Registration for 2025 undergraduate students was held on August 26. Over 160 new students arrived on SJTU's Xuhui campus to embark on their new journey. The college rolled out a series of welcome activities to warmly receive the new cohort. 

On August 28, Professor Chen Fangruo, Dean of Antai College of Economics and Management at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), delivered the highly anticipated “Dean’s Inaugural Lecture” to the incoming freshmen, an annual tradition that formally marks the beginning of their academic journey at Antai.

Dean Chen reflected on SJTU’s rich historical heritage and Antai’s evolution, highlighting its current achievements and core strategic vision: “Cross-Disciplinary Integration and Unity of Knowledge and Action.”

Drawing on his personal journey—from undergraduate studies at SJTU and advanced education in the U.S. to professional roles at leading global business schools—Dean Chen shared invaluable advice for university life. He emphasized the importance of time management, open-mindedness, and diligence. He also encouraged students to cultivate independent thinking, engage with cutting-edge research, and maintain a consistent exercise routine.

Dean Chen expressed his hope that students would gain a deeper understanding of the era, their majors, and themselves through continuous learning and practice, embarking on their new journey with passion, determination, and a proactive spirit. The lecture resonated deeply with both students and parents attending online.

Here’s what some freshmen had to say:

• Dong Shuo (Class 2510): "The Dean's lecture was enlightening. The principle of 'Cross-Disciplinary Integration, Unity of Knowledge and Action' made me realize that economics and management are not just about knowledge accumulation but also social responsibility. The college's long history, which dates back to its establishment at Nanyang Public School in 1901, is profoundly inspiring. This lecture was an intellectual awakening and a spiritual baptism. I will strive to become an Antai student with both professional competence and social awareness."

• Hu Yunrui (Class 2511): "The Dean was both eloquent and approachable. Learning about the long history of SJTU’s Xuhui Campus and the profound meaning of the college’s philosophy was truly touching. I am eager to delve into the intersection of economics, management, and other disciplines here at resource-rich Antai, and ultimately contribute to our country’s development. Hearing about the Dean's own experience as one of SJTU’s early double-degree students over 40 years ago has further motivated me to pursue excellence with perseverance."

• Wang Yizhi (Class 2512): "The Dean’s presentation was charismatic and engaging. I was particularly fascinated by the story behind the naming of 'Antai'—the historical context of the ten-million-US-dollar support was truly visionary. His lecture reinforced the importance of adopting a developmental perspective—embracing uncertainty and staying open to future possibilities. It was also inspiring to learn about the critical role of time management, and even coincidental to discover that both the Dean and I share habits like nightly reflection and a passion for swimming!"

• Zhang Xinyu (Class 2512): "The Dean’s First Lecture greatly eased the initial confusion and curiosity we felt as newcomers. It not only illuminated Antai’s illustrious history but also helped outline our path ahead in university. Hearing about the dedication and perseverance of generations of Antai people filled me with pride and a stronger sense of belonging. The practical advice on time management and taking tasks seriously cleared much of my uncertainty, reminding me that university is about cultivating thinking patterns and comprehensive skills—not just acquiring knowledge. It was both a spiritual awakening and a call to action."

• Tan Yingyue (Class 2511): "Three key insights from the Dean stood out to me: Antai’s four-decade journey of growth has been driven by self-discipline and making the most of every opportunity; the College’s double-degree and interdisciplinary programs are robust and full of possibilities; and to honor this legacy, we must proactively manage our time—starting the day earlier, completing tasks ahead of schedule, and embracing self-discipline wholeheartedly. I am committed to staying grounded and diligent as I work toward becoming a proud representative of Antai."

With the Dean’s lecture setting the tone for the academic year, the Class of 2025 is now ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that await them at Antai.