Abstract:
In this storytelling seminar, I will share my personal experiences in some turning points while advancing my professional career. Some examples include studying graduate school abroad, finding a visionary thesis advisor and choosing an emerging research topic, joining industry or academia after graduation, etc. For undergraduate students, finding your passion and starting research early will help you define your life goal. For graduate students, finding an exciting research topic makes a big difference to your future career. Dare to be a pioneer, rather than a follower, and make an invention or a discovery that is stimulating and useful to others. Several Nobel laureates in optics and photonics are such outstanding examples. For junior faculty, building up your networks and getting early professional recognitions, such as society fellowship, will propel your future career development.