To further advance innovation and entrepreneurship education and enhance students’ competition literacy and practical capabilities, SEM held the third session of its “Jingcui Innovation & Entrepreneurship” lecture series on November 5 in Donghuan 101. Li Xiu’e, faculty lead for discipline-based competitions in the Department of Economics, and Zhao Ruitong (Class Engineering Management 2201) were invited as keynote speakers to share competition experience and practical tips with students.
At the start of the lecture, Li discussed discipline-based competitions from three aspects: their importance, the value of participation, and key points for effective preparation. She noted that engaging in competitions helps students strengthen both academic and practical skills, promote the integration of theory and practice, and deepen university–industry collaboration. Competition experience can also be a strong plus for graduate recommendation and job applications. Li emphasized the importance of carefully reviewing competition guidelines, selecting topics strategically, prioritizing innovation, and making full use of faculty mentorship while maintaining efficient communication within the team. Drawing on her advising experience, she encouraged students to participate actively, be willing to try, and accumulate experience through continuous practice.
Zhao Ruitong, based on her personal competition journey, highlighted the value of taking part in various contests. She shared her achievements in China’s three major innovation and entrepreneurship competitions, and noted that competition participation and student leadership roles can reinforce each other by significantly improving organizational, coordination, and interpersonal skills. She also stressed the importance of identifying one’s strengths and distinctive advantages. Zhao introduced key preparation strategies, including comprehensive information collection, proactively identifying and solving problems, and maintaining effective teamwork and collaboration. She concluded by encouraging students to take the initiative, believe in themselves, and grow through competition.
The successful completion of the third session delivered practical competition know-how and valuable experience to students, while also providing a platform for faculty sharing and peer support. Closely aligned with SEM’s core approach to innovation-oriented student development, the lecture injected lasting momentum into the School’s innovation and entrepreneurship education in practice.
