From vision to reality, from anticipation to arrival—

This was the day EIT had envisioned for five years.

On August 24, beneath the radiant late-summer sun, the permanent campus of EIT joyfully welcomed its inaugural class of undergraduate students.
Welcome, EITans! This is where our story begins.

From early morning, the campus hummed with anticipation. The lobby of the building was vibrant with warmth and activity.

Among the first to arrive was Yizhong Ge from Zhenhai High School of Zhejiang, who came with his father before 8 a.m.—making him the very first student to check in. He brought along his camera, eager to capture every moment of being a “founding student.”

“Ningbo is my hometown. Even though EIT is so close to my home, I still wanted to come early to see the place I’ll call home for the next four years,” Yizhong shared. “I’m truly excited to begin my scientific research dreams here at EIT.”

Junyi Chen, from Lishui, Zhejiang, arrived with full support from his family — his parents, grandmother, uncle, and three younger brothers. His mother said proudly that he is the pride for the whole family. Bringing his brothers, she added, was about setting an example for the next generation.

President Shiyi Chen, member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, was on hand to greet students and families at the check-in area. “We’re glad you’re here. Welcome to EIT!” he said warmly.

Some students surrounded by extended family, cars packed with heartfelt advice and good wishes; others travel alone by train, carrying the confidence and hopes of their families from afar.

Among them was Quanshu Yao from Huzhou, Zhejiang, who convinced his parents he could make the trip on his own. To him, independence was 'the first lesson of university and an essential part of growing up.'

Carrying two luggage with a curious smile, Yao navigated the check-in process smoothly with help from volunteers. He left with a red student ID and a campus card—symbols of a new identity and the beginning of a unique four-year journey.

Next stop: home for the next four years.

“Welcome home!” called out Siming College mentors, who waited by the residence halls. A thoughtfully prepared “welcome kit” and a ceremonial photo helped kindle an instant sense of belonging.

Each undergraduate student enjoys a four-bedroom, two-bath suite, featuring a private space alongside a spacious shared common area and bathroom.

Roommates from various cities came together for the first time—from this moment onward, their stories will intertwine within this supportive living community.

In the afternoon, university leadership—including Bo Jin, Secretary of the Party Committee, and Dongxiao Zhang, Member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering and Executive Vice President & Provost—toured the residence halls, chatting with students. They asked where they were from, how they were settling in, and made everyone feel welcome.

As the day unfolded, small groups of students set out with campus maps in hand. They wandered past sun-dappled lakes, under graceful arches, and paused for photos at the iconic library. Every corner of campus seemed to brighten with their presence.

Later, at the “Discover Your Major” session, freshmen circled up with principal investigators and PhD students for deep conversations. Professors shared research breakthroughs, and the journey ahead.

Then the Zone B laboratories turned curiosity into clarity. For many, seeing high-end equipment and feeling the culture of inquiry in person sparked new inspiration.

As evening set in, the campus glowed with connection.

Icebreaking games at the student center broke down barriers with laughter. What began as shy self-introductions soon became easy collaboration.

The Siming College welcome banquet felt like a family gathering. Under soft lights and music, students, faculty, and principal investigators shared a meal and dreams around the table.

Chen Zhangxing, Dean of Siming College and member of six national academies, addressed the inaugural class on behalf of the entire EIT community: “Siming College is more than a residential place—it’s a community where ideas meet, cultures blend, and minds grow. It will be your strongest support.”

From day to night, from strangers to friends—The Orientation Day marked the opening page of 74 unique stories. It represents 74 curious minds, 74 journeys begun, and EIT’s first chapter.

To all founding students: May you explore the world, find your tribe, and become the truest version of yourselves. Welcome home!