Zongyan Ouyang
- Course: Civil Engineering with Transport BEng
Zongyan Ouyang is a graduate of the University of Leeds who studied Civil Engineering with Transport BEng at the School of Civil Engineering and the Insitute for Transport Studies.
Leading reputation
As an international student who entered the SWJTU-Leeds joint school through the Chinese college entrance examination, Zongyan Ouyang was impressed by the strong reputation of the two universities in the field he was working in.
I've had the opportunity to strengthen my cross-cultural communication skills, which is very important for my future work in a globalised work environment.
“The Institute for Transport Studies at the University of Leeds (UoL) is one of the best in the UK in the fields of transport planning, numerical modelling and traffic engineering, while the Southwest Jiaotong University is ranked among the top universities in China in the field of civil engineering, especially railway engineering
“Through this international co-operation programme, I've had the opportunity to strengthen my cross-cultural communication skills, which is very important for my future work in a globalised work environment.”
Broad curriculum
As a SWJTU-Leeds joint school student, Zongyan completed his first three years of undergraduate study at Southwest Jiaotong University in China before transferring to Leeds for his final year of undergraduate study.
The course presented Zongyan with an opportunity to delve into a wide spectrum of topics and pursue his passion for civil engineering.
He said: “The best thing about this course is that apart from the rigorous training in civil engineering through lectures, coursework and a final project, students are also exposed to some basic economic knowledge through courses such as transport planning and modelling. You’re given a broader perspective on the needs and operations of the entire transport engineering system.
"The individual research project was the module which had the most impact for me. My individual research project was to use machine learning algorithms to predict the ultimate capacity of Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) steel bolted connections, which are manufactured using 3D printing methods.
“The mechanical properties of the bolted connection observed in the experiments are quite different from those of the conventional high strength steel connection, and the existing design specifications are not able to predict its strength well, so the machine learning approach can be used to predict its performance.
“As an undergraduate student specialising in civil engineering, the most fascinating and challenging aspect of this project was the writing and running of the machine learning code, which is something I've not been exposed to in other modules in this subject. In addition, my supervisor provided me with a lot of constructive advice and encouragement during this period, and gave me direction for my subsequent research work, which is why I loved this course so much.”
Impressive facilities
For Zongyan, the teaching and facilities at the University of Leeds were impressive.
He said: “Leeds has one of the four largest research libraries in the UK, the Brotherton Library, which provides a wealth of physical and electronic materials to meet the learning and research needs of students. In addition, the University has a comprehensive range of on-campus facilities, including academic buildings, halls of residence, commercial banks, theatres and sports facilities, providing students with comprehensive support for their studies and life.”
Further study
After finishing his undergraduate studies at Leeds, Zongyan has decided to pursue a Masters and PHD studies.
He said: “I developed a strong interest in and knowledge base of potentially sustainable new materials for infrastructure development, such as the use of WAAM steel in freshly constructed buildings, which I researched for my dissertation, and which inspired me to pursue my studies and research. In addition, the independent learning and critical thinking skills I developed during my undergraduate studies will serve me well throughout my life.”
Zongyan featured on the mobile screen of his classmate during their graduation from the SWJTU-Leeds joint school.
Loving Leeds
Zongyan described living in Leeds as an enriching experience, characterized by a vibrant mix of cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities.
He said: “The city offers students a dynamic urban environment with a strong academic presence, thanks to its four universities and diverse student population. It boasts a bustling city centre with a wide array of shops, restaurants and nightlife, offering ample opportunities for socialising and entertainment.
“Furthermore, Leeds is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, offering a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. With excellent transport links to other parts of the UK, Leeds serves as a gateway to exploring the wider country while providing a supportive and stimulating environment for students to grow and learn.”
Cutting-edge collaborations
As a recent graduate, Zongyan has no hesitation in recommending Leeds to other students considering studying civil engineering with transport.
Leeds is known for its commitment to research and innovation in civil engineering, which translates into opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge projects and collaborations.
He said: “The University offers a comprehensive and challenging curriculum that not only covers the fundamental principles of civil engineering but also delves deeply into the specialized field of transport. The course material is delivered by knowledgeable and experienced faculty, and the practical aspects of the course, such as field trips and hands-on projects, provide invaluable real-world experience.
“Leeds is known for its commitment to research and innovation in civil engineering, which translates into opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge projects and collaborations.
“The University's strong industry connections and partnerships can open doors to internships and career prospects upon graduation. Moreover, Leeds is a vibrant city with plenty to offer in terms of culture, entertainment and lifestyle, making your time as a student all the more enjoyable and enriching. The University's campus facilities are top-notch, and the support services provided help and ensured a smooth transition into university life and beyond.”
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