My journey in China began in 2014 when I traveled from Uganda to pursue a Master's degree in Computer Applications Technology at Shenyang Aerospace University. Shenyang, located in a cold, wintry province of Liaoning, presented me with my first experience of snow—a memorable and exciting contrast to the warm climate of my home country. The university environment, the supportive teachers, and the friendly locals made my time in the north particularly enriching. I graduated in January 2017 with fond memories and a solid academic foundation.

Following my graduation, I decided to immerse myself further in Chinese culture and enrolled in a local college in Zibo City to study the Chinese language for about five months. This period not only improved my language skills but also deepened my appreciation for the culture and traditions of China.

Eager to continue my academic journey, I searched for PhD opportunities and was thrilled to receive the South China University of Technology (SCUT) International Scholarship for Excellence. I reached out to Professor Huang in the School of Software Engineering, South Chian University of Technology, who graciously accepted me as his student. In September 2017, I moved to Guangzhou to begin my PhD, marking my first foray into evolutionary optimization algorithms, specifically focusing on search-based test case generation—a sub-branch of search-based software engineering.

Life at SCUT was vibrant and welcoming. The campus community was friendly, and I found a balance between my studies and recreational activities, such as playing football. The climate in southern China was a stark contrast to the north, with mild winters and no snowfall, increasingthe diversity of my experiences in China.

Under Professor Huang's mentorship, I attended numerous conferences that broadened my knowledge and network within the field. Initially, I struggled with writing and publishing research papers.But with his guidance, I successfully fought off these challenges and published my work. Though the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic was a particularly trying time, the Chinese government's swift response ensured our safety. The support of my labmates during this period was invaluable.

Despite the challenges, including the pandemic, my time at SCUT was immensely rewarding. I developed a deep understanding of my research area, gained invaluable academic experiences, and formed lasting friendships. I graduated in June 2024, culminating witha decade of academic and personal growth in China.

Reflecting on my 10-year journey, I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that shaped me both as a scholar and an individual. My time in China has been transformative, leaving me with a wealth of knowledge, cherished memories, and a profound appreciation for the country and its people.

研究团队介绍

实验室必修课

实验室精神

总编：黄翰

责任编辑：雷墨鹥兮

文字：Stuart

图片：Stuart

校稿：陈嘉慧

时间：2024年7月16日