Personal Introduction

Su Pengrui, Class of 2020, Diligentia College, School of Management and Economics , Economics Major

Shakespeare once said, “Youth is a raw material that will one day be shaped into form.” On the canvas of youth, one senior has boldly left his mark at CUHK-Shenzhen through his unique journey. From academics and volleyball to emceeing, Su Pengrui has poured his sweat and talent into every corner of university life, vividly embodying what it means to live a full and spirited youth. He is the 2024 Outstanding Graduate of Diligentia College — Su Pengrui.

A true dream-chaser never halts before obstacles nor changes course due to momentary confusion. In his freshman year, driven by a desire to understand the logic of the global economic order from a macro perspective, Su Pengrui chose to major in Economics. To him, economics is more than just a discipline — it is a way of thinking and a lens for observing the world. “This major satisfies my curiosity, and learning about financial tools helps me stay grounded and become a part of the economic system.” The deeper the understanding, the higher one climbs. After four years of study, Su completed an economics thesis, transforming once-distant academic articles into nourishment for his growth. He now interprets economic issues through academic and quantitative lenses and views global phenomena with a causal analytical mindset. In today’s era of interdisciplinary integration, he also explored cross-disciplinary research by participating in an ecological science project, applying his economics knowledge, and completing a research paper as the first author. His unique thinking even caught the attention of the University of Chicago, where he will continue to pursue his academic dreams.

Within the Diligentia College community, Su is not only a stellar student but also a strong team leader. He actively participated in student organizations, joined the volleyball team, and served as captain of the football team. The jumps, spikes, shouts, and cheers — each effort on the field left an indelible mark on his heart. Under his leadership, the college football and volleyball teams achieved outstanding results, cultivating a powerful sense of belonging and unity among all members. Looking back, he says, “I felt deeply connected with my teammates, and on our chests, the emblem of Diligentia College shone brightly.”

As a well-rounded “slash youth,” Su also excelled in hosting events. As one of the school’s and college’s core emcees, his warm and resonant voice brought energy and spirit to events such as the Mid-Autumn Gala, the Club Festival Closing Ceremony, and the Diligentia Spring Festival Gala. From his nervous debut as a backup host four years ago to calmly handling unexpected situations in his final performance, he has grown tremendously — gaining both confidence and adaptability. “After that event, I told myself, ‘Hey, you really did grow again!’”

On Su Pengrui’s path of growth, the professors and mentors at CUHK-Shenzhen have been a source of constant warmth, support, and guidance — academically, personally, and in planning for the future. Reflecting on this, he often describes it with the poetic phrase: “Like the rain of spring, like sitting in a gentle breeze.” These simple yet profound words capture the nurturing impact his mentors had on him. Forming true friendships with teachers has been one of his most valuable takeaways. Another key mantra he lives by is: “Cherish time.” To his juniors, he offers this heartfelt wish: “May you live each year in the spring breeze, treasuring and enjoying your golden years.” Perhaps the true value and meaning of these four university years lie precisely in growing with strength and grace, just like Su Pengrui.