After five years since graduation, three ECE Class of 2020 alumni finally had the chance to reconnect at our long-overdue reunion. What started as a simple idea to catch up turned into an afternoon filled with fascinating insights, future possibilities, and the kind of meaningful conversation that only comes from shared experiences and diverse career paths. It is amazing how much can change in five years. Luke Lu is pursuing his PhD, diving deep into microwave technology and MEMS design. Linghao Lyu has entered the world of chip design and testing, while I have been working as an AI scientist. Luke brought his partner along, making our gathering even more welcoming and fun. As 2020 graduates, we missed many traditional celebration opportunities due to the pandemic, so this reunion felt especially meaningful, a chance to finally celebrate our achievements and the paths we have each taken.
One of the most exciting aspects of our gathering was the knowledge sharing across our different fields. Luke opened our eyes to the incredible versatility of microwave technology, particularly in imaging applications. Who knew that the principles behind generating and receiving microwaves through MEMS design could be so fascinating? From Linghao, we gained insights into the intricate world of chip testing, a perspective that those of us in software and research rarely get to explore. These cross-industry discussions reminded us why diverse technical backgrounds make for such rich conversations. We did not just talk about our current work, we also explored future opportunities and potential collaborations. One particularly exciting discussion emerged when we discovered that two of us are tennis players. This led to brainstorming startup ideas that could combine our expertise in AI, microwave technology, and chip design with sports innovation. It is exactly the kind of creative thinking that happens when people with complementary technical skills and shared passions come together.
There was something particularly satisfying about enjoying premium dishes at Haidilao, the same restaurant we frequented as students, but now able to order items we could never afford back then. It was a small but meaningful reminder of how far we have all come professionally and personally. Our three to four hour gathering at Haidilao proved to be the perfect setting for deep conversation and genuine reconnection. Beyond technical discussions and future planning, we covered everything from career development tips to amusing conversations about optimizing credit card benefits, the kind of random but valuable knowledge sharing that happens between good friends. As graduates who faced unique challenges during our final academic year, this reunion provided the closure and connection we had been missing. We left with strengthened professional networks, potential collaboration ideas, and most importantly, renewed friendships.
A huge thank you to the APSC Alumni Activity Fund for making this reunion possible. Sometimes all it takes is a small catalyst to bring people together and create lasting connections. We are already planning our next gathering. The ECE Class of 2020 continues to prove that great things happen when diverse minds come together, whether in the classroom, the workplace, or over a hot pot dinner.
Submitted by Xu Fan, BASc '20
