Interview with Tianliang

This time it was a conversation with Tianliang. In this conversation, we highlighted the relationship between education and work from the perspective of a law student who is eager for continuous learning and professional growth. It reflects on how education influences career choices and lays the foundation for personal and professional development, while also recognizing the limitations of academic learning in dealing with real-world challenges.

Tianliang chose law as a major, inspired by family members' careers in the field. This choice highlights the role of personal influence in academic decision-making. Family is one of the major factors in future career decisions.

In addition, Tianliang also emphasized the importance of the university itself. He emphasized the impact of rankings and geographical location on school selection, as these factors affect career prospects and personal preferences.

Regarding the relationship between learning and work, Tianliang acknowledged that there is a gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, especially in their field of law. They pointed out that while legal education is theoretical in nature, actual legal work often requires skills and insights beyond classroom learning. Leadership roles in extracurricular activities, such as organizing activities through the student union, help to develop leadership and social skills, bridging the gap between education and work.

The article also reflects on the broader purpose of education, which is not just preparation for a specific job, but rather fostering a broader intellectual curiosity. Individuals’ self-directed learning in science, engineering, and history demonstrates their commitment to becoming a well-rounded polymath.

Overall, the interviews describe education as an important foundation that provides both theoretical knowledge and opportunities for personal growth. However, the transition to work requires additional practical experience, leadership skills, and adaptability—qualities that are often honed outside of the classroom. This balanced view highlights the importance of combining academic learning with real-world experience for well-rounded development.