Editor’s note

Welcome to Gen Z Weekly, our new column dedicated to showcasing the voices and experiences of Generation Z in Shenzhen and beyond. We’ve created this space to share authentic, youth-driven narratives that reflect the energy and perspectives of today’s young people. Through Gen Z Weekly, expect to hear directly from international students and Chinese youth about their campus lives, personal journeys, and thoughtful insights.

Zhang Yu

JeniZhang13@163.com

CHEN TAT LIM, a student from Bangkok, Thailand, has embraced the fast-paced, innovative environment of Shenzhen as he pursues a degree in optoelectronics engineering at the Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen (HIT SZ).

Drawn by the city’s reputation as a global technology hub, Lim has found not only academic rigor but also a dynamic community that fuels his passion for engineering and cross-cultural exchange.

“The most attractive aspect about Shenzhen is not about the city itself — it’s about the tech ecosystem where innovation happens every day and how people here evolve and adapt,” Lim said. “Being here allows me to develop my skills and see how engineering can shape the future.”

Lim, soon to enter his third year, initially considered studying in other Chinese cities but ultimately chose Shenzhen for its entrepreneurial spirit and access to cutting-edge research. “It’s a place where you feel like you’re part of something bigger, something that’s building tomorrow,” he explained.

Beyond academics, Lim has immersed himself in Shenzhen’s diverse culture. An avid musician and athlete, he plays the piano and guitar and enjoys sports like basketball and badminton. He also values the opportunity to connect with peers from around the world. “There are so many international students here, and it’s amazing to learn from different cultures,” he said.

The city’s reputation as the “Silicon Valley of Hardware” has also influenced Lim’s career aspirations. He has participated in research projects under the guidance of supportive professors, gaining hands-on experience in photonics and real-world applications. “The professors here are kind and open-minded,” Lim noted. “They encourage us to explore and link our interests to real-world problems.”

Despite Shenzhen’s fast-paced lifestyle, Lim views the pressure as a motivator. “It’s intense, but it’s a good kind of pressure,” he said. “It pushes you to keep up and grow.”

Lim also spoke highly of Shenzhen’s cultural diversity and welcoming environment. “I’ve been here for almost two years, and I feel like I’ve adapted to the culture, the food, the fast pace,” he said. “This is where I belong. It’s a place where young people from all over China and the world come together, help each other, and grow.”

He mentioned that his half-Malaysian background gave him a foundation in Chinese, but living in Shenzhen has significantly improved his language skills. “I don’t feel much of a language barrier in daily life,” he said, though he acknowledged that technical terminology can still be challenging.

Lim also appreciates the city’s balance between urban innovation and natural beauty. “Shenzhen isn’t just about tech — it’s also a place where you can explore nature, go hiking, or relax at the beach,” he said. “It’s amazing how such a big tech city can offer so much variety.”

After graduation, Lim hopes to stay in Shenzhen, either pursuing a master’s degree or entering the tech industry. “This city is perfect for young people who want to challenge themselves,” he said.

For other international students considering Shenzhen, Lim’s advice is simple. “Be open-minded, get involved, and don’t fear the language barrier. Shenzhen has so much to offer — tech meetups, cultural events, nature spots. It’s a place where you can truly discover yourself.”

Describing the city in three words, Lim called Shenzhen “inspirational, straightforward, and foreigner-friendly.” For him, it’s more than a place to study — it’s a launchpad for the future.