Sofia Lai Velasquez Shum’s story is one of curiosity, passion, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Born in Costa Rica in 2003, Sofia has always had a natural inclination towards learning and exploring new horizons. Now a junior in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI, JI hereafter), Sofia is living a dream she has nurtured since childhood.

The 2024 University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI，JI hereafter) Commencement Ceremony took place at Jing Jing Auditorium of the SJTU Minhang campus on August 9. The ceremony, hosted by JI Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education Gang Zheng, was attended by Class of 2024 graduates, parents, faculty and staff members, as well as invited guests.

The University of Michigan – Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI, JI hereafter) hosted a grand gala at Long Bin Building for the Class of 2024 undergraduate graduates, marking a beautiful end to their incredible journey at the joint institute.