Describe an unusual but interesting building you would like to visit
You know, ever since I first saw photos of the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing, I’ve been dying to visit it. Actually, I imagine standing in Tiananmen Square area, looking over at that massive oval structure — it’s like a giant egg floating on water.
Technically, it’s located right next to the Forbidden City, so the contrast is crazy. You have this centuries-old imperial palace, and right beside it sits a futuristic dome made of titanium and glass. When the sun hits it, the surface shimmers, and at night, it’s all lit up — almost like a spaceship that’s landed on a reflective pool. To me, that mix of ultra-modern materials and traditional surroundings is what makes it so unusual.
I guess what really interests me is how it challenges your expectations: in a place so steeped in history and tradition, you suddenly see this contemporary marvel. As a postgraduate student, let’s say, architecture and urban planning, so I’d love to go inside, walk through the water-lined corridors, and experience how the acoustics and design work in real life. Plus, watching an opera or a concert there would be an experience in itself because the auditorium is supposed to have amazing sound quality.
So yeah, I’d love to visit it not only to snap photos of the exterior, but also to appreciate how modern Chinese architects blend cutting-edge design with historical context.
- Why do some people choose to build houses by themselves?
Well, I think one of the main reasons people choose to build their own house is to save money. You know, when you hire a contractor or a developer, there are so many hidden fees and mark-ups, but if you do the work yourself—at least partially—you can significantly cut down on labour costs. Plus, there’s this huge sense of ownership and achievement that comes from literally putting your own sweat into the walls of your home. It’s kind of empowering to say, “Yeah, I built that,” instead of just moving into something someone else constructed.
- What factors do you consider when choosing a house or an apartment?
Well, to be honest, the very first thing I check is affordability — you know, the monthly rent, deposits, and estimated utility bills. As a student, I can’t really overstretch my budget. Next, I look at the commute: is there a direct bus or metro line to campus? Ideally, it shouldn’t take more than 20 or 30 minutes door-to-door. Oh, and I always factor in whether the lease terms are flexible — like a six-month contract instead of a year — since grad school schedules can change.
- Do you think a city's buildings affect its vibe or atmosphere?
Well, I definitely think a city’s buildings have a huge impact on its overall vibe. You know, when you walk through old hutongs in Beijing, the low-rise gray brick walls and narrow alleys almost make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. In contrast, the Pudong skyline in Shanghai—full of gleaming glass skyscrapers—gives off this ultra-modern, almost futuristic energy. So, the architectural style, from heritage courtyards to high-rise towers, really shapes how we perceive a city’s character and pace.
- Do you think old buildings should be preserved?
Well, I’d say old buildings absolutely should be preserved, you know? They’re like living textbooks of our history and culture. Take the hutongs in Beijing or the ancient city wall in Xi’an — once they’re gone, that tangible link to the past disappears too. Preserving these structures not only maintains a city’s unique identity but also attracts cultural tourism, which benefits the local economy. So, to be honest, I think it’s crucial we keep them intact and even restore them sensitively rather than tear them down.
Describe a person who shows his/her feelings very openly
There’s a professor in my department, Dr. Liu, who I really admire — not just for her academic knowledge, but also for how emotionally expressive she is. She teaches qualitative research methods, and I took one of her seminars last semester.
What really struck me was how open she was with her feelings, even in academic settings. When a student gave a thoughtful presentation, she didn’t just nod politely — she’d get genuinely moved and say things like “That gave me goosebumps.” And when she disagreed, she’d frown slightly and explain her reasoning, but never in a cold or distant way. You could always tell how she felt, and that made her classroom feel honest and human.
I guess that’s why students really connect with her. I personally felt more comfortable expressing my own uncertainties or asking difficult questions in her class. So yeah, I’d say her emotional openness makes her not just a great teacher, but also someone who builds real trust with others.
- Do you think it is good or bad for people to show feelings openly?
Hmm, I’d say it really depends on the situation. In personal relationships, showing emotions openly is often a sign of trust and authenticity, and it can bring people closer. But in professional or formal settings, being too emotional might be seen as unprofessional or distracting.
So I guess the key is emotional intelligence — knowing when and how to express feelings in a way that’s appropriate. Being open is good, but being thoughtful is even better.
- Who tend to show their feelings more openly, adults or children?
Hmm, it really depends on the context. In casual, family-oriented environments, adults might open up just as much as children—like when parents joke around at home or express pride at milestones. But in public or formal situations, children are typically more transparent. They’re not yet aware of workplace etiquette or peer pressure. As a postgraduate researcher, I’ve seen undergraduates spill their feelings in group projects without thinking, whereas my peers usually choose their words carefully so as not to seem too emotional. So I’d argue that while children generally wear their hearts on their sleeves, adults can be equally expressive if the setting feels safe and supportive.
Describe an interesting decision that you and your friend made together
Well, one of the most interesting decisions my friend and I ever made was actually a very spontaneous one. It happened last year, during the winter break, when both of us were feeling pretty burnt out from our coursework and research. We were having coffee after submitting our final papers, and, kind of jokingly, one of us said, “What if we just took a train somewhere remote for a few days?”
Surprisingly, we both got really excited about the idea. After a bit of discussion, we ended up booking a last-minute trip to a quiet town in the mountains — no itinerary, no plans, just the two of us and our backpacks. I guess the decision was about taking a short break from academic pressure and digital overload, and just letting ourselves breathe a little.
We made the decision together because, well, we were both in the same boat — tired, overwhelmed, and craving a bit of peace and nature. It wasn’t a carefully calculated decision or anything. In fact, that’s what made it interesting — the randomness of it, and how we both just said yes without overthinking.
Looking back, I think it was one of the most refreshing experiences I’ve had during my postgraduate life. We explored small villages, had long conversations, and even went a whole day without checking our phones — which, for two grad students, is kind of a big deal. It showed me how valuable spontaneity can be, especially when shared with someone who understands where you’re coming from.
- At what age do you think children can make decisions by themselves?
Hmm, that’s an interesting question. I’d say it really depends on the type of decision, but in general, I think children start developing a basic sense of independence around the age of 6 or 7. At that point, they can probably make small choices — like what to wear, or which toy to play with.
But if we're talking about more serious decisions, like managing money, choosing what to study, or making long-term plans, I’d say that doesn’t really happen until they’re teenagers — maybe around 14 or 15. Of course, even then, they still need guidance.
So yeah, I guess it’s not about one specific age, but more about the kind of decision and the child’s emotional maturity.
- What decisions can children make by themselves?
Well, I think younger children can usually make simple, everyday decisions — like what snacks they want, what games to play, or which clothes they prefer. These decisions help them develop confidence and a sense of control over their lives.
As they grow older, say in their early teens, they might start deciding how to manage their time, which hobbies to pursue, or even who to be friends with. Of course, they might not always make the best choices, but that’s part of the learning process.
To be honest, I think it’s important for parents and teachers to give children enough space to make age-appropriate decisions. That way, they gradually learn to take responsibility and think critically.
Describe a photo that you enjoy looking at
You know, there's a photo I really love looking at, mainly because it brings me such a strong sense of peace and comfort every time I see it. I often look at it when I feel overwhelmed with school work or just mentally exhausted from research. It instantly takes me back to a moment when everything felt calm and simple.
So the photo was taken a few years ago during a family trip to a small village in Yunnan Province. My dad took it early in the morning, right after sunrise. At the time, I was in my final year of undergraduate study, and it was, well, probably our last proper family trip before I moved away for grad school.
In the photo, you can see me, my parents, and my younger sister standing on a hilltop. The background is absolutely stunning — layers of misty mountains, soft golden light, and some terraced fields stretching out into the distance. We were all smiling, looking a little sleepy and windblown, but genuinely happy.
What I love most about it is that it captures a moment of stillness. It reminds me that even during busy and stressful times, there’s always a need to pause, breathe, and reconnect — with nature, with family, and with myself. So yeah, it’s not just a nice picture — it’s kind of like a reminder of what really matters.
- Why do many people like to share photos on social media platforms?
Well, I think there are a few reasons why people enjoy sharing photos online. First of all, social media is kind of like a personal diary — well but one that's public. People want to capture and share moments that are meaningful or visually appealing, whether it's a birthday, a vacation, or even just a nice meal.
Also, I guess it’s a way to feel connected to others. When you post a photo and people like it or comment on it, it gives you this little sense of validation or social interaction. For some, it’s also about self-expression — showing their personality, interests, or lifestyle through images.
And, to be honest, in today’s digital age, sharing photos has almost become second nature. It’s quick, easy, and, well, kind of addictive too.
- On what occasions do most people like to take photos?
Hmm, I’d say people usually take photos during special or memorable occasions — like birthdays, weddings, graduations, or while traveling. You know, moments that people don’t want to forget.
But nowadays, with smartphones being so convenient, people take photos all the time, even in daily life — like snapping a nice sunset, a cute pet, or even what they had for lunch. I guess it’s become a habit, and in some cases, a way to document and reflect on everyday life.
Personally, I tend to take photos when I travel or spend time with family and friends. Those are the moments I want to remember and revisit later, especially when things get stressful in academic life.