Living Museum of Learning
Looking Beyond the Scoreboard
Albert's mother shared the outstanding university entrance examination results from his high school.
Like many parents with children approaching graduation, she asked a thoughtful question:
"Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and other emerging engineering fields are very popular today. Considering the changing world, what do you think Albert should study?"
It was a reasonable question.
Many families naturally begin by asking which major is "the best."
The day before, I had attended a keynote on AI for Education by Derek Haoyang Li, Founder of Squirrel AI Learning.
Many years earlier, I had worked closely with Derek while tutoring his twin sons, Marius and Lucas, one-on-one for more than five years.
Now, Derek was leading international efforts in AI education, serving as Chair of the IEEE Artificial Intelligence Education Large Model Standards Working Group.
His journey reminded me that extraordinary careers rarely begin with chasing fashionable majors.
They begin with curiosity, relentless thinking, and a commitment to solving meaningful problems.
So instead of recommending a specific university program, I shared something much simpler.
I told Albert's family:
"Vision matters."
"Learn from people like Derek."
"I knew him long before the titles and international recognition."
"His mind never stopped thinking—thinking, and thinking again."
Then I added something I hope Albert will remember:
"Don't focus only on scores, rankings, or prestigious universities. Those are often the natural results of pursuing something meaningful."
The conversation quietly shifted.
It was no longer about choosing a major.
It became about choosing a direction for a life.
A university major is important.
But it is not a destination.
It is a tool.
Students who spend all their energy chasing admission often discover that the race simply begins again after they arrive.
Students who cultivate curiosity, independent thinking, and the courage to solve difficult problems carry those qualities wherever they go.
Technology will continue to evolve.
Today's hottest field may not remain tomorrow's.
But the habit of deep thinking never goes out of date.