
知识、成长、发现
与爱的旅程
--留学生优毕风采--

Saira Bano
Nationality: Pakistan
College: College of Life Science and Technology
In 2019, Saira Bano embarked on a transformative journey to China, drawn by the country's unique blend of ancient traditions and modern development. Upon arriving in Shanghai, she was immediately captivated by the city's vibrant energy, where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. Her academic journey truly began at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), one of China’s most prestigious institutions.
Saira chose to pursue a doctoral degree at SJTU due to its outstanding global reputation and the ideal environment it offers for both academic and personal growth. The university's rigorous academic atmosphere and cutting-edge research facilities provided her with the perfect foundation to explore sustainable agricultural solutions and address greenhouse gas emissions.




At SJTU, Saira was fortunate to conduct research under the mentorship of Professor Zhang Xiaojun, whose dedicated guidance played a crucial role in shaping her academic journey. With the professor’s support and SJTU’s collaborative and resourceful academic environment, Saira was able to delve deeper into her research field. Her findings have been published in multiple prestigious academic journals, showcasing her scholarly contributions.
SJTU also provided Saira with valuable opportunities to engage with the global scientific community. By participating in international conferences and academic seminars, she was able to exchange ideas with distinguished scientists from around the world, broadening her academic horizons and enriching her research perspectives. Exposure to diverse viewpoints and collaboration with peers from different backgrounds have been instrumental in her growth as a researcher.

-01-
探索中国语言、
饮食和文化



Another equally memorable aspect of Saira's journey is her immersion in China's rich cultural heritage, particularly its culinary culture. As a person from Pakistan, Saira believes that food occupies a central position in social life, and the diversity of Chinese cuisine not only fascinates her but also brings her warmth. From tasting dumplings during the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) to enjoying the deliciousness of hotpot with friends, every meal has made her more aware of the profound cultural significance behind the food.
In addition to food, Saira also took the opportunity to immerse herself in Chinese art and traditions. She enrolled in basic Chinese courses, including Elementary Chinese I and Elementary Chinese II, which laid a strong foundation for her language skills. At the same time, she explored Chinese calligraphy, further deepening her connection to China’s artistic heritage. Furthermore, she studied Chinese culture courses, gaining a deeper understanding of the fascinating world of ancient Chinese folk music and traditional instruments. Saira was also fortunate to visit historic sites such as Xitang Water Town and Yu Garden, where she experienced the timeless beauty of traditional Chinese architecture. Through these cultural experiences, not only was her life in China enriched, but she also learned to cherish her own identity while embracing local customs and festivals.

-02-
在奇迹中漫游
发现中国的美





As a passionate traveler, Saira discovers that China's diverse natural landscapes are a source of endless wonder for her. Despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her travel, she still had the opportunity to visit many landmark attractions, such as the West Lake in Hangzhou, the "Avatar" Mountains in Zhangjiajie, and the misty peaks in Mount Huangshan Mountain. These places gave her a deeper understanding of China's natural beauty and rich history.
The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival was another unforgettable experience for her, where ice sculptures shone brightly under the winter night lights. Although Saira has visited many places in China, her journey is still incomplete, because she has not seen the Great Wall and the Terra Cotta Warriors in Xi'an, which occupy an important place in her future travel list.

-03-
从陌生人到灵魂伴侣:
一段在SJTU
诞生的爱情故事



During Saira's SJTU journey, one of the many blessings was particularly important and unexpected - she met her husband during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2022. At first, the uncertainty and challenges brought by the global pandemic ultimately led to a fateful adventure. It was on SJTU campus that Saira met her soulmate while immersed in academic pursuits.
In the vibrant academic environment of SJTU, their paths intersect and their lives are closely connected to each other. Saira met someone who shared her passion, values, and future vision with her, and they decided to get married and live happily ever after.
Looking back, Saira realized that meeting her husband at SJTU was not just a coincidence - it was the greatest blessing of her life. It was in this university, during her academic growth and personal exploration, that she found the person to share her dreams, love, and future with. The place where she grew up here has also become the place where she found a lifelong partner, for which she will always be grateful.

-04-
SJTU
塑造今天的Saira



When Saira looks back on her journey, she can see to what extent China has shaped who she is today. From the moment she stepped onto this land full of ancient wisdom and endless innovation, her life began to change. China has given her the courage to pursue greater dreams, the strength to overcome challenges, and the ability to excel in her field. SJTU provided her with academic tools and opportunities, while this vibrant country gifted her rich spiritual experiences.
Perhaps most importantly, this period has made her a visionary, resilient, and thoughtful woman. It enriched her career, brought love, and deepened her connection with her family. No matter where life takes her, Saira will forever engrave China and SJTU in her heart.