Linjie Ying, a first-generation college student from a small mountain town in China, is making significant strides in computational mathematics as a Ph.D. student at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Her academic journey, which began in a boarding school due to her family’s limited resources, has taken her from her rural upbringing to advanced research in the United States.
Ying’s parents, who worked hard making bamboo furniture, were unable to provide extensive educational guidance, having only completed elementary school themselves. Despite these challenges, Ying credits her education with broadening her worldview and fostering her independence. “Each stage of my education brought me to a bigger city and introduced me to new people, ideas, and experiences,” she said.
After obtaining her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in computational mathematics from Zhejiang University in China, Ying chose to pursue her doctoral studies at UNLV. A key factor in her decision was the opportunity to work with her faculty mentor, Professor Pengtao Sun, who has praised her intellectual abilities and commitment to her research.
“Since joining our program, she has made substantial research contributions and has received fellowships and scholarships from the Graduate College in successive years,” Sun said, highlighting her growth as an independent researcher.
Ying’s research focuses on developing numerical methods for fluid-structure interaction problems, which occur when fluids interact with moving or deformable structures, such as blood flow through vessels or air movement around aircraft wings. Her work aims to create accurate simulations that can analyze these complex interactions, especially as structures change shape over time.
“Reliable simulations depend on reliable mathematics,” Ying emphasized, explaining that her research contributes to creating better tools for scientists and engineers. By improving the numerical methods behind these simulations, she aims to facilitate more informed designs in various engineering fields.
Ying also reflected on her experiences as a first-generation college student, offering advice to peers. “Build connections with your classmates, advisors, and professors as much as possible,” she advised, encouraging others to seek out support beyond family resources. She emphasized the importance of mentorship and community in navigating academic challenges.
Her journey symbolizes the potential for education to transform lives, as she moves from her hometown to an advanced research program. Looking ahead, Ying hopes to become a mentor herself, providing the same level of care and support she has received from Dr. Sun to future students.
