Moving Forward Gently, Deciding with Clarity: Finding Your Direction in an Uncertain Future By Dean Chi-Ching Kuo, College of Engineering .

As graduation approaches, many students find themselves standing at an important crossroads in life. Transitioning from a familiar campus to an unknown workplace or advanced studies naturally brings about both imagination and anxiety regarding the future. When life is about to shift from a stable learning environment to a challenging career phase, feeling uneasy and directionless is almost inevitable. In this interview, Dean Chi-Ching Kuo of the College of Engineering shares his choices and insights across different stages of life, offering advice for graduates about to embark on a new journey.

Staying Flexible Amid Change: Try "Principled Compliance"

"What is your dream?" This is a common conversation topic, and it was also the exact question Dean Kuo was asked by his advisor both when he entered and graduated from his Ph.D. program. However, life is not a linear journey; internal states, interpersonal interactions, and societal trends all influence our ultimate choices. Facing life's transitions, Dean Kuo suggests keeping an open mind first—accumulating experience through various attempts and avoiding being overly calculating or making hasty switches. Therefore, rather than rushing to set a rigid direction for oneself, Dean Kuo believes it is better to stay open and gradually explore and refine one's path through different opportunities.

Using himself as an example, his step-by-step and down-to-earth personality allowed him to build trust and earn opportunities over time. However, the Dean particularly reminds us that this kind of "compliance" does not mean "blind obedience" without opinions. While accepting suggestions, one must still maintain flexible judgment and self-protection capabilities to find a suitable place to settle in reality.

From Exploration to Elimination: Clarifying Direction Through Trial

"At the crossroads of life, feeling lost is inevitable. Before determining a clear path, rather than rushing to make a decision, the Dean recommends using the "method of elimination" to gradually clarify direction. Calm down, listen, and observe how well you adapt to different environments, then eliminate unsuitable options through trial and error. While exploring, the Dean also encourages students to try diverse opportunities, noting: "Go ahead and try any competitions or certification exams out there!" Engaging in competitions, earning certifications, and pursuing other diverse experiences enriches one's knowledge and cultivation. This not only deepens self-awareness regarding interests and abilities but also progressively builds confidence for the future, paving the way for upcoming careers.

The Power of Good Connections! Sparking Opportunities Through Interaction

"In addition to personal effort, Dean Kuo highlights the importance of interpersonal relationships in career development. Reflecting on his own journey—from his first job being recommended by a master's program senior, to receiving appreciation from his supervisor at ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute), to the guidance and inspiration from his Ph.D. professor—every major turning point in his life was closely connected to mentors and benefactors. These opportunities often stem from daily interactions and long-term cultivation rather than happening by chance. Therefore, he emphasizes that students should build positive relationships with others, which not only increases the chances of being seen and promoted, but also provides valuable guidance and support from others' experiences when facing difficulties.

Graduation ≠ Unemployment! Learn to Coexist Peacefully with All Possibilities

"Addressing the "graduation equals unemployment" anxiety that many graduates often fall into, Dean Kuo shares his problem-solving methods and mindset when dealing with pressure. During his Ph.D. studies and paper publications, he also faced immense pressure and challenges. He shares that he regulated his emotions and stabilized his mind through meditation. "Much of our stress comes from overthinking—we anticipate negative scenarios and fear things that haven't even happened." He points out that over-imagining the future is often the core reason affecting one's state of mind. Through meditation, thoughts can settle, allowing one to focus more on the present moment.

"Finally, Dean Kuo encourages all graduates with a line from Forrest Gump: "Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you're gonna get until you open it." Maintaining the courage to try amid uncertainty and being willing to take responsibility for the outcomes of your choices is a vital step toward the next chapter of life.