Hi, everyone! I’m Tao Hu and I recently graduated from Xi'an Jiaotong University with a bachelor of science in mathematics and applied mathematics. I am very interested in the mathematics behind real-world operations, and I hope to apply my mathematical abilities to real-world problems.
UC Berkeley is widely regarded as one of the best public universities in the world. Its academic prestige, strong industry ties and inclusive environment drew me to apply for the Berkeley Global Access Program Spring 2025 semester. I came to Berkeley to be in a place where I could truly apply my mathematical abilities to the real world.
I took four graduate courses: Mathematical Programming II (INDENG 262B), Special Topics in Industrial Engineering and Operation Research (INDENG 290)—focusing on stochastic optimization—Numerical Solution of Differential Equations (MATH 228B) and Applied Stochastic Process II (INDENG 263B). These courses taught me how pure mathematics—including analysis and probability—can be applied to machine learning problems and fluid mechanics.
In my Berkeley classes, my classmates and I came from different parts of the world and had very different life experiences. I learned a lot and broadened my horizons by discussing problems with my classmates.
I came to Berkeley to be in a place where I could truly apply my mathematical abilities to the real world.
I had many fantastic experiences outside of the classroom. I joined the Cal Running Club, which made it possible for me to explore many places around campus. I went sightseeing in different parts of California, including San Francisco, Los Angeles and Palo Alto. On one unforgettable day, I ran seven miles to the Richmond Ferry Terminal, took the ferry to San Francisco and had a great time sightseeing.
My top five things to do in Berkeley and San Francisco are
visiting Silicon Valley
visiting the Golden Gate Bridge
attending academic conferences
joining clubs
taking a picture with Oski, the UC Berkeley mascot
From the best university in California to the best university in Texas, I learned to appreciate cultural differences and to think in a broader and more comprehensive way.
Currently, I am an incoming Ph.D. student at The University of Texas at Austin. From the best university in California to the best university in Texas, I learned to appreciate cultural differences and to think in a broader and more comprehensive way.
I expect to graduate from my Ph.D. program in five years, but given the rapid transformation of technology, I do not yet know which career path I will choose. However, I know that I will pursue a career in research because I have always enjoyed the process of exploring the unknown.
My advice to future BGA students would be to stay open-minded about your life at Berkeley. Do not focus only on your schoolwork. By giving yourself some time to relax, you may discover your true interests and ambitions here.
