Recently, sixth-grade students at SHSID participated in their annual Career Day event. On this day, they visited enterprises, universities, and research institutions, experiencing firsthand the diversity and excitement of the professional world. This was a collision of knowledge and practice, a dialogue between youth and the future.

Exploring SenseTime: Feeling the Pulse of Artificial Intelligence

The first group entered SenseTime Group—a globally leading artificial intelligence platform company. From the entrance, where a bronze gong symbolizing honor and innovation greeted them, students felt as if they had stepped into a world brimming with wisdom and beckoning in the future.

Inside the exhibition hall, a massive screen showcased SenseTime's technological aspirations: being inclusive, flexible, open, advanced, and rapid. A video on the left revealed astonishing statistics: over 60,000 cameras connected daily, processing nearly 250 million objects. Students paused in awe at the scale and efficiency of AI technology. Further ahead, students explored satellite imagery analysis, weather forecasting systems, autonomous driving, smart security, the AI painting robot “Seconds,” and the virtual digital human “Ruying” … Each exhibit serves as a window, allowing students to glimpse how AI is quietly transforming our lives.

Exploring Cargill's R&D Center: Decoding the Food Industry Chain

The second group's visit to Cargill's R&D Center coincided with a special historical moment—both Shanghai High School and Cargill's R&D Center celebrate their 160th anniversaries this year. This shared resonance across centuries of educational and corporate development added profound significance to the visit.

Within the R&D center, staff showcased Cargill's innovative journey as a global food ingredient supplier. From fats and fructose in snacks to diverse flavor compounds, the systematic presentation helped students grasp how centuries of technological accumulation and innovation underpin every seemingly simple taste experience.The hands-on segment proved particularly captivating. Under staff guidance, students personally crafted lemon tea and decorated cookies. Piping frosting revealed the complexity of food modeling while showcasing the aesthetic appeal of culinary artistry.

This immersive experience at the forefront of food research & development allowed students to truly appreciate that every delicious meal on the table relies not only on the chef's meticulous preparation but also embodies the wisdom and dedication of food researchers. It is precisely this invisible support that collectively safeguards the deliciousness and safety of our food.

Visiting ShanghaiTech University: Igniting the Spark of Scientific Dreams

The third group of students embarked on a scientific exploration journey at ShanghaiTech University. The lecture “The Secrets of Crystals” brought abstract crystallography knowledge to life, sparking the students' keen interest in scientific research.

At the Soft Matter Micro/Nano Fabrication Laboratory and the Topological Physics Laboratory, researchers patiently explained the working principles and research applications of various advanced scientific instruments, allowing students to experience the charm of cutting-edge science up close. The most exciting part for the students was conducting the “Chemical Traffic Light” experiment hands-on at the Chemistry Teaching and Experiment Platform. Students diligently performed the procedure, witnessing the remarkable color changes in the solution as it was shaken. Through hands-on practice, they gained a deep understanding of the chemical principles behind redox reactions. One student reflected after the event: “This activity made me realize that science and chemistry are everywhere. We are not only learners but also future explorers.”

Exploring Yingke Recycling: Embracing the Mission for a Green Future

The fourth group visited Yingke Recycling Co., Ltd. to gain insights into environmental protection and recycling technology. At the building materials exhibition hall, students observed furniture and construction materials made from recycled plastics, witnessing firsthand the technological power of “turning waste into treasure.”

During the subsequent science lecture, the presenter explained the principles and industrial value of recycling technology in accessible terms. Startling statistics—only 7% of globally produced plastic products are recycled—sparked deep reflection among the students, highlighting the urgency of environmental action. One student reflected: “Moving forward, we must start with ourselves—remembering to remove caps and labels before discarding plastic bottles to contribute our part to environmental protection.” This visit not only broadened the students' horizons but also planted seeds for embracing a greener lifestyle.

Exploring Philips Health Living Lab: Experiencing Smart Wellness Innovations

Group five visited the Philips Health Living Lab, embarking on a journey of exploration into health and technology. Within the futuristic immersive space, the store manager introduced students to a range of high-tech household essentials, including a “glowing” skincare shaver and an intelligent electric toothbrush with automatic adjustment settings—each product radiating the brilliance of innovation.

During the interactive session, the store manager provided a detailed explanation of the professional “Brossage-Bass technique” for brushing teeth. This allowed students to master the correct method for dental care while gaining a deep understanding of the scientific principles behind daily oral hygiene. The most exciting part for the students was the role-playing game where they took turns acting as sales associates and consumers. In this simulated real-life scenario, they learned product knowledge, communication skills, and service concepts, experiencing firsthand the joys and challenges of a career in modern retail.

Unlock the Door to Life Sciences: Exploring the Human Organ Museum

The sixth group of students arrived at Fudan University's Human Organ Museum, embarking on a journey to explore the mysteries of life. The museum offered students a unique opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of human systems and anatomical concepts. From real human organs to displays of diseased tissues, these exhibits vividly showcased the structural features of organs while providing students with a tangible understanding of a doctor's daily work.

The museum guide provided clear explanations of each exhibit and delivered an insightful lecture on how diseases can lead to severe consequences. Through this visit, students found answers to long-standing questions about the human body and gained knowledge beyond what is taught in the classroom. This journey not only enriched the students' academic knowledge but also opened new doors for them to further explore the field of medicine.

This multi-disciplinary “Career Day” event, spanning technology, food, research, environmental protection, and health, not only broadened the students' horizons but also planted seeds of professional aspirations in their hearts. From AI intelligence to artisanal food craftsmanship, from scientific rigor to environmental stewardship, from health wisdom to the art of service—each visit was an enlightenment, each experience a step toward growth.

Career Day transcends a single day. It is a bridge connecting classrooms to the real world; a guiding light illuminating students' paths forward. Future scientists, engineers, food developers, environmental pioneers, health consultants... perhaps their aspirations began to take root quietly from this very day.

(Written by 6-5 Evy, Josie; 6-8 Alisa, Katie; 6-2 Max, Steven; 6-11 Alyssa; 6-3 Angela, Dora; Xinyu Ma

Pictures by G6 Teachers

Reviewed by Ms. Cheng Liyan, Shiyu Wu, Grace Gilmore)