Yanshen Cai
- Position
- From: China
Studying: MSc Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering - [email protected]
- I speak
- English and Mandarin
- Studying
- MSc Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering
- From
- China
- Website
- Chat to Yanshen
Hello! I’m Yanshen Cai from China. I am currently studying for a Master's degree in Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering at the University of Leeds. Before coming to the University of Leeds, I completed my undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering at Zhejiang University of Technology in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. During this time, I developed a keen interest in the robotics, and decided that I wanted to pursue this field further in my postgraduate studies.
I chose to study at the University of Leeds for several reasons. Firstly, it has a strong academic foundation. The university's engineering programmes have strong links to practical and research applications, particularly in areas related to biomedical engineering — something that aligns perfectly with my interests. The second reason was the city of Leeds itself. It’s not as overwhelming as London, yet it has everything you could need, including art, history, green spaces and a lively student community. Thirdly, I found the diversity and inclusiveness here appealing.
Leeds is a multicultural city where you can learn from people with all kinds of backgrounds, perspectives and stories. I find that deeply inspiring.
The most exciting aspect of my course is the project-based learning approach. We often work in teams to solve real-world engineering problems. Working with classmates from around the world has helped me to grow both academically and personally. It has taught me to approach problems from multiple perspectives and to appreciate the creativity that stems from cultural diversity.
One of the things I love most about the university is the historic beauty of its campus.
The red-brick buildings, moss-covered walls and quiet courtyards make me feel connected to the generations of scholars who have walked here before me. Every time I pass the Parkinson Building, I am filled with awe — it truly feels like a place where knowledge comes to life.
Outside of my studies, I enjoy travelling, photography, watching films, listening to music and working out. Travelling is especially meaningful to me. I have sailed for hours to reach remote islands, hiked for over ten hours to climb mountains over 4,000 metres high. To me, travel is about more than just sightseeing — it's about finding another version of myself in unfamiliar places.
As I once wrote, “Sometimes, to understand yourself better, you have to meet yourself somewhere else”.
My favourite place in Leeds is the Leeds City Museum. I remember my first visit clearly. I posted online saying, “Living in a city with a real mummy is one of the coolest things ever.” Standing before that ancient artefact, I felt an almost spiritual connection with time. The museum made history feel tangible and alive.
Leeds is a vibrant yet peaceful city. It’s a place where you can enjoy modern life while still being in touch with nature and history. From a quiet afternoon in Hyde Park to an evening concert at Leeds Town Hall or a simple stroll through the city centre's arcades, there's always something to enrich and fulfil life here.
In hindsight, I can confidently say that choosing Leeds was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It has been a journey of growth, discovery and self-fulfilment. “Sometimes, the right decision doesn’t make life easier, but it makes life fuller.” Coming to Leeds was that kind of decision for me.
If you’re considering studying abroad, I would wholeheartedly encourage you to take that step. Leeds is a university that will challenge you, support you and help you become the best version of yourself.
Please feel free to get in touch with me via Unibuddy or email me at [email protected] if you have any questions.
Chat to Yanshen