A Special Day in Leuven

Today I went to Leuven to do SEM characterization. Since I needed to put my samples into a vacuum chamber, I was told it would be best to leave them inside for a whole day. But because of the long distance, I decided to go very early and finish everything in one day. I was surprised to find that it’s even possible to book night or weekend sessions for the SEM. Somehow, this is exactly what I expect from a good research institute or university — flexible access that respects how research really works.

I don’t want to glorify overworking, but there should be an environment that allows researchers to work late when they need to — whether because experiments take a long time, or because some people simply do their best work at night. On my Brugge campus, this is impossible. There are strict checks by a third-party security company, and I always have to leave before midnight. I’ve been warned many times not to stay alone in the building for safety reasons.

But despite the early start, I had a really good working day in Leuven. After preparing my samples, I went to the canteen for lunch and ended up sitting with a big group of Chinese students. We talked about the research atmosphere back home, each other’s projects, and funny things that have happened to us here in Belgium. It had been a long time since I’d had such a warm, lively conversation with so many people. I’m not the talkative girl I once was — now I’m quieter, a listener, and I really like this version of myself: calm, thoughtful, and curious.

Back in the lab, I wasn’t familiar with one of the coating machines. A Belgian colleague I hadn’t met before was so kind — he patiently showed me how to use it step by step, and even explained the principles behind each step. By 8 p.m., I had finished all my tests. I was exhausted, but grateful — and happy with the results.

What touched me most was the bright lights of the building as I left. So many people were still working, or at least still there, deep into the night. Sometimes, I feel like an alien on my Brugge campus — I try to hide how much I love working hard, because it’s not always understood. But deep down, I know why I’m here: for research, not for entertainment. I know how to enjoy life — but for me, doing my work is part of that joy.

Where we are does not define who we are. Today reminded me of that — and made me feel grateful all over again.