How far can one path take you? From the rolling waves of a warship’s bridge to guiding young students on campus, our alumnus has shown us one inspiring answer.
On April 24, the lecture series “The Future I Envision” welcomed a distinguished graduate of our preparatory school, Captain Yang Ling-Xiang, who once commanded a Lafayette-class frigate. Beginning with lighthearted memories of his junior high days—recalling the “slippery shampoo skating rink” in the dorm showers—he took the audience on a journey that stretched all the way to the vast open seas.
The event was filled with laughter and amazement. To give students a taste of the challenges at sea, Captain Yang personally led a “spinning endurance challenge,” vividly demonstrating what it truly feels like to lose one’s bearings. He also revealed the secrets of naval signal flags and shared intriguing maritime legends. More importantly, he spoke about facing critical situations at sea and how to make sound decisions under intense pressure.
“Everyone on a warship is part of the team—this is the Navy’s anchor chain spirit.”
After leaving military service, Captain Yang brought this leadership philosophy—once used to guide hundreds of officers and sailors—into the field of experimental education. He encouraged students to value their reputation, to seek help proactively, and to find a healthy balance between work and life—like a dual-engine system powering them forward.
Where you stand today determines the world you will see tomorrow.
We sincerely thank Captain Yang for returning to his alma mater. Like a lighthouse at sea, he illuminated the path ahead and inspired students to navigate bravely toward their future. The preparatory school will continue to invite alumni from diverse fields to engage with students, making this chapter of youth not only a time of discipline, but also a journey of discovering the future.
