After obtaining my Bachelor of Science degree in University of Science and Techology of China (USTC) in 1998, I entered the Ph.D. program of USC’s Department of Earth Sciences. I have benefited tremendously from my six years of experience at USC. I was fortunate to work under the guidance of my Ph.D. advisor Professor Yehuda Ben-Zion and other professors in the Department, who have taught me not only the basic scientific knowledge, but also how to become an independent scientist with high-quality standards and innovative ideas. From the beginning of my Ph.D. study, I have been involved with research activities within the Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC), headquartered at USC, which provided a platform for young students like me to get engaged and networked within the scientific communities. In addition, USC offered many opportunities for me to take classes outside the department, which helped me to build my computer and communication skills. In particular, I enrolled in the “The Professoriate: Preparing for the Future” program offered by Center for Excellence in Teaching (CET) in the last year of my Ph.D. study. I learned both the fundamental principles of teaching and learning, and many practical skills such as writing a teaching philosophy, developing course syllabus, and preparing for academic interviews. These skills and knowledge helped me tremendously during my job search and current position at Georgia Tech. I really enjoyed my time at USC and I still keep the connection with the Department and the SCEC.