About Me
Hi 👋 I’m Yi FAN, a master student (currently in Honor Program) at Ming Hsieh Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Southern California, specializing in Machine Learning and Data Science.
My research Interest covers Generative Models, LLMs and Statistical Physics. I am currently an independent Course Producer for course EE541: a computational introduction to Deep Learning in USC, where I compile a well-structured textbook as user-friendly learning materials to students, with the aim of striking a trade-off between conciseness and richness.
Before my new journey in the USA, I had a wonderful time at Fudan University, Shanghai, China, and earned a Bachelor's degree in Physics. Professor Peng TAN generously guided me in my research on soft condensed matter physics. Alongside my academic pursuits, I worked for McKinsey & Company as a Part-Time Assistant, where I met a remarkable group of young colleagues full of ideas and creativity.
At heart, I’m a pure idealist who embraces the beauty of a nonlinear, adventurous life. Beyond my professional study, my curiosity extends to astronomy, philosophy of physics, and Eastern literature. I’m also passionate about the outdoors and proudly consider myself an adventurer — just as Thoreau once said, "I went to the woods / because I wished to live deliberately!"
If you’re looking for the perfect rooftop to catch a romantic sunset, feel free to join me on an exploration! 😊
Education Background
Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Physics
Work Experience
Conducted in-depth research on the Electric Vehicle industry, covering areas such as subsidized policies for new energy vehicle purchases, battery recycling standardization in Southeast Asia, and residential community charging infrastructure in China. Utilized Bloomberg Terminal to extract and organize data, assisting analysts developing comprehensive industry reports.
Compiling concise, formal, and precise lecture notes/handouts, structured around two main themes: one for Theory Backgrounds and the other for Applications. The former answers the question “What and Why” by providing a written, extended, and fine-tuned version of the lecture slides, aiming to relieve the sense of loss during self-study. The latter delves deeper into “How,” offering hints and examples for homework and other meaningful tasks.
Hobbies
Astrophile! 🔭
I was once a member of the Academic Department of the Fudan University Astronomy Society, where I embarked on outdoor adventures with like-minded friends, drifting across landscapes in search of romantic rooftops and dazzling starry skies. I participated in two self-organized astronomy education summer camps—the "Tianwen" project—bringing astronomy and art education to children in Shizuishan, Ningxia, 2023 and Geyuan, Jiangxi, 2024.
Now, in California, I still chase my own romantic sunsets, venturing to hidden rooftops and scenic spots. One day, I hope to gather enough funds to finally purchase my own telescope—LOL!
Bookworm! 📚
In my free time, I enjoy a little game of fate—rolling the dice to decide which of my four favorite libraries at USC will host my afternoon of literary indulgence.
I must admit, rather than immersing myself solely in rigorous academic research, I find myself drawn to the profound yet tender existentialism of Albert Camus, the introspective and melancholic charm of Fernando Pessoa, or the intricate, dreamlike storytelling of Haruki Murakami.
Why is it that, despite being a STEM student, my mind is constantly preoccupied with astronomy, philosophy, and culture? Perhaps that is precisely what it means to be human.
Finally, I’d like to share a quote from my idol, the physicist Richard Feynman:
"So I have just one wish for you—the good luck to be somewhere where you are free to maintain the kind of integrity I have described, and where you do not feel forced by a need to maintain your position in the organization, or financial support, or so on, to lose your integrity. May you have that freedom."
Outdoors and Marathon! 🏃♂️
Inspired by Haruki Murakami’s What I Talk About When I Talk About Running, I have gradually fallen in love with long-distance running, making it a part of my life—a long-term commitment of passion and perseverance.
This May, I have officially signed up for the OC County Marathon. Wish me good luck!