"I don't have the qualifications yet. I'll need to pursue a graduate degree." Teacher Liu Lu shook her head. "Let's talk about it in five years."
"Next year, I'll try to earn my graduate degree," Song He said. "After that, I expect a lot of universities will be willing to hire me as a graduate advisor. When the time comes, you can apply to be my graduate student, Teacher."
Liu Lu stared at him in astonishment. "Next year? A graduate degree? Aren't you only about to start your undergraduate studies?"
"That's right, but I'll finish as quickly as possible," Song He said. "You can skip grades at university, too."
Liu Lu smiled. "Even if you skip grades, there's no way you can finish university in one year! You're being too optimistic! Still, you'll probably become a graduate advisor very quickly. Then it's settled—I'll come and be your student."
Song He nodded repeatedly. "But, Teacher, I can't let you graduate with your eyes closed."
"What do you mean?" Liu Lu tilted her head in confusion.
"You'll have to learn at least some things and build up a certain amount of knowledge. I won't require you to work on projects or publish SCI papers, but you'll at least have to pass the simplest knowledge tests," Song He said seriously.
Liu Lu suddenly understood. She reached out and patted him on the shoulder. "Don't worry. Isn't this just about protecting your reputation? You're afraid I'll make a fool of myself in the future because I don't know anything, and people will say you're no good as a teacher, right?"
Song He's face reddened. "I don't really mind. The key point is that you're going to become a principal."
"Don't worry. I wasn't just coasting through university, either. I have genuine knowledge and ability!