“I started the course of MCS program in 2020 and this was more than a gift, it was the meeting of my destiny with myself. I already knew that I needed to study and understand more about China, but I didn't realize how much this would be necessary, especially in a world with more fake news, more cases of racism and intolerance, great ignorance about what China is and what happens here, in addition to the ideological war that serves as a complicator and further distances between nations. Thus, in the China Studies program at ZIBS I found the necessary tools to build bridges, create partnerships and synergies between China and countries on the other extreme, especially Brazil, Argentina, Portugal and Spain. From here I was able to show them the quality of Chinese education, the high standard of living of the people, the fight against the pandemic and, above all, the unity and effort of the Chinese people. In addition, I had the opportunity to go to southern China, specifically in Yunnan, Jingdong, to get to know another reality and see firsthand the great achievements of the poverty alleviation policy that takes place here. I enjoyed this experience so much that today this is the subject of my research.”
Mark Patterson once said, ’the best education you will ever get is by traveling’. In my case, I have been one of the luckiest people when I was chosen to get the chance of studying in MSC program at Zhejiang University in 2017. I still remember how exciting I was after getting acceptance from one of the best universities in China - Zhejiang University - and how much I still feel honored to be part of the big family. During my study at MCS program, we got the opportunity of deeply understanding the history, culture, contemporary society, literature, modern life, traditions, beliefs, language and economy of China. We not only got familiar with Chinese conceptions of ‘harmonious society’ but also got to know a lot of amazing friends from countries all over the world. Nowadays, I’m still proud and implementing the knowledge that I got from Zhejiang University for its standardized and internationalized curriculums and in some programs of Canada, Russia, China and Middle East though the Erasmus+.
Before coming to China in 2015 to study the MA in China Studies at Zhejiang University, China was a completely unknown entity to me. I remember that just before I was about leave the UK for China, I went to Waterstones and bought China Under Mao; I packed it in my suitcase along with a vague idea that I would like to learn about Chinese history while at Zhejiang University. The MA turned that curiosity into an academic pursuit. I met incredible professors like Liu Wei and Jiang Wentao that continue to encourage me to this day. One particular highlight from the course was travelling to a village near Hangzhou and interviewing local peasants and leaders. This made me feel like I was also gaining a grassroots understanding of China. The MA at Zhejiang University enabled me to gain a career in the China studies field. Immediately after graduating I worked at the British Embassy for two years. Now I am studying an MA in history at National Taiwan University. When I came to Hangzhou in 2015, I never expected that seven years later I would still be studying Mandarin and Chinese history. But it’s a pursuit that I have found meaningful.
As an Italian, studying Chinese in Zhejiang University with a scholarship was one of the most unforgettable experience of my life and a great honor for me. Zhejiang University is very prestigious both in China and abroad. I am proud to be able to study there. When I arrived in Hangzhou in 2013, I clearly remembered that some teachers came to pick us up and took care of us for a year. Whenever international students met difficulties, they were always willing to help. I still remember that on Christmas day in 2013, teachers prepared a Christmas party for us so that we wouldn't feel alone on this sepcial occasion. I was so touched by their kindness. I learned a lot at ZJU, especially about the media, history, economics and so on. After returning to Italy, I felt that my understanding of the world has changed, because I have studied in such a good university and lived in such an interesting, developed and friendly country. Thank you so much for giving me such a great opportunity. I will keep it in mind for my whole life.
Studying in China was one of my greatest dreams. I began learning Chinese and studying the history of the Celestial Empire as a free learner. Then as a university student was selected to be a scholarship student at the Zhejiang University, I realized how lucky I was to be one of those who could experience a whole school year in one of the best Uni in China. Studying at the Zhejiang University gave me a deep understanding of Chinese culture both from a sociological and a political point of view. I have met many good friends, relevant professionals, and professors such as my thesis supervisor professor Wei Lu who gave me his total support through my research project. My vivid memory of my stay at Zhejiang University let me hope one day I will be able to go back to that amazing country.
I started studying Chinese at the Confucius Institute in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. As an inquisitive person, I dreamt of experiencing Chinese culture directly. Fast forward a few years and there I was, being awarded a 2 year scholarship under the MCS programme. Being perseverant paid off. The International Campus of ZJU in Haining was an absolute bliss: great living quarters, entertainment and sports areas, and a gorgeous library with a lovely café. The professors were engaging and open to assist the international students in their academic journey. The Haining community has received us with open arms. I have made life-long friendships with people from all over the world and we are all connected by our curiosity and love of Chinese language. The entire experience has served me well, as currently I am working within a big company that has branches in many cities in China. Don’t give up, whatever hardship you have now, one day you’ll look back and realize you grew.
“ I still remember when we first arrived in Hangzhou winter 2015. It had been three years since I’d last visited China, and my language skills had derated as such. We ordered food from a street parlor, and I quickly realized I still knew all the words. That moment sparked my enthusiasm for China studies, and it stayed on that level throughout my time at Zhejiang University. The outcome of my studies degree would not be the same without my year in Hangzhou. I gained so much implicit knowledge by just living there, not to mention improved language and research skills taught by ZJU. I also spent a lot of my time networking and doing qualitative research for my thesis on a women's movement in China. After graduation, I started working as a journalist in Norway. My background from ZJU helped me stand out among other journalists. I've covered everything from big political happenings such as Li Zhanshu's visit to my hometown, to stories about increase of Chinese tourists travelling to Norway. I now work as a university lecturer in journalism, with a picture of my class in the bookshelf”
