Kedir Abdurezak Nuriye (third left) with his classmates at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China in 2022 (COURTESY)

As a child, I was captivated by machines and their inner workings. I yearned to design contraptions that could solve real-world problems and improve people’s lives. So, when it came time to choose a university, I knew that mechanical engineering was the path for me. 

After a thorough search, I found Assosa University in Ethiopia. The university’s reputation for excellence in mechanical engineering and the vibrant culture of the town of Assosa drew me in. For a year, I immersed myself in mechanical engineering, studying diligently and tinkering with machines in the lab. 

But fate had other plans for me. The Ethiopian Government recognised my academic achievements and offered me a scholarship to study abroad, with the hope that I could use my education to help transform the country’s economy. With excitement and trepidation, I boarded a plane in February 2019 to expand my horizons. 

My journey at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) was an experience that I will always hold dear. The university’s commitment to excellence and its contributions to the field of engineering have solidified its reputation as a leading institution in China and beyond. Its engineering programmes are widely respected, and I knew that it was the perfect place for me to pursue my academic goals. 

Studying engineering at UESTC as an international student offers numerous advantages. The university provides a high-quality education, with experienced faculty and a rigorous curriculum. We have access to cutting-edge research opportunities, allowing us to contribute to technological advancements. UESTC has achieved significant innovation in an array of areas such as communication technology, artificial intelligence and robotics. 

But my journey at UESTC was not just about academics and research. I also participated in several Chinese speaking, Chinese poetry and video creating competitions and won several awards. These experiences helped me to connect with the local community on a deeper level and taught me about the beauty and richness of Chinese culture. 

Chinese and Ethiopian cultures share certain similarities, such as respect for elders, value of education, the importance of family, and the celebration of festivals. However, they also have distinct characteristics. Chinese culture, to me, represents a rich tapestry of traditions, values and a deep-rooted history. It embodies principles like respect, harmony and the pursuit of knowledge. Participating in Chinese cultural competitions allowed me to immerse myself in various aspects of Chinese culture, and I was impressed by the dedication, passion and attention to detail displayed by participants. It taught me the value of cultural exchange, teamwork and perseverance, while broadening my understanding and fostering cross-cultural appreciation. 

As an individual with a passion for giving back, I found myself deeply involved in several extracurricular activities during my time at UESTC. It was important for me to not only excel academically but also to make a meaningful impact on the community. I was part of several community service projects. Whether it was cleaning up a local park or helping build a community centre, I found great joy in being able to give back to the community that had welcomed me with open arms, and I received great appreciation and applause for my efforts. 

Looking back on my time at UESTC, I realise how much I have grown as a person. I learnt to be more independent, more adaptable and more resilient. I gained a deeper appreciation for different cultures and ways of life, and made many lifelong friends.  

The author is an Ethiopian Student of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan Province