Angolan Miguel Quintas

How did you come to rescue three Chinese students from drowning?

The four of us [myself, José, Mauro and Patrick] were on the way to go shopping. The weather was nice, so we decided to go on foot. Passing by the river, we saw people struggling in the water. Patrick and I jumped into the river and brought two men back with the help of José and Mauro. Then we were told there was still another man in the river. Patrick and I kept searching him until we were exhausted. The other two could not swim, so we asked several other Chinese people for help. Finally, the last man was found, but unfortunately he didn't survive.

How did the incident affect you? What have you taken away from the experience?

I'm glad that I have become good friends with the two Chinese students [since the incident]. In Angola, helping others is our nature and our tradition. When we help someone, we prefer it to be a secret between the two involved, rather than have it become known to many people. So, I never thought that I would get famous for this. I've been in bookstores where a salesman will recognize me and send me a book; when I go to markets, people give me apples for free. I appreciate it very much, but I think the more important thing is that people do the same [as we did] when there is someone in need or in danger.

What pushed you to come to China?

When I was in Angola, I often read news about China's incredible growth. I want to see how this country, without abundant natural resources, developed so fast.

Now that you have been in China for a year, do you feel like you've gotten used to living here?

Before I came to China, I thought everyone in the country did kungfu, so I was a little bit scared. (I found out that's not true.)

It's very convenient to live in Tianjin. The food is great and my teachers are very nice. Other than the jet leg, I found it quick to adapt to my new life. Now I feel a little sentimental for leaving Tianjin for Beijing.

In the fall, you will be a student at the University of Science &Technology Beijing. What are you majoring in? Where do you see yourself in future?

I like electronics. Majoring in communication engineering means that I will find a job related to my interests, and that will make working relaxing and fun. I have not decided whether to continue my studies at the graduate level, but in terms of finding a job, I wish to go back to Angola to serve my country.