Intl students embrace fresh beginnings from Wuhan

International graduates from the Hubei University of Technology. [Photo provided to chinaopticsvalley.com]

International students came to Wuhan, Central China's Hubei province, from all parts of the world, and this summer, they will soon be bounded for destinations throughout the globe from the city to achieve their respective dreams after graduation. Three Wuhan-based international graduates were interviewed about what they have seen, heard, and felt about the city.

"My days in Wuhan are fantastic. I have enriched my professional knowledge through hard work. Extracurricular activities have made me fall in love with the city. I plan to stay in Wuhan and contribute to its social development," said a Russian graduate Evelina who is about to gain her master's degree in law at the Zhongnan University of Economics and Law. She is actively applying for a doctorate in international law at the same university.

At the degree awarding ceremony on June 25 for graduates at China University of Geosciences, a Sudanese student Tan Yi (his Chinese name), explained how his impression of Wuhan changed tremendously as time passed. "I was confused about the city's publicity slogan 'Wuhan, different every day' in the very beginning. But I realized how gorgeous the city is after I had been here for several years. I love Wuhan's inclusiveness, hospitable citizens, and pleasant natural environment. I will come back someday", Tan said. 

As a photography fan, Tan Yi has recorded Wuhan's natural landscapes and bustling street scenes through his lens. He posted these videos on Instagram, enabling more overseas netizens to learn about the city.

"I grew up at my Dad's traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) clinic, and I love the special fragrance given off by the medicine, which has driven me to learn TCM in China. My best memories in China were formed when I was learning to pick up the Wuhan accent, eating hot dry noodles with my classmates and teachers", said a Thai girl Zhan Wanting (Chinese name), while looking back at her life in Wuhan for the past decade with a smiling face with tears.

Zhan is set to return to her homeland and spread what she has learned in Wuhan to more needy people.