“I suggest that international freshmen at Tianjin University make more friends, especially with Chinese students. This could help them fit into their new life quickly. Moreover, treasure every moment in China to focus on studying and learning about Chinese culture…” Claude, a second year doctoral student, advises foreign students at TJU. Claude came from Cameroon in Africa five years ago and he is now studying business administration in the College of Management and Economics. In fluent Chinese, Claude talked about his five-year-story at TJU and expressed his high expectations and good wishes to new friends from other countries.
Claude came to TJU in Sep，2013. After learning Chinese for one year, he spent three years earning a master degree and then started his doctoral study specializing in international investment. When asked why he chose China and came to TJU, he said that China was currently the second largest economy in the world and TJU was so well-known in China; also, many of his friends who had studied at TJU recommended the university to him, including his sister and brother-in-law.
During his stay, Claude has witnessed China’s rapid economic development. “It is very inspiring indeed. I’m amazed.” He paid close attention to the 2018 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. “China and Cameroon are developing a close relationship. I hope our two countries can have deeper cultural, social and economic communications.”
Claude also discussed the difference between Chinese higher education and that of his own country. In his opinion, in Cameroon, college education is usually career-oriented and their curricula and activities are arranged accordingly while in China, students are encouraged to figure out their future plan through college study which focuses on teaching professional knowledge and provides students with multiple career choices. In his spare time, Claude loves learning and practicing Chinese Kung Fu. He even can perform crosstalk.
As an “old”(experienced) Tianjin citizen, Claude had much to say to the newcomers in September. He encouraged overseas freshmen to make more friends and cherish their study time in China. “It is most important to learn Chinese well. It will make life and study easier in China.” Claude emphasized that international students should spare no effort in learning professional knowledge, and take advantage of the opportunity of studying and living in a foreign country. “There is no reason for anyone to dawdle away their time here.” Claude hoped that all students can serve as a bridge of friendship between China and their mother country.
By Zhao Haodong Translated by Gao Han
Editors: Yin Wei & Doris Harrington
