As a junior student majoring in German at Ningbo University, I was fortunate enough to embark on a brief yet full exchange life in Poland during my first semester of the junior year. This journey not only broadened my academic horizons but also provided me with a deeper understanding of overseas life and diverse cultures.
Learning in Poland
During my study in Poland, I learned about the fast pace of overseas curricula in real sense. The courses progressed quickly, with dense content that posed both a challenge and an opportunity for my personal growth. To adapt to this learning rhythm, I began previewing lessons in advance and reviewing promptly after class, while took my initiative to engage with professors and classmates to discuss challenging topics. Although it was sometimes strenuous, it was in overcoming these difficulties that I learned how to manage my time and adjust my learning strategies more efficiently. I’ve also developed the ability to solve problems independently.
Despite my short stay in Poland, which was not long enough for me to gain an in-depth understanding of all local cultural nuances, this experience still left me with numerous wonderful memories. In terms of daily life, I was received the warmth of the Polish people and got in touch with the tranquility and romance of European small towns. Campus life was vibrant and diverse. Participating in various activities and interacting with local students gave me a preliminary understanding of European culture. Especially during festive events, I witnessed the unique charm of their traditions, which undoubtedly sparked my interest in further exploration of European culture.
Enligtenments
The exchange experience in Poland has made me realize that studying abroad is not just an academic enhancement but also a spiritual journey. I learned to adapt to new environment and immerse myself in foreign cultures. At the same time, I also got more clear about my future direction. In the face of various challenges in language, study and culture, I have learned to embrace the unknown world with a more inclusive mindset. We even assisted a local library in translating some documents in the period of the Republic of China. Although some traditional Chinese characters were difficult to be recognized, we all did our best. Touching Chinese history with our own hand on foreign soil filled me with an indescribable sense of emotion. It shows that stepping out of one’s comfort zone and trying different lifestyles can often unleash greater potential and creativity.
In summary, my exchange life in Poland, though brief, has yet brought me numerous valuable memories and gains. From the rapid pace of the classroom to the unique cultural exchanges, every detail has been enriching my life experiences. Moving forward, I will continue to maintain this enthusiasm for learning and life, and embrace challenges with more courage. Now I’m looking forward to having more wonderful international experiences on the road ahead.
Tian Shiyu, BA(German) Candidate, Class of 2022
