My exchange life in Poland has been a rich and meaningful experience. In this era of globalization, having the opportunity to step out of my home country and experience the education and lifestyle of a different culture is undoubtedly an invaluable life experience. Last year, I was fortunate enough to spend a semester as an exchange student at The University of Szczecin, engaging in academic exchange and experiencing a different life. This journey not only broadened my horizons but also profoundly reshaped my worldview, granting me treasures beyond mere knowledge. This experience was not only an enhancement of my academic abilities but also a comprehensive growth in personal qualities and cross-cultural understanding.
Once arriving, I was deeply captivated by the city’s perfect blend of historical heritage and modern vibes. From the ancient Gothic architecture to the bustling commercial districts, every corner exuded a unique charm. In the initial weeks, I struggled to adapt to the new environment, including dietary habits, the public transportation system, and the language barriers in daily communication. Despite numerous challenges, it was precisely these difficulties that pushed me to integrate more quickly into local society and to view cultural differences with greater openness and inclusivity. Through interactions with classmates from different countries, I deeply appreciated the beauty of cultural diversity and learned how to promote cultural exchange and integration through respect and understanding.
On the academic front, this exchange experience exposed me to teaching methods and research fields vastly different from those in China. I participated in several high-quality courses covering a wide range of content from fundamental theories to cutting-edge research. The professors were not only knowledgeable, but they also encouraged students to actively participate in classroom discussions. This interactive teaching style greatly stimulated my interest in learning and critical thinking skills. Additionally, in terms of extracurricular activities, The University of Szczecin hosted events such as “International Student Day”. I assisted in organizing the project application for a Chinese culture exhibition and the preparation of materials for the event. Ultimately, the Chinese project was awarded the “Most Creative Award”, showcasing the fusion of Chinese and foreign cultures. This international learning experience significantly enhanced my cross-cultural communication skills, independent learning abilities, and teamwork capabilities. It also gave me a deeper understanding of my strengths and weaknesses in my professional field. I would integrate these experiences into my subsequent studies and research, continuously improve myself while contributing to the internationalization efforts of my home university.
Living independently far from home became an indispensable part of this exchange experience. From managing daily life to solving unexpected problems, each step tested my self-management and problem-solving skills. I learned to cook simple foreign dishes and experienced the joy of solo travel and exploring the unknown. Although there were moments of loneliness and homesickness, these emotions also became driving forces for my continuous growth. I realized that true growth often comes with challenges and discomfort, and it is these experiences that shape a more resilient and independent self.
Looking back on this exchange experience, what I gained was not just academic progress but, more importantly, personal growth and a profound understanding of the world. I learned to respect and appreciate the unique values of different cultures and understood the responsibilities and duties of being a global citizen. This experience was like a window, allowing me to see the vastness and diversity of the world, and it provided infinite possibilities for my future academic path and life planning. I believe that this precious experience will be a shining gem in my life journey, illuminating my path forward and inspiring me to continuously explore the unknown and pursue excellence.
Through this exchange study abroad, I am more convinced that only with an open mind and relentless effort can we find our own place in this rapidly changing world and shine with the most dazzling light.
Li man, MA(Translatology) Candidate, Class of 2023
