I had the honor of studying in the Master's Degree Programme at ECNU during 2018-2019. It was one of the most beautiful and meaningful times of my life. The welcome I received from the university was exceptional. Although I was a foreigner in the country, the care and support provided made me feel as if I were in my own homeland. When we went to the market to buy essential items, I will never forget the hospitality and kindness shown by the Chinese people. The teachers who taught us were very humble, but when it came to teaching and discipline, they were serious and fully committed to both academic and other responsibilities.

  While I was still studying during my first semester, I received the heartbreaking news of my father's passing. I was devastated and wanted to return to Ethiopia, but I didn’t have the money for transportation. I spoke with my teacher, Alisa, who then coordinated with the university administration and department to provide me with transport support and financial assistance. The university fully covered my return travel expenses to my country. In addition, Teacher Alisa, Professor Ria, Dr. Li, and Serin not only provided me with financial support but also gave me emotional encouragement. That was a moment of true compassion that I will never forget. I returned to my country, and after the funeral, I went back to China and continued my studies until I completed my program.

  I have many memorable experiences both inside and outside the university, especially with international students. Apart from classroom learning, we also went on several field trips to different places—one of which was the Great Wall of China. I also participated in a five-day international training program called the Second Belt and Road Education Dialogue, held in Beijing. During that training, I had great opportunities to exchange experiences with professionals from various countries around the world. Overall, my time at ECNU was not only about academic learning but also about gaining global experiences and visiting historical sites. It was a wonderful time. Words cannot express what the Chinese government, the Chinese people, and especially the beloved ECNU University did for me.

  I am deeply grateful to the Chinese government, the people of China, and especially ECNU for their generosity, compassion, and the world-class education they provided. My God bless the people and government of China.