My Story with Beautiful China

Katsukavadee, Chanoknun from the School of Economics at Yunnan University. [Photo/WeChat account of School of International Chinese Language Education, Yunnan University]

As a Thai, I was extremely excited and curious when I first set foot in China. Yunnan University, located in beautiful Yunnan province, became my new home. Ever since I first came to this country, my life has been filled with wonderful experiences and new insights.

When I first came here, it all seemed so different and strange. It was amidst this confusion that I met my first Chinese friend, Li. She is a kind and open-minded girl who always has a warm smile on her face. She taught me Chinese with patience and care and helped me adapt to the new environment, making me feel at home.

Thanks to her, I gradually learned simple, everyday Chinese such as "Ni Hao (hello)" and "Xie Xie (thank you)". These simple Chinese words became the bridge for me to communicate in China.

During my time at Yunnan University, I not only acquired knowledge, but also forged valuable friendships. I met classmates from all over the world. Some of them are from bustling cities and some from remote villages. We studied, lived and shared stories and experiences together. I not only learned about how to communicate with people, but also gained a deeper understanding of China's cultural diversity and history.

I also traveled and personally experienced the local customs of China. I visited the magnificent Old Town of Lijiang to feel the unique charm of Naxi culture; I climbed the grand Yulong Snow Mountain to appreciate the wonders of nature; and I visited the bustling metropolis of Shanghai to experience its fast-paced lifestyle. These travels provided me with a deeper insight into China and deepened my love for this magical land.

Of course, as a food-lover, I could not miss the local delicacies of China. From the rice noodles and steamed pot chicken of Yunnan to the roasted duck and noodles with soybean paste of Beijing to the hotpot and skewered food served in Sichuan hotpot, I was deeply impressed by each type of food. I enjoyed the hot and spicy tastes and felt the rich culture and history with each bite. While tasting the delicious food, I not only satisfied my taste buds, but also deepened my understanding of Chinese culture.

In the four years of undergraduate life at Yunnan University, I not only learned specialized knowledge, but also interpersonal skills and how to appreciate different cultures. China's history, culture, food and local customs have become an indispensable part of my life. I am grateful for this for everyone and everything I encountered during this unforgettable time in my life.

Looking back, I feel proud and lucky to have had the chance to study in China. China, a country of endless charm and vitality, provided me with a stage to grow and realize my dreams. I believe that in the days to come, wherever I go, this beautiful encounter with China will remain a precious memory.

Now I have graduated and returned to Thailand. But in my heart, China always has a special place. I will continue learning Chinese, maintain contact with China and share what I saw, heard and learned there with more people. Because I know in my heart that this story with China will be the most beautiful and unforgettable encounter of my life.