Editor's note: We have asked expats living in China to share their own stories about the cities they work and live in. Ajay Seth is from Nepal and has been living and working in Shandong province for over 10 years.

I would begin with the word "缘份" (destiny) , which I often hear from my friends and family here, especially in Shandong province. My journey to China began in 2009 when I decided to enroll in the petroleum engineering program at China University of Petroleum (East China), where I studied, trained and attended workshops. Dongying is the city where I'm working at the moment and I call it my home.

As an international student in China, I was exposed to a whole new world of culture, language, and customs. I call it, "a world of multi-culture". In addition to learning about my chosen field, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in Chinese traditions, sample the country's delicious cuisines, and explore the country's many historical landmarks and attractions.

Ajay Seth (First on the right) celebrates Christmas Eve with friends in Dongying, on Dec 24, 2018. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

I would say that my first impression of China was "an immensely vast country". It was the month of February when I flew from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, to Qingdao via Guangzhou. I remember I had to take off my jacket as the temperature was warmer in Guangzhou and put it on again after I landed in Qingdao as the city was snowing. This was the point where I realized "China is a vast country".

I joined Kerui Petroleum & Gas in 2017 as a petroleum engineer responsible for overseas business development in the areas of oilfield services, supply of oilfield tools and equipment and new energy projects. Kerui focuses on the development of the oil and gas energy industry, and provides solutions in the research and development (R&D) and manufacturing of high-end oil and gas energy equipment, oil and gas field production enhancement and new energy development, oil and gas energy engineering (EPCC), etc. As an international company, Kerui prioritizes the local content for its overseas subsidiaries.

For me, working in Dongying is a fulfilling and exciting experience. One of the biggest challenges for expats working in China is the language barrier, however, as a petroleum engineer, my role is more technical and I work for overseas regions, so my Chinese language ability is adequate for day-to-day communication with my local colleagues.

Ajay Seth (First row, center) attends a professional training seminar for oil and gas personnel on Dec 22, 2018 in Dongying. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

As a petroleum engineer, I have the opportunity to work on large-scale energy projects, which is a significant and growing industry in China and overseas. Kerui attaches great importance to technology and has established a relatively complete R&D system and team around the world, and promotes the development of the oil and gas energy industry. Whenever I recommend the company's services and products to overseas customers, I feel proud. The rapid development of the company has provided me with a lot of room for growth, and learning new knowledge and skills through the experience I receive at my job is very fulfilling.

As I continue to work in Dongying, I gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and customs. Despite Dongying being a comparatively new city among others, it has a rich history with lots of diversity, and there is always something new to learn or explore. Known as an oil city with the second largest oilfield in China, it also has a vast wetland park, the Yellow River estuary and the Sun Tzu Memorial Temple, which are major landmarks and attractions to visit.

In addition to learning about Dongying's history and culture, the city is known for its unique cuisine. Dongying food is diverse and delicious and consists of a wide range of flavors and ingredients. To name a few that I really like are: Huanghekou hairy crabs, Lijin fried buns, Shikou roasted chicken, Yellow River saury, and Yanwo mutton soup.

As an international student who is now a working professional, I have plenty of opportunities here in Dongying. Life and work in China can be a unique and fulfilling experience for those who are willing to embrace the challenges and immerse themselves in the culture. As I continue to grow, I would sum up by saying I'm very fortunate to learn, experience, contribute to and share this unique place that I've chosen to live and work in. This is destiny!

Ajay Seth trains delegates from Mozambique in Dongying on Aug 20, 2019. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Ajay Seth attends a calligraphy activity at a new year event for friendship in Dongying in 2022. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]