As the new academic year approaches, universities across Guangdong Province are embracing waves of fresh international students. And Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU) is no exception. According to the university, the upcoming autumn semester of the 2024 academic year will see approximately 150 new international undergraduate students and 100 new international graduate (master's and doctoral) students.

What drew them specifically to SYSU? What is their impression of Guangdong? Any expectations for their life in China? Let's delve deeper into the motivations and aspirations that led these international students to choose SYSU.

Realize technological dreams in "second hometown"

Thaiprasert Napat and his elder sister. (Photo: Abby Chen)

"Guangdong is my second hometown!" For Thaiprasert Napat, a Thai student pursuing a degree in Computer Science at SYSU, his journey began with a childhood bond with Guangdong.

Having lived in Guangdong's Dongguan with his parents and attended primary school in Humen, he felt a deep connection to the region. "Choosing a university in Guangdong made it easier for me to focus on my studies," he explained.

Thaiprasert's fascination with programming and software development, coupled with the rapid development of AI technologies, fueled his decision to pursue a career in Computer Science. "SYSU, with its supercomputer center and other facilities, is the most renowned here."

When discussing his feelings about returning to Guangdong, Thaiprasert expressed that despite his current ability to only speak some simple daily Cantonese, he managed to integrate into the daily life of the province. "What delights me the most is the prevalence of electric vehicles on the roads, which have largely replaced gasoline-powered cars. In terms of lifestyle, it's undoubtedly ahead of the curve, with a smartphone essentially fulfilling all needs."

"I went to have morning tea on the first day I returned to China, and my favorite dishes are stir-fried rice noodles and tiger skin chicken feet," Thaiprasert was eager to share with his classmates these authentic Cantonese delicacies.

A passion for Chinese culture

Carla Leydi Sandoval Machicado (Photo: Biling Fang)

"I am deeply interested in Chinese culture!" Carla Leydi Sandoval Machicado from Bolivia, chose SYSU's Chinese Language and Literature major because of her ardent admiration for Chinese culture.

This was not her first visit to China. Carla first stepped into the country in 2018 to visit her sister studying at Jinan University in Guangzhou. The experience ignited a passion within her, solidifying her decision to delve deeper into Chinese culture and language. During her first journey in China, Carla came across a Chinese poem featured in a TV drama. "As I listened, I thought, 'Wow, it's so beautiful.' That's when I knew I had to learn Chinese."

Now back in Guangzhou, Carla found the city "warm and familiar". The weather and some streetscapes evoke a sense of déjà vu, while the diverse cuisine left her pleasantly surprised. "I've heard that Guangdong people eat everything," she laughed, adding that she's particularly fond of fried rice and various types of steamed buns.

Looking ahead to her campus life, Carla eagerly anticipated delving into traditional Chinese arts, in addition to her academic endeavors. "I wanna learn Tai Chi, martial arts, and the instrument guqin, immersing myself in the Chinese culture!"

Pursue AI expertise to benefit homeland

Kedir Milkesa Temam (Photo: Abby Chen)

Kedir Milkesa Temam, an Ethiopian student enrolled in SYSU's Artificial Intelligence Engineering major, arrived with a sense of novelty and enthusiasm. New to the country, Kedir found campus life in this foreign land incredibly invigorating and has proactively applied to be a student assistant, eager to immerse himself in the vibrant community.

It was SYSU's prestigious reputation, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence, that truly captivated Kedir. "Artificial Intelligence is the new frontier of technological advancement worldwide, and China stands out prominently in this domain," said Kedir. "SYSU, with its stunning campus and renowned achievements in AI, was the perfect choice for me."

Determined to make the most of his academic journey, Kedir vowed to delve deeply into the cutting-edge technologies of AI. He aspired to not only master these skills but also to bring this knowledge back to Ethiopia, where he hoped to contribute significantly to the country's technological progress and societal development. "I want to help my country grow," he emphasized.

Link to the report: https://www.newsgd.com/node_6d449858df/8551c2db71.shtml