罗安(2016级经济学院西方经济学专业牙买加籍硕士研究生)
I remember it like it was yesterday when my fellow Jamaican and I arrived at the Central University of Finance and Economics (CUFE). Coming from a middle-class family, I felt incredibly fortunate to receive a scholarship from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce to pursue my master’s degree at CUFE—a dream I had nurtured for years. Studying abroad had always been an aspiration of mine, and China was a destination I longed to explore. Although moving to a foreign country is rarely easy, the CUFE community made the transition seamless. The staff at the dormitory were not only accommodating but also genuinely curious about us and our culture. From the moment we set foot on campus, we felt welcomed and supported.
The kindness extended beyond the staff. The vendors at the various campus stores were equally generous. I vividly remember arriving with limited funds, unsure of how I would manage initially. One shopkeeper, noticing my predicament, kindly offered to cover my expenses, allowing me to pay her back once I received my stipend. This act of kindness left a deep and lasting impression. Life on campus was comfortable, as the convenience of on-site stores made it easy to access everything we needed, helping us feel at home.
Studying late at the library became routine, and we appreciated the cafés on each floor, where we could grab a quick meal or snack. For nights when we stayed in, the dormitory vending machines provided easy access to refreshments. These amenities contributed significantly to our ability to focus on our studies without unnecessary distractions or the need to leave campus.
A defining aspect of my CUFE journey was the guidance I received from ProfessorQiaoHeng, whose passion for Development Economics and social policy profoundly influenced me. Initially, I had planned to focus my thesis on a finance-related topic, which aligned with the expectations for a master’s student in economics. However, ProfessorQiaoHeng encouraged me to explore broader social issues and their economic implications. His guidance transformed my academic trajectory, inspiring me to delve deeper into the role of public policy in driving sustainable development.
In addition to my academic growth, I had the privilege of serving as class president. This leadership role was instrumental in developing my communication and organizational skills. I coordinated study groups, served as a liaison between students and faculty, and helped resolve challenges within our cohort. These experiences not only honed my leadership abilities but also fostered a sense of community among my peers.
The international students department further enriched our education by organizing trips to cities such as Shanghai and Chengdu. These excursions offered a firsthand look at China’s business landscape, culture, and history. Visiting companies and engaging with local professionals provided insights into best practices that could be adapted to benefit my home country. These experiences broadened my perspective on global economics and cultural dynamics, deepening my appreciation for China’s role in the international arena.
Reflecting on my time at CUFE, I am struck by the rich diversity of experiences that shaped my education. The faculty were not only experts in their fields but also approachable and committed to fostering meaningful discussions. Their encouragement of critical thinking helped us explore complex topics beyond the confines of textbooks. Engaging with classmates from diverse backgrounds further expanded my worldview and enriched my learning experience.
The rigorous academic training I received at CUFE has had a lasting impact on both my personal and professional development. The program equipped me with essential analytical and problem-solving skills, which I now apply in my career. Moreover, the emphasis on practical applications of theory has allowed me to approach challenges with confidence and creativity. My passion for policy research and development, sparked by my time at CUFE, continues to drive my professional ambitions.
Since graduating, I have leveraged the knowledge and skills I gained at CUFE in various aspects of my career. Whether conducting financial analyses, devising strategies, or collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, the foundation I built at CUFE has been instrumental to my success. Additionally, the friendships and connections I made during my time there remain valuable assets in my professional network.
In conclusion, my memories of CUFE are filled with gratitude and admiration. The kindness of the community, the generosity of the staff and vendors, and the intellectually stimulating environment have left an indelible mark on my life. As CUFE celebrates its 75th anniversary, I am honored to be part of its alumni network. The lessons I learned and the experiences I gained at CUFE will continue to shape my journey in Development Economics, guiding my efforts to contribute meaningfully to my field and my home country.
撰稿:罗安
审核:张碘
终审:李春玲