Peking University, June 20, 2024: Studying at Peking University (PKU) was a leap of faith that turned into a fruitful and rewarding journey. Over my four years here, I was fortunate to be exposed to a myriad of experiences that honed my skills and provided ample space for self-exploration.

One of my core memories at Peking University was organizing the 6th China-ASEAN Youth Symposium (CAYS). As the Secretary-General, I was entrusted with the immense responsibility of leading a team of diverse and talented individuals to host an international conference. 

The event brought together nearly 150 youths from ASEAN countries and China to engage in meaningful discussions on critical topics affecting the ASEAN-China relations. Through academic discussions and cultural exchanges, the symposium fostered a sense of camaraderie among the participants, underscoring the significant role that young people can play in strengthening ASEAN-China relations.


Traveling across various places in China enriched my experience further. From the stunning mountains and unique terrains of Xinjiang and Gansu to the vibrant cities of Chongqing and Luoyang, and the cultural richness of Yunnan and Qinghai, I gained a deeper appreciation of China's vastness and diversity. Although I haven’t yet completed my goal of visiting all provinces, I’m proud to have only five left, and this unfinished goal provides me with a compelling reason to return to China in the future. My travels across China have not only expanded my horizons but also instilled in me a lasting appreciation for its rich and multifaceted identity.

Over the years, Peking University has become my second home, where I have formed lasting friendships with people from around the world. Through various clubs and activities, I was fortunate to learn new things and build meaningful relationships. Playing for my faculty in the Frisbee PKU Cup was one of the most enjoyable experiences, filled with camaraderie and team spirit.


What surprised me the most was the deep connections I made with friends from different countries, despite our diverse backgrounds and unique upbringings. It felt almost magical how we bonded through shared experiences. Whether touring around Beijing, playing board games in each other’s rooms, cycling to Tiananmen at dawn to witness the flag-raising, or enjoying picnics in Beijing’s picturesque parks, these moments brought us closer together like a family.


These experiences and connections have indeed made my time at PKU unforgettable. The friendships I've cultivated here, spanning across diverse cultural and geographical backgrounds, resonate deeply within me. At PKU, I discovered a vibrant tapestry where worlds meet, where each interaction and shared moment has broadened my perspectives and deepened my understanding of cultural diversity and global unity. 

The author is a graduate-to-be at Peking University's Yuanpei College. Hailing from Singapore, she is also an editor with PKU News.

This story is featured in PKU News' "Graduation 2024" series.

Written by: Shi Xinyao
Edited by: Dennis Meng
Photos by: Courtesy of the author