Peking University, February 4, 2026: Editor's note: In our Mastering Mandarin series, we spotlight international students learning Chinese, each with their own reasons, goals, and inspirations. Drawn to Chinese characters, Nerea is studying the language and exploring Chinese culture during her exchange at Peking University.
Nerea, a visiting student from Spain in the Chinese Language Department at Peking University, with a background in East Asian studies.
Why did you start learning Chinese?
"I started learning Chinese because I was very interested in the writing system. I thought that the fact that every character and different parts of one character had a specific meaning was fascinating. Even though memorising so many characters can be tricky, it's fun trying to decipher the meaning of a new word with the ones I already know."
Why did you choose PKU?
"I chose Peking University because I heard that it was a top university and I wanted to seize the opportunity of being in such a well-rated institution."
The prestigious reputation led Nerea to choose to study at Peking University. She also added that she is excited to live in Beijing. "I wanted to live in the capital of China because I think it has a great mix of traditional and modern vibes, and I don't regret my choice!"
Learning tips for beginners?
"Honestly, I would suggest throwing yourself out there and trying to speak from day one, and it's fine if you make mistakes, because Chinese people are very nice!"
Nerea believes that courage is the most important thing to have when it comes to studying the Chinese language. She added that consistency is the key. "I think it's important to review every day if possible, especially with Chinese or any other language that's very different from your mother tongue, because it's very easy to forget if you don't use it. And make sure you make it fun! I think watching content in Chinese is useful, because it makes it easier to memorise the new vocabulary you're learning."
The most difficult thing you faced during the process?
"For me, the hardest part is speaking Chinese, and that is one of the reasons I knew I needed to come to China, but I think I'm getting better at it!”
She shared her experience encountering the difficulty during a conversation. "I realised how important tones were, and why my previous teachers insisted so much on learning them correctly! The first few days I was trying to speak Chinese to Chinese people, they would look at me confused until I tried to pronounce words using the right tones, and they finally understood me!" She also added a remark, "luckily, I don't think I have ever said anything inappropriate to anyone!"
Despite feeling challenged, Nerea did not hesitate as the fear motivated her to come and immerse herself in the language in China. "I tell myself I just have to be patient and go step by step, and constantly remind myself that there's nothing wrong with making mistakes, because that's the only way I'm going to get better at it."
A memorable moment at PKU or in China when you felt "closer to China"?
"So far, the moment I felt closer to China was when I was playing a volleyball match with Chinese students."
Nerea added that sometimes it is possible to feel out of place as there are limited foreigners in China. However, the match with students from different background and languages actually brought her closer to the culture. "I don't know how to explain it, but I felt very integrated while I was playing in that match."
A favorite proverb?
"Actually, I'm very bad at remembering idioms and proverbs in Chinese, but if I had to choose, I would say the idiom 无价之宝, which means 'priceless treasure'."
The benefits of learning Chinese language?
"I think studying Chinese and its culture is especially useful for my professional career, as my goal is to become someone who helps improve communication between China and my country, whether through translation or by working in an international company."
Nerea believes that studying the Chinese language would help with her academics and professional career. Coming from East Asian studies, she shared that she could understand the culture and customs in China which is beneficial for her future prospects, to build bridges between Spain and China.
A moment where you felt accomplished while learning Chinese?
"I can't think about any specific story, but I feel so accomplished whenever I'm watching a film or a drama and a vocabulary that I have learned in class comes up and I understand it."
Nerea felt that she had progressed when she managed to pick up the meaning of the Chinese drama. She added that this feeling also motivated her to continue learning. "I can feel like I'm making progress because I understand more and more every week, and that keeps me very motivated!"
Written by: Tan Sze Yin
Edited by: Nicole Accalia Angriawan, Wang Zihan, Chen Shizhuo
Photo: Courtesy of the interviewee
