2024-03-27
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Editor's Note: The fourth SCNU English Writing and Short Video Contest, themed "SCNU & Me", ended with 312 entries from 39 different schools and institutes. We congratulate all prize winners on their outstanding performance. Awarded winners have been announced (see results), and all winning entries will be published in this column.

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By He Yuxin

In the 90th year at South China Normal University, I find myself reminiscing about the golden years I spent with this esteemed institution. The memories of our encounters, the moments of getting to know each other, and the love that blossomed between us flow through my heart like a river of time. This is the story of my journey with SCNU, a story that is intertwined with the story of the university itself.

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Golden images of the iconic buildings on the four campus of SCNU.

Meeting

Our first encounter was in the autumn of 2022 when I stepped foot on the campus of SCNU with a heart full of excitement. The university was new and unfamiliar to me, but it exuded an air of solemnity and elegance. The school gate, adorned with a sculpture of a thinker, led to the palace of knowledge that lay beyond. It was an abstract and distant image, yet it held all my imagination of what a university campus should be. Guided by friendly and enthusiastic seniors, I embarked on a tour of the campus with my fellow freshmen. From the grand office building to the modern self-service area, from the bustling Taoyuan Canteen to the vibrant football field, every corner of the campus left an indelible mark on my heart. I took a photo in front of the school motto stone, marking the beginning of my story with SCNU.

Knowing

As the years went by, I grew from an ignorant freshman to a senior sister in my sophomore year. The days spent with SCNU allowed me to deepen my understanding of the university. In my first semester, a passionate teacher shared with us the history of SCNU, from its humble beginnings as Gezhi Academy to its current status as South China Normal University. The wisdom and hard work of countless predecessors shaped the university into what it is today. The school motto of "hard work, rigorous scholarship, truth-seeking and innovation, and being a role model for others" and the school spirit of "seeking truth from facts" and "loyalty, unity, simplicity, humility, diligence, and courage" was instilled in every student. The academic atmosphere at SCNU was palpable, inspiring generations of students to strive for excellence. The dedication of the teachers was equally remarkable. While many students were fast asleep, the lights in the office building would still be on, as some teachers were engrossed in their research. These outstanding teachers became our role models, and I, as a student of SCNU, always kept in mind the saying "Learn from the teacher, be a model of high morality." I followed their example and worked hard to acquire knowledge and skills. The strong academic atmosphere of SCNU nurtured me into a qualified teacher.

Loving

Love grew between SCNU and me. The university provided us students with a broad platform to showcase our talents. The "Golden Seed" project, the "Youth Research Cup" research competition, the college English competition, and various other extracurricular activities allowed us to shine and become better versions of ourselves. I fell in love with the academic atmosphere, the serene shadow of the trees next to the sculpture of the meditator, the youthful energy that permeated the campus, and the hardworking individuals who surrounded me. The students of SCNU were shining stars, expressing their love for the university through their research achievements and outstanding performances. SCNU was a fertile ground for knowledge, witnessing the growth and achievements of countless students. It was a cradle of talent, guiding us on our path to success. As our love story continues, every detail of my time at SCNU is worth cherishing.

I am here with SCNU, at her 90th. It is a wonderful fate that brought us together, allowing me to meet, get to know, and fall in love with SCNU. In the embrace of SCNU, I weathered the storms of two years, leaving behind precious memories and warmth. As students of SCNU, we must always remember the school motto of "hard work, rigorous scholarship, pragmatism and innovation, and being a role model for others." Let us add glory to SCNU through our unwavering efforts. As the 90th anniversary approaches, let us wish SCNU prosperity and success. May the campus be filled with joy and may SCNU continue to thrive. Holding hands with the university, let us create a future filled with blossoming flowers and write a new chapter together with SCNU!

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