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Editor's Note: The results of the fifth SCNU English Writing and Short Video Contest have been announced on the website of the Office of International Exchange & Cooperation of SCNU (see results). We congratulate all prize winners on their outstanding performance. Winning entries will be published in this column.
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By Fang Aisi
"I have a dream that on the day when the community with a shared future for mankind is established, I can proudly say that I have contributed my part", says Wei Dong smiling.
Sailing from SCNU: French Culture Leads the Way
Out of her interest in language learning, Wei Dong chose to major in French. In the embrace of South China Normal University (SCNU), Wei Dong embarked on her journey with French. French was not just the language of her major but also the key to a broader world. During her studies, she loved the course "Cultures of French-Speaking Countries", which not only provided her with a deep understanding of the diverse geography and rich humanities of French-speaking nations but also served as a window, broadening her horizons and expanding her knowledge.
Through studying the economies and industries of different countries, she developed a keen interest, which laid a solid foundation for her future work in the field of international economics and trade, and ignited her passion for cross-cultural exchange and international cooperation. The professor of this course, with his erudition and inspiring teaching methods, became a guiding light on her career path, leading her to explore a broader world. Here in SCNU, a seed of wanting to go out into the world has quietly sprouted. Learning French was just her first step to building the bridge of international development.
Broadening horizon in UCL: Make Steps More Determined
"Further study is an important way to realize one's self-worth", Wei says. After completing her undergraduate studies, she made an important decision: to go on and pursue a master's degree at the Catholic University of Louvain (CUL) in Belgium in 2017. "One day I realized that language's power requires support from knowledge in various other fields." Among so many disciplines, without hesitation, she chose courses related to the field of international economics and trade.
"I can't learn everything, so after some thought, I want to continue with the business knowledge I learned in SCNU and delve deeper into economics and trade. And I think I've found what I want to do, I should stick to it." When asked about her time studying at the CUL, Wei said, "My learning experience at the CUL not only allowed me to think from an international perspective but also taught me to form independent views without blindly following media or popular opinions."
The overseas study experience was a journey of self-challenge and growth, where she continuously explored and adapted to new environments, stimulating her vitality and curiosity. It laid a solid foundation for her future career. Step by step, she walks with increasing determination.
Shining in the World: Learn More, Do More, Contribute More
With her excellent language skills and extensive knowledge base, she served as an assistant to a member of the European Parliament in Brussels and interned at the Brussels Invest & Export Agency. During her time as an assistant, Wei's primary duties included attending policy discussions and international conferences. She was also fortunate to be involved in the preparation of financial technology forums and the hosting of governmental and corporate delegations.
Working in the European Parliament became the first significant stage of Wei Dong's career. Here, each listening session and record-taking moment opened doors to the world for her. She learned how to communicate effectively in a multicultural environment and how to find her voice in complex international affairs. This experience, like a spiritual baptism, gave her a profound understanding of the essence of diplomacy - not just a dialogue between nations but a heart-to-heart exchange.
Of course, international communications are not always plain sailing. After that, following her graduation, she worked as an investment officer at both the Walloon Region Commercial Office of the Belgian Embassy in Guangzhou and the Swiss Embassy in Guangzhou. During her work, Wei Dong faced challenges stemming from language and cultural differences.
"In my work, I constantly engage with people from diverse countries and regions, each possessing unique cultures and customs. Initially, I made occasional mistakes as I sought to understand them." Fortunately, through active learning and adaptation, especially through close cooperation with her team, she has successfully overcome these difficulties. "I know," firmly says Wei, "facing challenges with a positive attitude and relentless effort is the key to success."
Over the years, she has dedicated herself to promoting economic and trade cooperation as well as international exchange, accumulating rich experience in these fields. She has actively participated in and hosted numerous significant events, including the economic and trade delegation visit to China led by Princess Astrid of Belgium, organizing business exchange at the Consumer Electronics Show in the United States, and the 2023 Greater Bay Area Sino-Swiss Economic Forum. With her excellent diplomatic skills and extensive practical experience, she has demonstrated outstanding diplomatic prowess and leadership abilities.
Wei Dong's growth journey deeply inspires those around her. She firmly believes in the power of sharing and mentoring. Despite her hectic schedule, she has never turned down invitations to return to South China Normal University to share her experience. Every time she returns, she patiently and gently narrates her growth story, passing on her experience and insights to younger students, encouraging them to be down-to-earth, bravely face imperfections, and keep moving forward.
"Don't be afraid, learn more, do more, contribute more, that's why we are here in the world", says Wei Dong.
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