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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 Liao Yanming
Introduction
Nestled within the vibrant and bustling campus of South China Normal University (SCNU), there exists a figure who, though often quiet and unassuming, possesses a heart filled with an unwavering determination. This is Xiao Lin, whose story is like a tapestry woven with threads of perseverance and dedication, vividly embodying the noble spirit of a SCNU alumnus.
The Unseen Helper
Xiao Lin, an exemplary SCNU student, was renowned for his reserved yet endearing demeanor and an incredibly meticulous work ethic that seemed to be ingrained in his very being. During his four-year sojourn at the university, he was the unsung hero of our dormitory, a constant source of comfort and support. His acts of kindness were as numerous as the stars in the night sky. In the dimly lit study rooms, he would patiently explain complex academic concepts to classmates who were struggling. His voice, soft yet clear, would cut through the confusion like a warm ray of sunshine, making those intricate theories seem almost simple.
Not only was he a boon to his peers within the campus walls, but he also extended his helping hand to the teachers. He would volunteer to assist in organizing teaching materials, his nimble fingers sorting through papers with utmost care, ensuring that everything was in perfect order for the next class. His willingness to help truly knew no bounds.
Beyond the campus, Xiao Lin's kindness blossomed like a beautiful flower. One sunny afternoon, as he was walking down a busy street, he noticed an elderly woman struggling with her heavy bags. Without a moment's hesitation, he rushed to her side, his face showing genuine concern. With a smile that could melt hearts, he relieved her of the burden and escorted her safely to her destination.
There was also an instance that remains etched in our memories like a beautiful carving. One of our fellow students fell seriously ill during a crucial period of the semester, causing him to miss an important exam. Xiao Lin, like a guardian angel, stepped in without being asked. He spent countless hours after class, poring over textbooks and notes with the sick student. In the quiet of the dormitory, their voices would blend in a harmonious rhythm of learning as Xiao Lin patiently tutored him. He even created personalized study guides, filled with colorful diagrams and easy-to-understand examples. Thanks to his selfless efforts, the student not only caught up on the missed studies but also managed to pass the test with flying colors.
The Badminton Champion
Xiao Lin's passion for badminton burned like an eternal flame within him. The badminton court was his kingdom, and he was its most dedicated ruler. Every morning, as the first rays of the sun peeked through the campus trees, he would be there, racket in hand, ready to start his daily training session. His movements were a sight to behold - like a graceful dancer, he would glide across the court, his eyes fixed on the shuttlecock with an intensity that was almost palpable.
During a particularly intense university tournament, the air on the badminton court was thick with excitement and tension. Xiao Lin, representing our dormitory, stood at the center of the storm. His opponents were formidable, each with their own set of skills and strategies. But Xiao Lin was undeterred. His face glistened with sweat, yet his grip on the racket remained firm. In one crucial match, the score was neck-and-neck. The shuttlecock flew back and forth with lightning speed, and every rally seemed to hold the breath of the spectators. With a powerful smash that seemed to defy gravity, Xiao Lin won the decisive point, sending our team into a frenzy of celebration. His determination and skill led our team to victory, securing the coveted championship title, and etching his name in the annals of the university's badminton history.
Overcoming Adversity
In his final, nerve-wracking year at SCNU, Xiao Lin joined us in the arduous journey of preparing for postgraduate entrance exams. His study corner in the dormitory was a fortress of books and notes, a testament to his unwavering dedication. Every day, he would rise before the sun, his eyes bleary with sleep but his mind focused on the task at hand. He spent hours poring over textbooks, his fingers tracing the lines as if trying to absorb the knowledge through touch.
However, fate can be a cruel mistress. When the results of the initial exam were announced, Xiao Lin's heart sank like a stone. The scores were far from what he had hoped for, and the disappointment was almost suffocating. But Xiao Lin was not one to be defeated easily. In the days that followed, he retreated into himself, analyzing his mistakes with a surgeon's precision. He adjusted his study approach, incorporating new techniques and strategies. He sought advice from professors and seniors, his eagerness to learn shining through his setbacks. Late at night, the faint glow of his desk lamp could be seen through the dormitory window as he continued his studies, fueled by an unwavering determination. Eventually, his hard work paid off, and he secured a job that was not only in line with his interests but also a stepping - stone to a promising future.
Professional Growth
After graduation, Xiao Lin embarked on a new adventure, working in various cities that were like vibrant canvases of opportunity. In Guangzhou, he immersed himself in the fast-paced business environment, learning the ropes of the corporate world. The city's bustling streets and towering skyscrapers were a backdrop to his growth. He then moved to Shenzhen, a city known for its innovation and dynamism. Here, he faced new challenges and absorbed new experiences like a sponge, constantly evolving.
Finally, he settled in Changsha, a city with its own unique charm. It was here that he found a job in a cosmetics company as a planner. The world of cosmetics was a new and exciting frontier for him. He delved into market research, spending hours analyzing consumer trends and preferences. His creative mind came alive as he designed marketing strategies, his ideas flowing like a river of inspiration. His hard work and talent were like a bright light that couldn't be ignored. Soon, he caught the attention of his superiors and colleagues alike. He climbed the corporate ladder with grace and determination, becoming a key member of the team, his influence felt in every decision and project.
Xiao Lin's story is a resounding testament to the spirit of SCNU students. They are not just scholars confined to the ivory towers of academia but also beacons of positive energy in life and work. Their actions reflect the noble ethos of SCNU, painting a picture of hope and inspiration for others. Xiao Lin's journey is like a guiding star in the night sky, an inspiration to us all. It teaches us that with the unwavering combination of perseverance and determination, we can shatter any obstacle that stands in our way. His story is a glorious beacon of hope, illuminating the path that leads to a brighter, more fulfilling future.
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