"If you want to achieve excellence, you can get there today." To achieve your dreams, all you need is commitment, faith, consistency and hard work. This is my story. My name is Sidney Mangenda Tshiaba. I am from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. After graduating from University of Ghana and Zhejiang University of Technology, I decided to continue my education in Jiangsu University of Science and Technology. 

In the quest of finding the best university with distinguished faculties and facilities, I came across Jiangsu University of Science and Technology where I applied and was accepted for graduate studies. 

The decision to pursue my education in Jiangsu University of Science and Technology was primarily based on the academic facilities, the global standards of education and the warmth of the Chinese people and above all, the fact that Jiangsu province and China as a whole has become a second home for African students. Jiangsu is one of the most beautiful, wealthiest provinces in China and home to the mighty Yangtze River. 

China is a magnificent country. The country has earned research prestige in almost all field of humanities and sciences. These achievements are attracting a large number of international students across the globe to study in China. The Sino-Africa relations have further opened windows for economic, trade, education, research and social exchange. 

The two years I spent in Jiangsu have further justified my fascination in the region. It’s beautiful scenery, unique food and most importantly it’s amazing people. I have been witnessing the grit of determination and limitless ingenuity of people who want nothing more than a better life for their families and themselves. The speed of development from within is astonishing. Skyscrapers rise from the ground and roads being built every day; the city is being remodeled in front of my eyes. Shopping malls are appearing on corners of every street. 

Coming to Jiangsu was a great way to become a world citizen and develop a global mindset. When I first arrived in Zhenjiang, I thought I would learn about Chinese culture and so many other different cultures, and I did. I have had a chance to meet people from all around the world and share with them ideas. Living in Jiangsu makes me realize that I am part of a bigger picture and that the connections I have made throughout the world will be important in the future as the world is becoming increasingly interconnected. 

My university experiences and the city of Zhenjiang thus far have been amazing. I have experienced and learned so many things within this period of time. I am still discovering all the opportunities that university offers me. Jiangsu University of Science and Technology is a very welcoming place. The Chinese people are full of warmth, welcoming nature, loving and friendly. 

The classes were all conducted in English and teachers were well abreast in the language. The school had strict rules pertaining to class attendances and lateness. Hence, students were always about five minutes present before classes began. Dormitories were close to the classrooms and for those who had classes on any of the other campuses, buses were provided to take them to the campuses ten minutes before the start of all classes. It was somewhat difficult to justify being late to any class or activity. 

Accommodation given to international students were suitable and up to international standards. There was easy access to the internet, kitchens and air-conditioning in the rooms. The security of the students was assured. Easy access to market and supermarkets. 

The university has more than five hundred international students and I found it to be very multicultural with students from countries from all over the world. During my two years, the university took students to visit different Zhenjiang historical sites as well as experience the Chinese culture. 

I would argue this study experience in Jiangsu University of Science and Technology has further deepened my fascination of China and certainly made me want to do my Ph.D. which gives me the opportunity to achieve my dream of one day becoming a professor and a voice for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and China. I am grateful toward Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, the people of Jiangsu for welcoming me to be an integrated part of their wonderful society. This was my experience in Jiangsu University of Science and Technology and I would recommend any student from the four corners of the world to come study at this great university. If you ask me “Do you like Jiangsu?” My answer would be “I don’t like Jiangsu, I love Jiangsu” 

Jiangsu is a province everyone should visit and Jiangsu University of Science and Technology provides a great environment to allow you to have a structured learning of Chinese language, culture and academics but also allows you the invitation to explore China on your own and to discover that little bit more about yourself and what you can do if you are just that little bit braver. There are abundant opportunities for International students with determination to be successful in the fields of the choices.

2018 Lantern Festival Celebration at 西津渡，镇江。

2018 Lantern Festival Celebration at 西津渡，镇江。

2018 Spring Festival paper cutting in 镇江

2018 Spring Festival paper cutting in 镇江