Dana: My Story of Chinese Hanzi

On October 12th, the finals for the 2021 "My Story of Chinese Hanzi" International Competition were held in Xining. Ten finalists from all over the world delivered speeches within seven-minute focusing on the theme of Chinese character "Ren", which represents benevolence.  

Dana, a student majoring in International Education of Chinese Language in CCNU,  stood out and won the first prize. She shared her story using fluent Chinese and fully expressed her opinions on the words said by Mencius,"The benevolent love others."（仁者爱人）

"Benevolence and righteousness from China better the world." This is the main idea Dana wanted to convey to the audience. "When the epidemic swept over Wuhan, we overseas students were scared at first. But with the help of the Chinese government and our school, we pulled through together. Wuhan's fight against the epidemic is an epitome of China's strength, and I start with it to draw people's attention to China's true kindness."  

Dana in the competition

When talking about her journey of learning Chinese, Dana said, "I started my learning from Pinyin and found it was so hard. I kept hearing and speaking day in and day out, and with constant practice. When I could say some everyday Chinese, I showed it to my friends and families. All the small progress led me to where I am today."

Studying in CCNU is a meaningful and significant stage of learning Chinese culture for Dana. "When I first enrolled at CCNU, I felt a little afraid and nervous. But the warm welcome of the college made me feel at home. What I have learnt from my teachers and classmates such as speaking Mandarin, playing tai chi, and making dumplings were quite precious for me. Everything here makes me crazier about learning Chinese."

 Dana speaking Mandarin and playing Taichi

In daily life, Dana likes eating Chinese delicacies. "You know hot noodles with sesame sauce in dining halls of CCNU? They leave me a deep impression. Wherever I taste them, I feel as if I have come back to Wuhan, back to CCNU!"

Dana making dumplings with classmates

In CCNU, she also harvests good relationships, which she considers as precious treasure. "What will you do after graduation?" we asked her. "I want to  continue learning more about Chinese culture here and spread it to my country. And I really hope more and more people can like Chinese culture and learn it in the future like me!" Dana said firmly and excitedly. 

Q&A

Q

With what kind of opportunities, you chose to come to China and learn Chinese?

My family has had a significant influence on me. My parents' dream is to let me study Chinese from the early years of primary school. They have a special attitude towards China. They think that China will take the lead globally in economic growth and technological advancement in the future. Moreover, they are very interested in Chinese history and culture and admire its extensive and profound influence.

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Q

Is there anything that impresses you most in learning Chinese?

What impressed me most was the pandemic outbreak in China.  Studying Chinese in China during the pandemic has been an exceptional experience for me. It has also helped me understand more about the Chinese people, government, and spirit.

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Q

Can you share some good methods of learning Chinese for other Chinese learners?

Integrate into the Chinese language environment, persist in long-term learning, communicate with Chinese bravely, and enhance your sense of language. Don't be afraid to be laughed at or not understood. Only by a comprehensive understanding of your knowledge can the learned skills be flexibly applied to your ability.

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Editor: Jared (trainee), Hebe, Flamin, Nan chen, Yudan Ding 

Revisor: Galaxy

Designer: Bianca (trainee)

Interviewer: Siri (trainee), Chesterine

Video: Wuhan Waishi