Me, DMU, and the Belt and Road

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一起怀着希望，拥抱暖意，不负春光，不负梦想。愿春回大地时，万物更新、硝烟皆逝。没有一个冬天不可逾越，没有一个春天不会到来。灾难总是突如其来，但这种时候我们更该众志成城、团结一心。我们相信，一切终将过去，定会春暖花开。

我与“留学海大”主题一等奖

1st Prize of Me and “Study in DMU” theme

Me, DMU, and the Belt and Road

“My dream is in China and DMU makes my dream come true!”

Narthsirinth Netirith (林喜微)

 from Thailand, PhD student majoring in Logistics Engineering and Management

Abstract:The foundation of my academic journey in China lies in the diplomacy between Thailand and China. These historical connections have fostered social interactions, educational opportunities, and thriving bound relations between our two nations. Me and study at DMU shared my academic experiences the life at DMU, formed strong international friendships, and participated in cultural events. This story is closely connected to the One Belt One Road (OBOR) Initiative to foster global cooperation. 'Me, DMU, and One Belt One Road' symbolizes unity, collaboration, and endless possibilities."

Keywords:One Belt One Road, Thailand, China, Dalian Maritime University ( DMU)

1. Introduction

The “Blue Dream” a beautiful dream like a name. Dreams are the blueprints of success. This dream is full of hope, aspirations and visions of our ancestors transmitted from one generation to the next. The future cannot foresee that the "Blue Dream" would turn millions of people's dreams into reality, but it happened in China. Who knows that a Thai lady will someday come to China as a Ph.D. student to pursue her studies and make her own dream come true? This dream became a reality, and her story became an inspiring tale of courage, reminding us of all that dreams that come true.

Did you know about China? I believe that every person in this world knows China from various perspectives. I have known about China since I was young. China is a big country, rich in culture and tradition. It is one of the big dragons in Asia. The story about China has become an integral part of my life, and the environment around me nurtures my deep fascination and dreams of visiting this country. Currently, China is at the forefront of scientific and technological education, making it a dream and a hope-filled destination for the young generation of my country. They are inspired and determined to visit China.

Thailand and China have had a longstanding and multifaceted relationship since 1767. This partnership brings various aspects of economic, food, cultural, and diplomatic that bind these two nations together. Thailand and China continue to stand hand in hand as steadfast development partners. Noteworthy among China's contributions to Thailand's development is the concept of Friendship and family as this quote 中泰一家亲, which means “Thailand and China are like family” strengthening the bonds and relations between the two nations.  At present, Thailand and China are engaged in several projects like One Belt One Road initiative which reflects their ongoing cooperation.

In this article, my primary goal is to share my experience and adventures as an international student living and studying at Dalian Maritime University (DMU). I will share insights into academic, cultural, and my personal aspects of life at the university to inspire others to explore the beauty and wonder of China and consider it as a destination for their dreams. Additionally, I will discuss the challenges and achievements I've encountered during my learning and research journey.

2. My Journey to China

My journey to China came from my university lectureship in Thailand. One day, destiny presented a wonderful opportunity for me to join the business trip with my dean to visit DMU. We received a warm welcome from all the teachers and staff at DMU, and I was deeply impressed by the beauty and warmth of the institution. This experience motivated me to consider DMU (should be here only in DMU!) as the destination for my future academic endeavors, particularly pursuing a Ph.D. in management. Choosing China for my doctoral studies has always proven to be a wise decision. Currently, I am in my final year of Ph.D. and DMU continues to provide me with an excellent education in the field of maritime transportation and engineering.

3. Living and Studying in DMU

My academic experiences at DMU have consistently been enriching and enlightening. As a student, I had the privilege of studying and living in a high-quality environment. In 2019, my first adventure came true when I was granted a full scholarship by the Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC) for my Ph.D. studies in Logistics Engineering. This opportunity allowed me to explore a wide range of courses, interact with dedicated professors, and engage with diverse teaching methods, all of which significantly contributed to my overall educational growth.

The curriculum was meticulously designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, balancing theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Furthermore, the professors are highly knowledgeable and passionate about their respective fields, providing warm and effective teaching to enhance my understanding. My experience at the university was not only about acquiring knowledge; it was a holistic educational journey that prepared me for the challenges and opportunities in the field of maritime education and beyond.

As mentioned earlier, DMU is a university leading the way in modernization. It is not just an academic institution but also a nurturing and empowering environment where students can truly flourish. With a rich history spanning over 100 years, stunning architecture, and modern amenities like a state-of-the-art library and an innovation laboratory. DMU offers a comprehensive and enriching educational experience that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and cultural understanding needed for personal development. This dual focus on personal growth and academic excellence makes it a standout institution in higher education. One of the facilities that fills me with pride as a part of DMU is the YUKUN training vessel owned by the university. This vessel is equipped with cutting-edge technology and provides students with full training facilities. It serves as a platform for students to gain valuable practical experience in their respective fields of study.

Life on the campus at DMU is a treasure trove of unforgettable moments that I am eager to share with the world. It marks a remarkable chapter in my life. Life at DMU is a celebration of diversity in academic pursuits and shared dreams. Each day presents a unique opportunity to connect and learn, forging warm bonds with Chinese and international friends. Every single day at DMU is wonderful, offering a world of opportunities waiting to be explored.

4. Publication and Academic performance

Studying at DMU has undoubtedly been one of the most rewarding choices I've ever made. As a PhD candidate, I have achieved success in research publication and have had the opportunity to attend several academic conferences and forums. Currently, I am in the process of preparing my paper for publication, working towards the successful completion of my Ph.D. My primary research focuses on infrastructure connectivity within the RCEP region, encompassing Thailand and China. This research holds great potential for fostering development, regional integration, and improved transportation networks within RCEP.

Among the academic contributions I have made are:

1. Analysis of the Efficiency of Transport Infrastructure Connectivity and Trade.

2. The optimization of transport route from Chon Buri, Thailand to Kunming, China by Using AHP and TOPSIS.

3. The New Key Performance in Enhancing Infrastructure Connectivity in the RCEP.

All these studies share a common goal: to enhance transportation connectivity and facilitate trade within the context of regional integration in the RCEP region. In addition to my academic research, I had the opportunity to attend the World Transport Convention 2023 in Wuhan, where I presented my academic paper titled "Hub Port Selection in Thailand to Support Infrastructure Connectivity and International Trade in RCEP" as an author. This conference is one of the good memories in my life, as it allowed me to establish valuable connections within the academic community and engage in activities with international students in Wuhan, leading to the creation of stronger friendships and lasting memories.

5.  Friendships  “A true friend is forever a friend."

Campus life is more than just academics and amenities; it's about nurturing lasting friendships and active participation. Friendships at DMU are priceless because real companionship knows no limits. "A true friend is forever a friend," signifying those who come from across the world to be here. These friendships last a lifetime, providing us strength, support, and happiness. The lessons, laughter, and experiences we share at the university stay with us forever.

International students from all around the world come to DMU to study and live together. We share dreams, face challenges, and have fun which strengthens our bonds. DMU is like an exciting playground with streets, mountains, and the sea to explore. My friends and I made unforgettable memories here. In DMU, one will never feel alone because here friendships last forever.

6. Cultures is more than a culture in DMU

During my time at Dalian Maritime University, I had the privilege of participating in several memorable cultural experiences and events that enriched my understanding of Chinese culture and created lasting memories. One of the unforgettable moments was the Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) Celebrations. The campus came alive with bright red decorations, tradition, and the exchange of red envelopes (hongbao) filled with good wishes. It was a time of unity and festive joy, where international and local students came together to mark the beginning of the lunar new year. The cultural exchange during this time was heartwarming and allowed me to learn more about the customs and traditions associated with Chinese New Year. The Dragon Boat Festival, with the making of zongzi, provided a deeper insight into this cultural tradition. It was a day of excitement, camaraderie, and cultural appreciation. I also had the opportunity to join tea ceremonies , the Mid-autumn festival and other activities provided by the school.

These memorable cultural experiences and events at DMU were not only entertaining but also offered a deeper appreciation of Chinese culture, fostering meaningful cross-cultural exchange among international students. They created lasting memories and promoted a sense of unity among international and local students, making my time at DMU even more enriching and memorable.

7. Me DMU and one belt one road

The One Belt One Road (OBOR) Initiative has significantly shaped my academic journey. DMU has played a crucial role in helping me achieve my academic goals and gain valuable cross-cultural experiences. DMU's strong commitment to international collaboration and building relationships with OBOR countries has enabled me to lead in OBOR-related academic and cultural exchanges as an international student. The OBOR Initiative is an essential backdrop to my studies in logistics engineering and management due to its focus on enhancing connectivity, infrastructure development, and economic cooperation among participating nations. This has given me the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the potential and real-world impacts of this extensive international initiative.

My involvement with OBOR and my time at DMU go hand in hand. I have participated in discussions and research related to transportation and logistics along the OBOR routes, expanding my academic interests and preparing me to tackle the logistical challenges and opportunities brought by this massive project. I look forward to a future where the partnership between Me, DMU, and the One Belt One Road Initiative continues to thrive and progress together.

8. My future and my plan after DMU

The One Belt One Road project is moving fast, and I, along with my students from Thailand, can't wait to start this journey after I finish my Ph.D. It's aligned with my academic goals and the ambitious One Belt One Road (OBOR) Initiatives. This time, I intend to return with a Ph.D. and continue to expand on my previous work as a lecturer, inspiring my students and the next generation to understand the importance of promoting global cooperation and strengthening connections between Thailand and China in line with OBOR principles.

My plan is to become a bridge between different cultures and nations, utilizing my global perspective to facilitate communication and collaboration among OBOR countries and work together, encouraging a spirit of cooperation and understanding. The most significant aspect of my journey is my commitment to "Giving back to DMU." As an alumnus of DMU, I am dedicated to contributing to the university, which played a significant role in my academic development. This may involve mentoring current students, engaging in research initiatives, or promoting international relations that align with OBOR objectives.

9. Conclusion

The "Blue Dream" that originated with my arrival in China has become a shared dream. My story reflects the spirit of unity, collaboration, and endless possibilities that define the partnership between Thailand and China. I have shared my academic experiences, explored life at DMU, formed strong international friendships, participate in cultural events contributing to a deeper understanding between countries and their people. This story is closely connected to the One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative's values and goals for our future, which aims to foster global cooperation. “Me, DMU, and One Belt One Road' is one of the wonderful journey as a symbol of unity and endless possibilities, reflecting the positive impact of such partnerships and global initiatives.

Author

I am Narthsirinth Netirith from Chonburi, Thailand, renowned for its maritime history and charming coastline landscape. I am a doctoral student at Dalian Maritime University in Logistics Engineering and Management at Transportation Engineering College. Apart from my education, I am a lecturer at the Department of International Maritime Studies at Kasetsart University. My journey in academia and research contributed to logistics, maritime transportation, and infrastructure connectivity. Through education, research, and international cooperation, I believe we can create a better world and the opportunity to share, learn, and inspire as a part of the "Blue Dream."

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