As the spring semester unfolds, four freshman students—Aileen Sierends Davina, a Chinese Indonesian from East Java; Théo Liennard, hailing from the picturesque landscapes of France; Aruzhan Amangazy, representing Kazakhstan; and Chico Manna, bursting with energy from Brazil—reflect on their transformative first-year experiences at CUHK-Shenzhen.

Each has immersed themselves in academic studies while embracing the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and campus life. With tales of new friendships, cultural discoveries, and academic challenges, they eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead, excited to continue their journey in this vibrant setting.

Aileen Sierends Davina 

Indonesian, SME, Harmonia College

“It amazed me just how many opportunities there are to engage with different organisations...”

Reflections on the First Semester

In terms of academics, Davina finds the courses at CUHK-Shenzhen manageable, with a workload that suits her quite well. While she is determined to excel in her studies, she firmly believes that university life encompasses much more than just academics.

"I joined the International Students’ Association, worked as a student helper in the University’s Communications and Public Relations Office, and even applied to become a student ambassador for the International Admissions Team," she shares.

"It amazed me just how many opportunities there are to engage with different organisations. I think it’s a splendid idea to encourage students to gain real-world experience and learn to socialise within a professional context," Davina adds, emphasising that education extends beyond the confines of the classroom.

Most Unforgettable Memory

Davina, who identifies as Chinese Indonesian, has distant relatives in China whom she had never met until recently. Last December, she and her sister made the journey to Zhangzhou, where they were warmly embraced by their Chinese family.

“He’s my grandpa’s cousin, and his family resides in Zhangzhou. My sister reached out to them online quite simply, and we made the trip without any clear idea of what they looked like,” she recounts.

“They picked us up from the station, and right from that first meeting, a profound sense of family connection washed over us. They were incredibly kind, showering us with delicious food and ensuring we were well looked after every day. They are the best!”

Théo Liennard

French, one-year exchange student from EPITECH

“I even encountered one of the best teachers of my life... You can feel his passion for the subject, and he makes the lessons engaging for all of us...”

Reflections on the First Semester

Théo Liennard has expressed his satisfaction with his academic experience at CUHK-Shenzhen. “The professors are incredibly supportive and eager to engage with us,” he remarks. “I even encountered one of the best teachers of my life—our computer architecture professor! His classes are genuinely entertaining; you can feel his passion for the subject, and he makes the lessons engaging for all of us.”

Liennard also appreciates the campus atmosphere. “Everyone is warm and welcoming. It’s truly pleasant to interact with others and study alongside them,” he notes.

In Liennard’s eyes, the CUHK-Shenzhen campus is both beautiful and conveniently laid out, with Fairy Lake holding a special place in his heart. “Fairy Lake is splendid. I’ve never been much of a runner, but I’ve started jogging around it. Whenever I have doubts or simply need to clear my mind, I take a stroll there. Sometimes, I go to the lake just to watch the sunset—it’s breathtaking.”

Most Unforgettable Memory

During his first semester, Liennard participated in numerous activities, including a memorable trip to Shaoguan.

He and a group of other international students from Guangdong Province visited a local Chinese middle school, where they were warmly welcomed with traditional dances. The students took the opportunity to interact, and as they prepared to leave, the middle school pupils invited them to write their names and encouraging messages in their notebooks.

“The experience was unique,” Liennard reflects. “It was a moment of pure joy for both the students and us. Despite being foreigners, we were able to share our thoughts and experiences with them. When it came time to depart, it was quite heartbreaking; we were overwhelmed with a mix of emotions.”

Aruzhan Amangazy

Kazakhstani, SDS, Muse College

“I still study diligently, but I no longer chase perfection. I’ve become more relaxed...”

Reflections on the First Semester

A semester has flown by in the blink of an eye. For Aruzhan Amangazy, while the academic challenges were manageable, adapting to university life in a foreign country proved somewhat daunting. “It’s been a significant transition for me, but ultimately rewarding,” she remarks.

Last semester, Amangazy faced two exam periods. During the midterms, she found herself under considerable stress as she aimed for perfect scores. However, she gradually realised that rather than fixating on perfection, she wished to embrace the broader university experience.

“I still study diligently, but I no longer chase perfection. I’ve become more relaxed,” she shares, noting that she excelled in her finals.

Most Unforgettable Memory

Amangazy’s most memorable moment came on her first day at the university, September 2. “I was absolutely thrilled to be studying at such a prestigious institution, and the start of my freshman year felt like a dream,” she recalls.

She attended her first lectures during the day and later participated in a Freshman Ball that evening. “We danced a great deal, there were countless snacks, and I made so many friends.

“It was an incredibly enjoyable experience. Before that day, I had the impression that Chinese students were solely focused on their studies. But on that day, I witnessed how they also connect with one another and enjoy themselves,” she says, reflecting on the warmth and camaraderie she discovered.

Chico Manna

Brazilian, SME, Shaw College

“It opened numerous doors for me, as I gained recognition that significantly enhanced my social and professional life...”

Reflections on the First Semester

Chico Manna believes that the academic demands placed on students at CUHK-Shenzhen are both fair and manageable. “The workload is designed to encourage you to push yourself just beyond your limits while still allowing time to appreciate other aspects of life,” he explains.

He has also spoken highly of his professors, noting, “All the lecturers have been incredibly supportive whenever I’ve had questions. They possess a wealth of expertise in their subjects and are exceptionally skilled in their teaching.”

Outside of academics, Manna is thoroughly enjoying life in Shenzhen. As an avid hiker, he appreciates the city’s abundance of beautiful parks and hiking trails. The nearby metro station provides convenient access, enabling him to explore the city frequently with friends.

Most Unforgettable Memory

One of Manna’s standout memories from his first semester was being selected as a host for the university’s Mid-Autumn Festival Gala last September. This marked his debut as a host for a significant event at CUHK-Shenzhen.

“It opened numerous doors for me, as I gained recognition that significantly enhanced my social and professional life,” he remarks, noting that he became well-known on campus and was subsequently invited to participate in various activities and video projects.