[Benin] Orou Yerima Bio Noel, Wuhan University
Dream with China
My journey to China started in Sept 2016 when I came to study for my Master’s Degree in International Law and Chinese Law. I was fascinated by subjects such as International Trade Law and International Economic Law.
One year after my graduation I decided to pursue my studies in the School of Law of Wuhan University. During this second opportunity of studying in China, I learned Chinese language and culture and passed the Chinese proficiency test at level of HSK 5, which means that I can read Chinese newspapers and magazines, enjoy Chinese films and plays and give a full-length speech in Chinese.
My admission to the HSK 5 has been the first steps of my dream with China. Now, I can say, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step". The second phase of my journey is my admission to the Character and Academic Excellence Award in 2020. I want to keep that good character and look for better achievements in my major as the journey is still going.
My Goals in WHU
I have to do everything on time. Never procrastinate. No matter how I feel, I have to learn something new. It may be in my major, in Chinese language or from schoolmates. That is why I have chosen the school library as my favorite study room. That place increases my inspiration and determination, especially when I am in front of this image that says: "If there is a heaven in the world, it must be some kind of library."
Apart from my studies, I dedicated myself to creating a joyful and friendly environment for the students. I have organized two basketball groups: one for men and the other for women. I am also a member of the sports department of Wuhan University International Student Union (WISU). My objective is to help provide excitement and help students avoid a boring life.
Being in good health requires not only physical exercises but also having fun together with friends from different cultures and different school grades. Being a student in an international community is a chance for your future.
I also participated in many activities organized by the school. During these activities, I learnt about Chinese culture and Chinese tea culture. My journey in China is rich with activities. From cultural activities to conferences, I am trying to make a connection between my home state Benin and China.
I keep improving different activities like the previous one which contributed for my awards such as the Chinese Government Scholarship for Outstanding International Students in China from 2016 to 2018, the Chinese Government Scholarship for Outstanding International Students to Study Chinese in 2019 and the Wuhan University Outstanding International Student Character and Academic Excellence Award in 2020.
My Research Plan
One of my biggest plans is to develop my career in International Economic Law. My research focuses on the legal perspective for building a community of shared future for mankind. I consider every single day as an opportunity to learn and get closer to my goals. I want to achieve the results which will be useful for legal analysis.
I hope this little story of my experience as a PhD student in China helps pave the way for the next generations. The elders who studied at Wuhan University have made great strides, changing foreign perceptions of Chinese education.
Today, we are lucky to have the learning facilities the school has provided for us. Therefore, we should know how to adapt these facilities in our own countries. I hope my commitment as an international student will inspire others for the benefit of their country and of the world. If we study every day, success will be ours.
