《Memories in Chang'an University》

Name：Zhang Juanli
Nationality：China
University：Chang'an University

In June, 2010, I came to Chang’an University after graduation with the Master’s degree and have been an English teacher here ever since. As a teacher who has been in this university for years, I have witnessed the changes and growth of both the campus and students. The school environment has been improved constantly. The renovated canteens, newly-built indoor swimming pool, grand playground, ever-green surroundings, all of which make the campus a perfect place for the students to spend their precious school years here.

When I look back on the past years, I find it hard to chronicle what has happened during these past years. What come to my mind are some fragmented pictures and events that form my memories here. I remember that during the outbreak of the Covid-19 epidemic, students were not able to return to school as planned. When I took a walk on campus one evening, I found the whole campus was immersed in miserable emptiness and loneliness. I realized it’s the students who gave liveliness and vigor to campus. Without them, the campus is nothing but a bleak and wild field.

Also, I remember the spark of curiosity and passion in the eyes of the freshmen when they entered this university. Still, in the graduation season, the smiling faces of students in their graduation gowns are the most beautiful pictures on campus that will draw the attention of people passing around them.

The Chinese character “长” has two pronunciations. Thus , there is a popular saying that “在长（chang）大长（zhang）大”, which means to grow up in Chang’an University. I feel lucky that I can witness the growth of the students and be a participant of their youth, the golden years of one’s life, and this company, in turn, will also become my best memories.

The tree in this picture is in its full blossom. What makes the tree impressive is that it boasts flowers of three different colors in one single tree, and the statue next to it is the landmark symbol nicknamed “the Goddess of Lamian noodles”. The reason why it got this hilarious nickname was because the statue girl, who was obviously doing gymnastics, reminded people the scene of a person pulling noodles with hands.

This is a trail, with sunflowers at each side, links students’ dormitories with teaching buildings, which means students can enjoy the beauty and fragrance when they are on the way for class. The blossom adds a trace of romance to this otherwise dull road.

The cats are the campus celebrities. For them, to grow up in Chang’an university is not a bad thing, considering the warm sunshine, yummy food, and most of all, the company and care from the students.

This is the big hall of a teaching building. Sometimes, you can just slow down a bit, take a seat, take out your favorite book, and then you can just spend a relaxing and languid afternoon in this tranquility.

This picture was taken in the winter of 2021 when the epidemic was in its peak and the post-graduate entrance exam was around the corner. The chill of the winter cold and the rampancy of the epidemic could not stop the footsteps of those who chased their dreams.