At just 20 years old, Aleksandra Petukhova from Russia has embarked on a journey that blends her passion for languages with a deep dive into Chinese culture. Her story is one of curiosity, determination, and the joy of discovery.

From a young age, Petukhova was captivated by foreign languages. Her journey began in high school, where she excelled in English and passed the IELTS exam. Fueled by a desire for further linguistic and cultural immersion, she made the bold decision to move to Shanghai to pursue her studies after graduation.

Upon arriving in China, Petukhova faced the daunting challenge of not being able to speak Chinese. Within a year, she not only passed the HSK Level 4 exam but also secured a place at Donghua University, majoring in Chinese Language.

Her life as an international student is vibrant and fulfilling. From Monday to Friday, Petukhova follows a rigorous academic schedule. Her proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing Chinese has improved significantly, and she is now preparing for the HSK Level 5 exam with confidence.

Beyond academics, Petukhova takes part in a variety of extracurricular activities, including company visits, volunteer work, and language practice sessions, enabling her to make friends from around the world.

Figure skating, which Petukhova has been doing since the age of four, remains a cherished part of her life. Skating was once her primary focus, with six training sessions a week and numerous competitions. A highlight was competing in a world-class event in the United Kingdom in 2020, where she and her team claimed second place. Now, in Shanghai, skating remains a beloved hobby, and she enjoys practicing with friends who share her enthusiasm.

As she contemplates her future, Petukhova remains open-minded. While she hasn't settled on a definitive post-graduation career path, she is certain about her desire to remain in China to continue to enrich her life.

Source: Official WeChat account of Donghua University International Cultural Exchange School at "dhu-ices"