Growth, Gratitude and Pursuit: My Three-Year Study Journey at Harbin Medical University
成长，感恩与笃行：我的哈医大三年求学之旅
——巴基斯坦籍2023级免疫学专业硕士研究生Abid Ali（阿比德・阿里）
Over the past three years at Harbin Medical University, my journey as an international student has been one of growth, resilience, and gratitude. I still remember arriving in Harbin for the first time, seeing snow everywhere and feeling both excited and uncertain. Being far from home, the beginning was not easy.
The language barrier made even simple conversations challenging, cultural differences required constant adjustment, and the academic environment demanded discipline and persistence. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed and doubted myself. However, what helped me move forward was the kindness and patience of the people around me. My teachers and supervisor, especially Professor Jian Ma and his research team, supported me step by step with great dedication. They did not only teach me scientific knowledge, but also showed me how to stay patient, remain focused, and believe in my own progress. Their continuous guidance and encouragement gave me confidence during difficult times, and for this, I feel deeply grateful.
My life at Harbin Medical University was not limited to studying. Through activities organized by the College of International Education and Exchange (CIE), various cultural events, and programs like “Perception of China,” I experienced a rich and meaningful campus life that extended far beyond the classroom. I actively participated in cultural, extracurricular, and academic activities organized by Harbin Medical University and other institutions in Harbin.
These included joining the WuShu team and performing Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan at university events, participating in the Modern Evening Power Walking Competition, taking part in the “Perception of China” program with visits to Daqing City, the Daqing Petroleum Science and Technology Museum, Mao’er Shan Mountain, and the Wudalianchi Scenic Area, as well as specialized programs such as Experience Heilongjiang” and ecological agriculture exploration. In addition, I served as a student judge in the “6th Teaching Competition,” contributing to the evaluation of English teaching for young university teachers in Heilongjiang Province.
Together, these experiences played a vital role in shaping my personal and academic development. They broadened my perspective, strengthened my confidence, deepened my understanding of Chinese culture, and helped me build meaningful connections. More importantly, they transformed my experience from simply studying abroad into truly living, learning, and belonging in China, for which I am sincerely thankful.
My research journey was full of challenges. There were long hours in the laboratory, repeated experiments, and many moments when results did not go as expected. At times, I questioned myself, but I learned to keep going. With the continuous encouragement and careful guidance from my supervisor, along with the supportive academic environment provided by my supervisor, I gradually understood that progress comes step by step. Every failure taught me something important, and every small improvement gave me motivation to continue.
Through this journey, I was able to make steady academic progress and build a strong research profile, including multiple SCI-indexed publications and one academic book chapter, with contributions to international journals with impact factors (IF up to 12.8). I also actively presented my research at national and international conferences and was honored twice with the Best Research Award at the 2nd and 3rd Sino-Foreign Student Research Forum at Harbin Medical University.
However, what matters most to me is not just the achievements, but the journey behind them the effort, learning, and continuous support from my supervisor and the university. These accomplishments reflect both my work and the collective support of my teachers.
Looking back, I feel a deep emotional connection to both Harbin and China. This country has given me opportunities, shaped my perspective, and helped me grow into a more confident and determined person. Harbin Medical University has been more than an institution it has been a place where I learned, struggled, improved, and found my direction. My teachers have been more than mentors they have been a source of inspiration and strength, and I will always be grateful for their support and trust.
Looking ahead, I am honored to continue my academic journey as a doctoral student at the School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, supported by the China Scholarship Council (CSC). I will carry forward the knowledge, values, and experiences I have gained, and strive to contribute to the field of public health and biomedical science.
This journey reflects not only my personal efforts but also the strong support and training provided by my university and mentors. I will always remain grateful for this experience and the opportunities that Harbin Medical University have given me.
