Editor's Note;

Education, in our opinion at Zhejiang University, goes much beyond the classroom. Our goal is to develop well-rounded students who flourish in leadership and community service in addition to their academic success. Through a variety of programs, from extracurricular activities to academic mentoring, we hope to develop holistic medical practitioners with a global perspective. In this interview, we follow the story of Theodora Elva Then, a student from Indonesia who has taken advantage of these opportunities and who, in her first year at the institution, has shown development in her academic performance, service, and intercultural involvement.

When I first set foot on campus, a wave of overwhelming emotions hit me. A new place, a new environment. The towering buildings, the unfamiliar faces, the endless possibilities—it was both exhilarating and intimidating. I had always dreamed of attending university abroad, but now that I was finally here, doubt crept in. Would I fit in? Would I succeed? Was I ready for this new chapter of mine?

From the very beginning, university threw challenges that pushed me to my limits. The fast-paced lectures, the heavy workload, and the high expectations of being in such a competitive environment felt like a lot to handle. But instead of letting these challenges defeat me, I learned to adapt. I learned to reach out for help to my professors, teaching assistants, and fellow classmates. Because as I realized, seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is a strength that fosters growth.

Gradually, things began to click. The subjects started making sense. I performed well in my exams and assignments, proving to myself that with effort and the right support, I could overcome even the toughest obstacles.

Then came the harvest of hard work. At the beginning of my second year, I was awarded the Zhejiang Provincial Government Scholarship and the Honorary Title for Academic Excellence from Zhejiang University. Those moments of recognition weren't just external rewards. They fueled my determination even further, inspiring me to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to my studies.

But now, with these accomplishments behind me, I find myself wondering—have I found success?

With these awards and honors, one might say I have.

But have I truly? Is success solely defined by awards and recognition, or numbers printed on a transcript? Or is there something deeper—something beyond the tangible milestones?

What does success truly mean?

To some, success is measured by grades and accolades, but for me, it goes far beyond that.

As I compare my now-self, who is sitting here writing this article, to my past-self, I came to appreciate how much I have grown as a person. How far I have stepped out of my comfort zone. How I have taken on more responsibilities beyond my part as a student.

I stepped into the role of president in the Student Union: taking part in organizing activities, turning ideas into reality, collaborating with different people, and handling responsibilities that extended beyond textbooks. It was challenging, yes, but every event we successfully pulled off gave me confidence in my ability to lead and make an impact.

Beyond leadership, I found different parts of myself in the clubs I joined. The media club gave me a voice, a platform to connect with audiences worldwide through writing and social media. The badminton club became my escape—a place for me to unwind and bond with others over a shared passion. The thrill of matches and camaraderie built over practice sessions made it more than just a sport. Through the studying club, I stepped into the role of a peer mentor, guiding juniors through a subject I struggled with myself before. It was a full-circle moment, turning my past challenges into an opportunity to help others.

That sense of fulfillment grew even stronger when my team and I were honored with the International Student Recruitment Ambassador's First Grade award. Through leading campus tours and hosting Q&A sessions for prospective students, I uncovered a more confident version of myself. One who no longer shied away from public speaking.

Yet still, through it all, if I had to choose one of the most rewarding experiences, it would be volunteering to help new students adapt to campus life. Helping them feel at home made me appreciate the importance of having a welcoming environment. It was something I had longed for myself as part of the very first batch to study on this campus. And now, with the chance to be that reassuring presence for someone else, I allowed myself to give back to the community I am proudly a part of.

So, is this what success really means to me? Personal milestones alongside academic achievements?

Well, not quite. There is one more piece needed to complete the picture: friendship.

Friendship. Friends. The people who color my days with warmth and meaning.

Our late-night study sessions, impromptu matcha runs, and deep conversations over a bowl of instant noodles created bonds that went beyond the classroom. The spontaneous outings that broke the monotony of daily routines, and the shared laughter over inside jokes. The moments of struggle we powered through together during a difficult exam and the celebrations that came after completing it. These moments became the treasurable dots connecting my university experience.

I have found friends who challenged me to grow, who stood by me through both victories and setbacks. Having someone I can lean on during my tough days, share my joys with, and call my support system is, in itself, a success I cherish deeply.

Together, these experiences define what success truly means to me. It's the culmination of hard work, the personal growth I have achieved, and the special relationships I formed along the way.

Looking back, the person I was when I first stepped onto campus was in marked contrast to the 'me' today, and that transformation is what makes this journey meaningful.

So to my past-self, who was once unsure of her place on this campus—embrace the challenges, seek out new experiences, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Treasure the people you meet along the way. The friends who will laugh with you, lift you up, and become the second family you never knew you needed.

And above all, remember, this is only the beginning of your journey.

Written by: Theodora Elva Then

Edited by: Chen Weiying