Antoaneta Velikova, hailing from Bulgaria, is a Ph.D. student at Shanghai Academy of Global Governance & Area Studies(SAGGAS). This year marks a pivotal moment in her journey as she returns to China to deepen her connection with the country and embrace a thrilling new phase of her life.

Part1:Where the Dream Began

Antoaneta’s journey rooted in China kicked off over a decade ago. Upon completing graduate studies, she came to Beijing to pursue her Master’s degree in International Relations at Renmin University of China(RUC). Her research focused on the principle of responsibility in climate change negotiations between China and the EU. Looking back, Antoaneta recalls it as a time of profound personal growth and cherished memories.

 

Following her graduation, Antoaneta returned to Bulgaria after working in Beijing for a brief period. Back in her home country, she taught at a Confucius Institute and organized cultural events, immersing herself in China-related activities. She also took on a position at a Chinese agricultural company in Bulgaria and got involved in forums on the Belt and Road Initiative.

 

Antoaneta notes that China became an inseparable part of her career, eventually embedded deeply into her identity. “After leaving RUC, I always felt like my academic journey wasn’t truly finished. If there was any way to go on, it had to be through further research,” she reflects.

 

Part2:When the Turning Point Arrived

Antoaneta’s determination to pursue a Ph.D. in China was sparked by a moment of inspiration. Several years ago, she was selected to represent Bulgaria at the Global Peace Summit in Istanbul, a gathering of young people from around the world to discuss the theme “Reshaping Youth Response to UN Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)”. During the Summit, she shared her insights. It was back then that Antoaneta discovered her passion for the intersection of international relations, cultural studies, and global cognition.

 

This experience solidified her resolve to further her academic journey. After comparing the top Chinese universities offering International Relations programs, Antoaneta set her sights on SAGGAS. SAGGAS is a collaborative research platform managed by Shanghai International Studies University (SISU) under the auspices of the Ministry of Education (MOE) and Shanghai Municipal People’s Government. It is renowned as a leading think tank in global governance and a center for the cultivation of high-caliber talent.

 

Part3:Where a New Life Unfolds

 

During her first month at SISU, Antoaneta was adapting herself to her new life, busy with the administrative tasks and getting acquainted with the campus and its facilities. “China has developed so rapidly in recent years. Now, you can handle everything with just a mobile phone! It’s almost nothing like when I studied here over a decade ago,” she remarks.

 

Despite her tight schedule, Antoaneta squeezed time for orientation activities organized by the international student office. One evening, while on a river cruise along the Huangpu River, she was struck by the stark contrast between the two sides. One is steeped in historical romance and the other is glittering with modern allure. Marveled at the scene, Antoaneta mused that Shanghai, much like her own life, seemed to be filled with limitless possibilities.

 

Antoaneta’s journey is just beginning and her deep-rooted connection to China will undoubtedly shape her academic and professional pursuits as she ventures into this new chapter. With each step forward, that bond will continue to inspire and guide her future endeavors.