My name is Dana,and I want to share my journey to Shanghai University with you!

Growing up in Russia, I was raised to value education and curiosity about the world. From childhood, I traveled and learned languages, which led me to wonder: What if I studied in China? Living in Beijing deepened my understanding of China’s culture, pace, and ambitions, teaching me how much the right environment matters for growth.

As a Business Administration student, I became fascinated by Asia’s rapidly evolving business landscape. My research revealed China’s central role in shaping the global economy and its welcome to international students. Eager to explore further, I searched for the right opportunity—and found it at Shanghai University.

Why  SHU?

Choosing SHU was not on the spur of the moment. It was a result of balancing my own dreams with what the university and Shanghai represent.

Firstly, there was the academic strength of the International Business program. I looked for a curriculum that is more than books, one that would expose me to cross-cultural case studies, real-world business practices, and a network of professors and peers with international backgrounds. Having studied foreign languages and worked in international settings, I wanted an environment where I could test myself, broaden my knowledge, and acquire the competencies needed for a global career. SHU offered exactly that: a structured and challenging program that would help me grow as a student and future professional.

Second, there was Shanghai itself. Shanghai city is a cosmopolitan center that attracts global companies, startups, creatives, and dreamers. I saw the city not only as my future home but as an extension of the classroom - a living laboratory where I could observe, learn, and eventually contribute to international business development.

Finally, what really attracted me was the opportunity to take the next step in my personal journey. I wanted to challenge myself, explore new horizons, and grow not only as a student but as an individual who would be equipped to grab opportunities in the days to come. SHU represented a place where I could turn my ambitions into concrete achievements.

My Application Story

My journey to SHU was not smooth, but every step contributed to the final welcome.

It started with research. I thoroughly researched programs at several Chinese universities Chinese universities, reviewed scholarship opportunities, and analyzed admission requirements thoroughly.

Application involved taking all my academic and language credentials in line. I attached my passport, certificate of no criminal record, study plan, video introduction, Bachelor’s degree certificate, transcripts, recommendation letters, IELTS results, HSK certificate, and statement of financial support. Preparing these made me disciplined and precise, especially since each of the requirements reflected SHU's commitment to academic success.

The waiting after submission was perhaps the most nervous time. I recall checking my email, hoping to hear some news. When the letter of acceptance finally arrived, it was great. But the surprise came in the second sentence: I was granted the Shanghai Government Scholarship (Type A) - a full scholarship. It was not only financial help; it was recognition of my abilities and a discovery that I had actually made the right choice.

Surprises and Growth

Although my SHU studies have only begun, the journey already brought growth in ways I did not expect.

I discovered how much I had grown up already during the course of the application process itself. Preparing for IELTS and HSK, working on my academic portfolio, and self-reflection for my career goals gave me resilience, focus, and confidence in myself. I realized that this process of going to SHU wasn't just about getting in, it was about becoming a stronger version of myself.

During lectures, I was surprised to learn how engaging the lectures were and how approachable and caring the professors proved to be. They assisted me in transitioning more effectively to university life and urged me to try my best and challenge myself intellectually.

Now, as I am encountering students from around the globe, and engaging in campus life, I feel both excitement and responsibility. SHU is not just a place to study, it is a platform for transformation. I hope to contribute to the student community by sharing my own experiences, engaging in cross-cultural projects, and helping others navigate their paths just as I was guided.

Inspiring Future SHUers

For anyone considering Shanghai University, I want to share this: pursuing your dreams often begins with curiosity and a single step forward. My journey started with a simple question and led me through a time of months of preparation, studying, and self-exploration, culminating in arriving at SHU on a full scholarship.

It is not easy. You will face deadlines, language tests, and unfamiliar systems. But every challenge is an opportunity to grow, to prove to yourself that you can adapt, overcome, and achieve more than you thought possible.

The Library at Shanghai University's Baoshan Campus

SHU offers a unique combination: a rigorous academic environment, dedicated professors, and a campus that encourages personal development. Beyond grades and assignments, it’s a place to build confidence, gain independence, and prepare for the next stage of your global journey.

Shanghai University is more than a university. It is a community of achievers, dreamers, and global citizens. It is a place where you can challenge yourself academically, grow yourself as an individual, and live in one of the most exciting cities on the planet.

As a newly admitted student of the Class of 2025, I can say with confidence: your dreams are closer than you think. And SHU might just be the place where they come true.

Source: Shanghai University