Four months, a full semester, but for exchange students from mainland China, time always flies by too quickly, as if time itself is envious of such a wonderful exchange experience.
“I really don’t want to leave the hiking club and wish I had a door that could teleport me back here so I could join the next activity right away!” This is Hu Haiting’s greatest wish. She is a junior majoring in International Trade at Shenzhen University and is currently an exchange student at Chinese Culture University.
Though Hu Haiting may appear petite and has a delicate face, she has a boyish personality. During the club recruitment at the start of the semester, she didn’t hesitate to join the Huagang Hiking Club. From February until now, she has already participated in six or seven club activities. Her healthy sun-kissed tan is proof enough.
Among all the activities, the one that left the deepest impression on her was the hike up “Earless Teapot Mountain.” She said, “This was my first time walking along a ridgeline, and also my first time climbing such a steep mountain without any steps.” “During the hike, there were times when I felt very tired and wanted to give up, but whenever that happened, the other team members would always encourage me with words and help me with technical support.”
The hiking club not only taught Haiting more professional knowledge and skills about mountaineering, but most importantly, it made her feel the warmth and happiness of being “at home.” The phrase “Once you’ve joined the hiking club, you’re always a part of the family” moved her the most. In the blink of an eye, it’s almost time to leave, and Haiting feels deeply reluctant to say goodbye to the hiking club. She truly wishes she had a “door” that could let her come and go freely.
“Humans rely too much on cities. Whenever something happens, they turn to the police for help, thus neglecting their own abilities,” said Haiting. “Hiking is precisely what can help cultivate the ability to be with oneself, as well as the quality of personal perseverance.”