The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and for the newest cohort of medical students, this step was marked by a prestigious Orientation Ceremony on Feb. 26th, 2025 —a day filled with inspiration, wisdom, and a sense of belonging. The event, held at Guizhou Medical University, was a perfect blend of formality and warmth, setting the tone for the years ahead.
The event commenced with a warm and engaging speech from the host, setting the stage for what was to be a remarkable beginning.
Prof. Wu Jiahong, Dean of School of Overseas Education, delivered an inspiring speech about the institution’s legacy and its promising future. She spoke passionately about the university’s humble beginnings, the challenges it had overcome, and the milestones it had achieved over the years. She emphasized that the current generation of students would play a crucial role in shaping the future of medicine, reminding them that they were stepping into a place with a strong foundation and an even brighter horizon ahead. Her words left the audience with a deep sense of pride and motivation.

Following this, our HSK (Chinese language) teacher Geng Yan laoshi addressed the audience, offering valuable insights into the importance of learning Chinese effectively. She spoke about the significance of mastering the language for both academics and communication, especially for students studying in a Chinese-speaking environment. She encouraged students not to fear making mistakes while learning, as errors are a natural part of growth. She also touched upon the HSK exams, sharing advice on how to improve performance and develop a strong grasp of grammar and vocabulary. Her speech was both encouraging and practical, reminding students that consistency and confidence are key to success in language learning.

A senior student Upadhyay Adarsha Mahendra then took the stage, offering valuable advice to the students speaking from personal experience. He painted a realistic picture of medical school—one filled with long nights, tough exams, and countless moments of self-doubt, but also with friendships, achievements, and the unparalleled satisfaction of making a difference in people's lives. His words were both reassuring and motivating, reminding the newcomers that they were not alone in this journey.

The final speech of the event came from one of our own batchmates Sam Samady, and it was nothing short of captivating. Blending humor with heartfelt gratitude, he had the entire audience engaged from the very beginning. He joked about the rollercoaster of emotions that came with being a medical student. His speech was not only entertaining but also deeply appreciative, as he took the time to sincerely thank our teachers for their dedication and support. His words left everyone smiling, inspired, and ready to take on the challenges ahead.

One of the most significant moments of the event was when students were presented with their university badges—a symbol of their entry into the medical profession. As each student received their badge, a sense of pride and responsibility filled the room, marking the beginning of an exciting and challenging journey.
The Orientation Ceremony was more than just an event; it was an experience that left a lasting impression on every student present. It reminded us all that while the road ahead may be demanding, we are now part of a community that will support, guide, and inspire us every step of the way. With our badges pinned and our hearts filled with motivation, we are ready to embark on this incredible journey of learning, growth, and service to humanity.
