Editor's Note
SUMMARY
Esmeraldito Ferreira (Esfer), a medical student from East Timor, is a shining example of how education and cultural exchange can bridge gaps and transform lives. His journey from a rural village to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai is a testament to the power of perseverance and the opportunities lie in Fudan education.
In a heartfelt speech that captivated the audience, Esfer, a Clinical Medicine major graduating from Fudan this year, from the small village of Iliomar in East Timor, shared at the 2024 undergraduate commencement ceremony his inspiring journey from a rural background to becoming an intern at Huashan Hospital affiliated to Fudan University.
“Growing up in a rural area with limited electronic resources, I acquired knowledge primarily through classroom teaching,” said Esfer, reflecting on his early years. His aspiration of coming to China to learn medicine was influenced by his two uncles. Esfer’s paternal uncle, the first doctor in Iliomar, passed away in the line of duty, but his selfless giving has been a profound inspiration, igniting Esfer’s passion to become a doctor committed to addressing the health needs of local communities.
Meanwhile, the story of Esfer’s maternal uncle, the first student in East Timor to receive a scholarship from the Chinese government to study in China, gave Esfer an early insight into Chinese culture and society and educational opportunities in China.
“Encouraged by my father, I studied very hard and took an active part in volunteer work.” His dedication was rewarded with a scholarship from the Chinese government, setting him on a path of academic excellence and cultural immersion in Fudan University.
“The first time I changed a patient’s dressing, my heart raced with nerves, but when they said ‘Thank you, doctor’, it was the most rewarding moment of my life,” recounting his time at Huashan Hospital.
“At Fudan, I learned not just medicine, but also leadership skills and the art of communication,” he said, highlighting his involvement in extracurricular activities and volunteer work. “I am honored to represent my country in China and China and Fudan in East Timor.”
As Esfer prepares to contribute to East Timor’s health sector after graduation, his role as the president of Association of Timorese Students in China positions him to work with Timorese leaders on future health and community-benefiting projects. “I am eager to take what I’ve learned back home and make a difference,” he stated with determination.
“Today, as we celebrate our achievements, let us also remember the challenges we’ve overcome and the dreams we hold dear,” Esfer concluded. “I wish all my fellow graduates the courage to forge ahead and the determination to achieve their dreams.”
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Presented by Fudan University Media Center
Writer: LI Yijie
Editor: WANG Menqi
Designer: George Li
