Editor’s note: Gen-Zers, born during the late 1990s and early 2000s, have come of age in the smartphone era and are often viewed as more self-assured and precocious compared to earlier generations. With China’s ongoing process of opening up, a growing contingent of foreign Gen-Zers opt to study, work, and reside in China. In this column, Shenzhen Daily reporters delve into the experiences of international Gen-Zers as they navigate a new life in China, striving for personal growth, and engaging in cultural exchanges with the local community.

Zhang Yu

JeniZhang13@163.com

SALONI CHOUDHARY, a spirited undergraduate student from New Delhi, India, is right at home in Shenzhen, a city buzzing with tech and fresh ideas. Choudhary is in her final year at the Southern University of Science and Technology and majors in environmental science and engineering.

Choosing Shenzhen for its advanced infrastructure and proximity to Hong Kong, Choudhary was initially drawn to the city’s reputation as a hub for innovation and competition.

Her journey to Shenzhen was not without its challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic forced her to begin her studies online from India, finally arriving in Shenzhen in January 2023. Since then, she has been immersed in the city’s unique blend of greenery and high technology, which resonates with her academic pursuits.

“The most attractive aspect of the city is its beauty and cleanliness,” she noted, appreciating the urban planning that coexists with environmental consciousness. As an environmental science and engineering major, she is fascinated by Shenzhen’s commitment to maintaining high environmental standards amidst rapid development.

Academically, Choudhary has found her university to be rigorous but rewarding. She has become a consistent lab worker, thanks to the encouragement of her professor. “The academic level is very high, and you compete with some of the best Chinese students,” she told Shenzhen Daily.

Beyond academics, Choudhary has attended cultural trips, which has broadened her understanding of Chinese culture and traditions.

The rich academic resources in Shenzhen have been eye-opening for Choudhary, who finds the city’s emphasis on technology and research unparalleled.

Her advice to other international students considering studying in Shenzhen is straightforward: “It’s a really good city, but you need to be prepared because there’s a lot of competition going on here. So you need to be the best.”