Years passed by quickly and in 2017, the head of the GPL, Professor Chunlei GUO, offered me an opportunity to work for him as an associate professor in China. I agreed immediately. Members of the group welcomed me and my family with warmth and hospitability, and provided us with all means of moral and material support. They made me feel that we are truly one family pulling each other.

The years passed like a breeze and every day our love for China and its people increased. With the help of CIOMP, my three children are attending local schools and have all mastered the Chinese language. They have settled in their new life, made Chinese friends and always have endless stories to tell us about their schools and friends.

Our life in China taught us many lessons and each experience we encountered was unique. We were exposed to a lifestyle foreign to our old daily routines and met many friends that were beyond thrilled to receive us as guests and colleagues. We were not only accepted by everyone into the rich Chinese traditions and culture but also allowed to represent ourselves and our own culture.

One day we will go back to our country, but we will never forget the beautiful time we have spent at CIOMP. Words fail me when I try to thank the wonderful people who have put their time and effort into making me and my family happy. Thanks to every Chinese who loves his country and seeks to serve her and helps foreigners.