How Maria Tordoya, a Peruvian Scholar, Secured a Fully Funded Bachelor’s in Clinical Medicine at Guangxi Medical University Through the Chinese Government Scholarship

My name is Maria Tordoya, and I am from Peru. I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Clinical Medicine at Guangxi Medical University in China.

Initially, I chose this path because I wanted to challenge myself and step outside my comfort zone. Over time, that motivation developed into a deep interest in medicine and the difference we can make in people’s lives when we do everything we can to help them.

Chinese Government Scholarship Details

I received a full Chinese Government Scholarship through the China Scholarship Council (CSC) to study at Guangxi Medical University. It covers tuition and accommodation and provides a monthly living allowance of RMB 2,500 for food and other daily expenses.

Educational Background

Before starting my undergraduate degree, I attended secondary school in Peru, where I also held a scholarship. My school offered a less conventional educational experience, which encouraged me to consider opportunities beyond my own country and pursue my education abroad.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Guangxi Medical University?

I spent approximately six months preparing my application, paying particular attention to my study plan. I wanted it to communicate the impact of the activities I had been involved in, what I hoped to achieve through my medical education, and how I intended to use the opportunities and resources available to me.

My goal was to explain how this education would help me grow and prepare me to contribute to my community.

How Did You Find Information About Chinese Government Scholarship and Guangxi Medical University?

I learned about this scholarship through my schoolteachers. They encouraged me to apply and to do everything within my reach to pursue the opportunity. Their encouragement played an important role in my decision to take that step.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

I did not take any of these standardized tests when I applied.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship?

During those approximately six months, I worked on my study plan and gathered the required documents. This included arranging translations, notarizations, and apostilles.

Preparing the application involved both reflecting on my goals and managing the practical steps needed to submit the documents correctly.

How Is Your Experience at Guangxi Medical University?

My experience has had both highs and lows. My degree is taught entirely in Mandarin Chinese, which has been a significant challenge. I initially learned Chinese through English, my second language, so adapting to university courses taught in Chinese required considerable effort.

At first, the lessons moved faster than I could process the information. Over the years, however, I have gradually adapted. Although I still do not do everything perfectly, I am now more willing to take part, ask questions, and try new things. I make an effort to spend more time in the hospital and look for opportunities to learn.

This experience has also motivated me to prepare to continue my studies in China.

How Do You Rate Guangxi Medical University Academically?

I have found the academic environment very demanding. Learning new medical concepts while keeping up with coursework, laboratory sessions, clinical rotations, and assignments has been a constant challenge.

Studying all of this in Chinese adds another layer of difficulty. It has been a complex journey that has required sustained effort and adaptation.

How Does Guangxi Medical University Support International Students?

The university has been attentive to our academic progress and has provided additional tutoring when needed. It also offers free emotional and psychological support, as well as a space where we can communicate our needs and concerns.

Throughout my studies, the university has also offered activities and opportunities that help us develop our skills and grow in our chosen fields.

What Is the Language of Instruction?

My classes are conducted entirely in Mandarin Chinese.

What Did You Pursue After the Chinese Government Scholarship?

My scholarship is still ongoing, and I am currently completing my clinical internship as part of my medical degree.

Alongside my hospital training, I volunteer with World Food Forum Peru in the area of nutrition, contributing to different projects. I am also preparing to pursue further studies in China.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Not Knowing Mandarin?

Yes. For a Chinese-taught program like mine, not knowing the language would create significant academic difficulties. The course content and classes are in Chinese, and medicine also requires direct communication with patients in their own language.

Learning the language is therefore essential for understanding the coursework and participating in clinical training.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because I had a clear vision for my education and expressed my goals honestly. I explained what I wanted to achieve and how I hoped to use my education in the future.

I did not exaggerate my experiences or present everything as perfect. I tried to be myself and make sure my application reflected who I was and what mattered to me.

What Would You Have Done Differently If You Were Going Through the Process Again?

I would approach the process more calmly and give myself more time to prepare. I would also explore each of my options more carefully before making a decision.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My advice is to be patient and approach the process calmly. Giving yourself time to think clearly can help you make better decisions.

I would also encourage applicants to be themselves. Honesty and individuality are among the most valuable things we bring to an application, and they are worth protecting throughout the process.

Once you decide to pursue a dream abroad and work toward it, it is easy to become overwhelmed by expectations and stress. Keep working toward your goal, but do not lose sight of who you are along the way.