A New Chapter in Munich

Hello, everyone!🙌 My name is Minjing, and I also go by the nickname Minya.

I come from Shangrao, a mountainous city in southeastern China🇨🇳. It is surrounded by lush green hills and known for its spicy cuisine. In Shangrao, chili peppers are a must-have in nearly every dish — from vegetables and meat to seafood (my mother even adds them to scrambled eggs with tomatoes). Ironically, I’m not the best at handling spicy food, at least by local standards.

Currently, I am pursuing my Master’s degree in International Journalism & Communication at Fudan University in Shanghai. Studying in Shanghai has opened up many doors for me, including the chance to join this exchange program in Munich — an opportunity I deeply value. Compared to my hometown, Shanghai is modern, refined, and highly international. What I appreciate most about the city is its vibrant cultural life. On weekends, I often visit art exhibitions and museums, or enjoy long walks along the Riverside Greenway of the Bund by the Huangpu River. These moments offer a peaceful contrast to the fast-paced urban environment.

The scenery from the North Bund Riverside Greenway

Now, let’s talk about Munich. 

Munich presents a very different rhythm of life. People here seem to live more slowly, allowing time to enjoy small, everyday pleasures. This change of pace is something I welcome. I am especially drawn to the natural landscape of Bavaria — the Alps in particular. The mountains here are taller and more dramatic than those in eastern China. Snow-capped peaks, rolling meadows, clear rivers, and deep blue lakes create breathtaking views, sometimes even just from a train window.

During my semester abroad, I hope to explore not only academic perspectives but also the cultural and natural beauty of this region. Whether it’s lying under the sun in the English Garden or hiking through alpine villages on the weekend, I look forward to discovering more about daily life in Munich. I am also eager to meet people from different backgrounds, engage in meaningful conversations, and develop a broader understanding of the world beyond my own.

I’m truly excited to be here!👏