My journey of higher education in China—from studying Chinese at Tongji University to completing undergraduate and master's degrees at Hefei University of Technology (HFUT), and later earning a PhD at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)—has been a story of perseverance, discovery, and cross-cultural growth. Over more than a decade, I have experienced firsthand how China's world-class education system nurtures talent, fosters global collaboration, and shapes both professional and personal development.
Academic Journey and Research
My academic path began at Tongji University in Shanghai, where I completed a one-year pre-college Chinese language program. This experience not only provided me with a strong linguistic foundation but also introduced me to Chinese culture, customs, and values—an essential foundation that prepared me for my later studies.
I then pursued both bachelor's and master's degrees in Civil Engineering at HFUT, which strengthened my scientific knowledge, research abilities, and determination. These formative years inspired me to pursue advanced studies in safety science and engineering.
At USTC, I joined the State Key Laboratory of Fire Science (SKLFS) for my doctoral research. My work focused on fire safety and human behavior during emergency evacuations—particularly how people move and make decisions when confronted with obstacles in high-rise buildings. Under the guidance of my supervisor and alongside a talented research team, I developed strong technical expertise and learned the value of collaboration, skills essential for addressing complex scientific challenges.
During my PhD, I conducted research on human–obstacle interactions in high-rise building evacuations. I published five research papers as first author and co-author, contributing new insights to the field and advancing understanding of fire safety and pedestrian evacuation dynamics. I also participated in the National Key Research Project on Mechanism of High-Density Crowds and Evacuation Safety and the Anhui Provincial Fire Safety Development Program, gaining valuable experience in applied scientific research.
After completing my PhD, I was honored with the Outstanding International PhD Graduate Award in recognition of my academic performance and research achievements. I also became the first Afghan PhD graduate from USTC—a milestone that reflects both personal perseverance and the growing academic ties between Afghanistan and China. Over the years, I became fluent in Chinese and achieved HSK Level 6, which enabled me to actively participate in academic discussions, collaborate effectively with colleagues, and engage fully in community life.
Public Engagement
Beyond research, I actively engaged in scientific and outreach programs. I was invited to speak at the Future Scientists Exchange Program, sharing my study experiences and insights on cross-cultural scientific collaboration. I also attended the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Fire Safety Training Course, connecting with experts from several countries to discuss global fire safety development.
During my PhD, I participated in social practice programs that took me across China—from Liupanshui in Guizhou and Xiaogang Village in Anhui, the birthplace of rural reform, to Shenzhen, a frontier of reform and opening up. These experiences deepened my understanding of China's development model and offered valuable perspectives on global progress. I also attended two academic conferences, presenting my research and exchanging ideas with scholars in my field.
I was also invited several times by Chinese media, including Xinhua News and Anhui TV, for video interviews and features showcasing international scholars' experiences in China. These programs covered diverse topics such as smart manufacturing (including new energy vehicles, industrial robots, and advanced displays), smart housing technologies designed to support the elderly, and Xuan Paper production in Anhui—one of China's most renowned traditional crafts. Through these experiences, I gained cultural insights and a profound appreciation for how science, innovation, and tradition can coexist in modern China.
I was also an active member of the Foreign Students Association, where I helped organize cultural exchanges and academic activities. These experiences enriched my leadership, teamwork, and communication skills while strengthening bonds among international students.
Cultural Experiences and Personal Growth
Living and studying in China for over a decade has offered me a blend of unforgettable academic and cultural experiences—from exploring China's northwestern scenic landscapes and cultural heritage to celebrating traditional festivals in eastern China's megacities with friends and colleagues. These moments have deepened my appreciation of China's rich culture and further strengthened my sense of belonging within the USTC community.
Adapting to a new academic system and cultural environment came with challenges, but perseverance—along with unwavering support from teachers, peers, and friends—turned these challenges into opportunities for growth. These experiences fostered resilience, cross-cultural understanding, and a lifelong curiosity about the intersection of science, technology, and society.
Support and Gratitude
My accomplishments would not have been possible without the invaluable support I received throughout this journey. I am sincerely grateful to the Chinese government for providing scholarships, research funding, and educational initiatives that empower international students to pursue excellence. I also thank the International Student Office (ISO) at USTC for its continuous guidance and care, which made my academic and personal life smoother and more meaningful. Most importantly, I express my heartfelt gratitude to my distinguished supervisor, Professor Song Weiguo, and the research team at SKLFS for their mentorship, collaboration, and inspiration. Their dedication profoundly influenced my academic success and professional development.
Looking Ahead
After completing my PhD, I began my postdoctoral research at the State Key Laboratory of Fire Science (SKLFS), USTC, focusing on advanced fire safety, smart firefighting, and emergency evacuation studies. This stage allows me to expand on my doctoral research, apply innovative approaches, and collaborate with international experts while continuing to share knowledge through mentorship and outreach.
Reflecting on my journey from Tongji to HFUT and USTC, each step has been a path of discovery—of science, cutting-edge technology, and culture. It inspires me to advocate for education, foster mutual understanding among nations, and encourage young minds from Afghanistan—where girls and women are tragically denied access to schools and workplaces—and beyond, to embrace knowledge and innovation with courage, curiosity, and compassion.
Today, my time in China has shaped me not only as an early-career researcher but also as a culturally open-minded individual who values knowledge, science, technology, empathy, and collaboration—the key engines of progress, understanding, and problem-solving in a global community with a shared future for mankind. I carry forward the lessons, friendships, and values cultivated here, deeply grateful to this country and my alma mater for profoundly influencing both my professional path and personal growth.
