As someone who hasn’t travelled alone all her life, studying abroad was the last option in the list. But never did she think that this decision would be a beautiful beginning to something greater. Oh yes, I am talking about myself.

My name is Lakshmi Aishwarya and I’m currently pursuing MBBS in XMU. The very first day at XMU seemed surreal to me. Initially it was a very nervous experience. My dad had accompanied me and he instantly felt that he had made the right choice for his daughter.

Even though he was completely satisfied, I had my own doubts and anxiety. My story with XMU had a shaky start. I was an introverted person and adapting to a new place was a difficult task. Taking long walks around the campus had become a habit, but in every way all I saw was kindness and a welcoming smile from each individual.

Slowly XMU started feeling like a second home. My first friend at XMU was a dog! Every time I missed my family, I felt comforting to just sit next to her and watch swans swim around the lake.

The most beautiful story XMU can hold is the relationships made by the students among different ethnicities and cultures. From not knowing anything about them to exploring this experience together and talking to them through video calls in this pandemic, we have come a long way. The celebrations of different festivals from holi to mid autumn festival and from Chinese new year to diwali the bonds have only become tighter than ever.From not being able to pronounce each others’ names to making nicknames for each other with love has built a mutual respect amongst us.

The dedication and effort put in by the teachers and staffs took me in delight and motivated me to work harder. The care and protection with love and compassion is what made XMU what it is today.

XMU has changed my point of view. It is more than just an educational institution; it is an adventure that everyone must enjoy and embrace. Even though my story has its own ups and downs, this journey is something that I will always cherish and that can never be experienced again. I am always grateful for the stories and memories I can carry throughout my life.

My dad and I can’t wait to get back to XMU and see what it holds for us in the future! May this continue successfully for the years to come, keep uplifting people and may everyone come out with flying colours. I wish XMU the happiest 100th year anniversary. THANK YOU.