I am Hichem from Algeria. I planned to apply for Chinese Language Program of Jiangxi Normal University. Finally I applied for Chinese Language Program of Xidian University. It is a long story.

My first choice

Actually I knew few about Chinese universities. I wanted Jiangxi Normal University before because I have several friends studying there. They told me the tuition fee and accommodation fee there are cheap. Tuition fee is 12000RMB/Y for Chinese Language Program and accommodation fee is 3000RMB/Y. So I decided to apply for it. Then I want to know how to apply, when to apply and what documents are needed. But I did not know where to get them.

The turning point

So I use google. That is where I I found CISS. I tied register at ciss.org.cn. I received from the course consultant the next day. In this email, the consultant confirmed my personal information, the reason why I chose it and the information about application of this university. I felt a little strange why should she ask me about the reason. But I cooperated. Then she told me the necessary documents and the perfect time of application. When filling the application form, I need to put in the planned study time. I asked the consultant whether I can study for one semester. Because I want to study computer science at master degree in autumn. I study Chinese first because I like Chinese culture. This is the turning point of my application for Chinese university.

New choice

After getting my study plan, the course consultant give me an advice. She recommended Xidian University. She has several reasons:

1) the tuition fee of Chinese language program is the same as Jiangxi Normal University. The accommodation fee for double room is 4500RMB/Y. it is within my budget.

2) Computer science in Xidian University ranks the first 30 in China. The teachers there are with rich experiences. If I come there, it is more convenient for me to learn computer science.

3) Xi’an is one of the most ancient cities in China. I can enjoy Chinese culture better here. But I hesitated. Because it is a totally strange city for me and I do not know anyone there.

Final choice

The course consultant told me I need not worry. No matter who comes to a new place will feel uncomfortable. But she will use her free time to give me some information and introduction of both Xidian and Xi’an to me. so that I can get to know this university this place in advance. and she told me she will accompany me all the way. Whenever I have troubles I can contact her. I do not know which to choose. I am confused. Then she said everyone who wants to study abroad are determined to find the most suitable university and learn something useful. Then we can go back home with honor. Choosing Jiangxi Normal University make ease my nervous at the beginning. But when I finish it, I have to adapt to a new place when I study master degree. in fact, Chinese courses are easier than degree program. if I study Chinese first, I will be more easier to study computer science there. I am convinced by her. So I followed her advice and applied for Xidian. About two weeks after finishing application, I got a good news that I was admitted. I was excited at that moment i foune the most suitable university with the help of CISS.

Wishes

But the course consultant did not stop her work until this moment. As she has said, she sent me some information about this university and city now and then. I feel that I have been a member of Xidian.