In Dalian Maritime University, there is a remarkable student named Zou Beibei. Standing at less than 1.2 meters tall, she has faced significant challenges but has never chosen to back down. Instead, she has demonstrated immense determination and resilience.
Zou Beibei is a 2021 undergraduate student at Dalian Maritime University. When she was young, doctors told her that she might never walk, but she refused to accept that fate. After undergoing three major surgeries to correct her lower limbs, she has been able to walk with the aid of braces. During her time at school, she made a remarkable turnaround, moving from the top 10% in her major to the top 2%. She has received numerous accolades, including the title of “Top Ten College Students,” the National Encouragement Scholarship, and recognition as an Annual Figure among College Students in Liaoning Province.
Now, she has successfully secured a recommendation for graduate studies at Beijing Jiaotong University, where she will further her education in Transportation Planning and Management.
Reflecting on her journey, Zou Beibei expressed her gratitude for the support she received from her teachers and classmates. “Although hardship has made my life challenging, it has also given me the strength to never bow to difficulties,” she said. Upon learning of her intentions to pursue further studies, faculty members wrote recommendation letters for her and provided guidance on her application process and study plans. With the encouragement of her two professors, she fully committed herself to preparing for the graduate school entrance process, polishing her application materials, practicing her spoken English, reviewing her research projects, studying her major courses, and simulating interviews. Although the preparation was filled with pressure and exhaustion, her hopes for the future motivated her to keep pushing forward.
Due to her unique physical needs, her academic advisor actively sought opportunities for her to conduct online interviews with her target schools. The faculty at the university were so moved by Zou Beibei’s story of tenacity and determination that they readily provided her with an online interview channel. “When the admissions officer at Beijing Jiaotong University learned about my situation, they welcomed me to their graduate program. The advisor I contacted was also very encouraging, showing appreciation for my efforts despite the adversities I face,” Zou Beibei shared.
Navigating university life has not been easy for her, so the school has made accommodations to ensure her comfort, providing accessible furniture, a low bed, a small wardrobe, and a washing area suited to her height. Additionally, they have granted her financial aid to help alleviate day-to-day challenges.
Zou Beibei has a motto displayed on her desk that reads, “We will eventually reach the shore, facing the sunlight.” When fate closed a door on her, she worked diligently to open another window. During the interview, she recounted many of her “firsts” during her college years, such as attending her first movie, taking her first photoshoot, and seeing the ocean for the first time. Her academic advisor emphasizes, “As long as it’s something she wants to do, we will fully support her. Our hope is that she can rise higher and go further.”
Fully aware that her growth is a product of the support from the nation and society, Zou Beibei aims to illuminate others’ paths as well. During her winter and summer breaks, she volunteers in her community, teaching children from left-behind families, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and challenge themselves.
“Life has kissed me with pain, so I will respond with song,” Zou Beibei said, as her passion for life and desire to move forward fuel her relentless pursuit of light.
