Greetings! My name is Velia Martamulia, and I come from Indonesia. I am currently a
third‑year student majoring in Digital Media Technology.
From the classrooms to the campus cafeterias, from student events to late‑night conversations with friends from all over the world, ZUST has given me a life filled with culture, creativity, and community.
My Motto: Give It My All, Embrace Every Opportunity！
One of my seniors once told me something that changed the way I approached
university life:
“Whenever you can, spread kindness and wherever you find an opportunity, take
it. Do everything so that you won’t miss out on anything.”
I took that advice to heart, always keeping the mantra in mind for days when I lacked
courage or confidence. Through practicing these simple words, I said yes to things that scared me. I said yes to things I didn’t think I was ready for. I said yes even when I doubted myself. In the end, I found that with every new step, and every “yes”, I discovered a new path outside of my comfort zone, one step at a time, taking myself one step further than where I thought I could be.
Growing Along Creations and Competitions
My field of study, Digital Media Technology, is a field that demands imagination,
discipline, and constant experimentation. Supported by my teachers, I took initiative and participated in competitions, from writing to creating art posters. I will forever be grateful to my teacher for these experiences that have taught me how to turn ideas into visuals, and visuals into stories.
Being exposed to these competitions truly opened my eyes to the various captivating
aspects of Chinese culture. It elevated my understanding levels beyond what I had learned from courses. I feel honored to be able to catch a glimpse of the people, language, history, art and cultural aspects China excels at.
Finding My Place in the International Student Union
One of the most transformative parts of my university life has been joining the International Student Union (ISU). I started as a member of the Social Department in my 1st year, helping with bringing energy to all events and documentation. In my second year, I led the Social Department as Minister, where I dedicated energy to create events that focus on supporting new students, and building a sense of community. Over time through these experiences in the social department, I grew more confident in speaking up, planning activities, and taking responsibility.
Today, I serve as the Vice‑President of the ISU, a role I would never have imagined
myself taking when I first arrived as a timid and introverted youth. Through ISU, I learned leadership, teamwork, and the importance of creating spaces where students feel seen and supported. My journey in the ISU wouldn’t have been the same without the people who accompanied me through my every step.
A Home Built Through Friendship
What makes ZUST special isn’t just the campus or the classes, it’s the people. The
friends who cheer you on, the classmates who stay up late finishing projects with you, the teachers who guide you with patience and encouragement. There were days that hit hard especially the homesickness from being under different skies, the pressures were immediately lifted through the laughter and tears shared with friends.
Looking Ahead, Moving With Momentum
As I continue my journey in ZUST, I hope to keep creating meaningful work, exploring new parts of Chinese language and culture, and contributing to the international student community.
I want to keep stepping out of my comfort zone — one small, brave step at a time.
Dearest students,
If you ever feel unsure, or afraid, or not “ready enough,” remember this — you don’t
need to be fearless to move forward. You just need to begin.
