A Samoan student says he is growing closer to achieving his life's ambition of representing Samoa in international trade after he recently graduated from a Chinese university.

Iairo Julian WongLing Tala, 23, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in international economics and trade from the Beijing Language and Culture University recently.

The graduate – who is a resident of Lalomanu Aleipata, Alafua and Vaitele Uta – told the Samoa Observer in an interview that he had always wanted to be an expert in international trade.

“I wanted to be a representative of Samoa in the fields of international or regional politics, relations, trade and economics one day,” he said.

“Making a positive change that benefits our people, improving and strengthening our relationships with our partners, and strengthening our cooperation with our neighbouring islands has always been a desire of mine.”

But in order to study international trade he had to complete a one-year study in the Chinese language, which he did at the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) from September 2016 to August 2017.

He left the UIBE for Beijing Language Culture University after passing all of his exams to be formally allocated the university for his major. From September 2017 to July 2021, he studied international economics and trade at the BLCU. 

Looking back at his journey since he flew to China in 2016 to undertake his studies, he said learning Chinese and culture shock were his major challenges.

“First challenge I faced was to learn how to speak in Chinese, it was really difficult and perplexing, I had to learn Chinese for a year,” he said. 

“Culture shock was also a problem, the China we see on television smiling and welcoming visitors is not the China I encountered when I first visited. 

“I suppose the only way to comprehend Chinese is to learn their language and culture.”

And missing family while living in a foreign land was another hurdle he had to overcome, though the hollow feeling of homesickness compelled him to become independent, to ensure it didn’t impact on his studies.

Having come this far to finally graduate, he gave credit to everyone who contributed to the success of his studies including God and family.

“I dedicate the achievement to my God; I would like to thank my parents and siblings. They have been my greatest source of inspiration and motivation throughout my time in China,” he said. 

“Their sacrifices, prayers, and fasting have helped me to persevere in the face of adversity. Also to my families and everyone who were there for me this is for you guys.”

The graduate is the son of Taua Tala and Viva WongLing Tala next.