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I am Umberto Damasio, or as my Chinese friends call me, Kong Ruoshui, an Italian born and raised in Genoa, a vibrant port city in northwestern Italy. Since childhood, I’ve always been fascinated by Eastern cultures. This curiosity grew stronger when I encountered Chinese classmates in school, which later inspired me to study Chinese language and culture. Little did I know, this choice would lead me on an extraordinary journey in China that has transformed my life and worldview.
Born in 1996, I grew up in a family of four. My parents, both hardworking professionals, encouraged my brother and me to pursue our dreams, emphasizing kindness, independence, and perseverance. My mother, a great storyteller, instilled in me a love for reading and expressing myself, while my father, an engineer, inspired a practical approach to life.
Genoa, steeped in history, was the perfect place to cultivate my curiosity. School trips to ancient Roman ruins deepened my appreciation for culture and heritage, and summers spent by the blue waters of the Ligurian Sea filled my childhood with joy. Growing up in such an open and supportive environment shaped me into an adventurous and curious individual.
In high school, I encountered more Chinese friends, which further fueled my interest in China’s language, history, and culture. Determined to learn more, I chose to study Business Chinese at Ca' Foscari University of Venice. However, simply studying in Italy wasn’t enough for me—I wanted to immerse myself in China’s culture firsthand.
In 2018, I joined a summer volunteer program in China, teaching English to children in Shanghai, Hangzhou, and rural Yunnan. My initial impressions were awe-inspiring: China was vast, modern, and filled with warm, hospitable people. But it was in the remote villages of Yunnan, working with left-behind children, that I truly understood the resilience and kindness of the Chinese people. Their gratitude and the dedication of local teachers left a lasting impact on me.
After my volunteer experience, I was determined to pursue my graduate studies in China. I prepared diligently, passed the HSK Level 5 Chinese proficiency test, and was fortunate to receive a Chinese Government Scholarship to study journalism at Xiamen University.
Arriving in Xiamen in 2019, I was immediately captivated by the university’s stunning campus and vibrant academic environment. My first year was spent studying Chinese intensively, and in 2020, I began my master's program. Being the only foreigner in my class was challenging—keeping up with native speakers required extra effort. I spent countless hours in the library, researching and writing papers, but the hard work paid off.
I am deeply grateful to my professors, especially my advisor, who guided me through the complexities of my thesis. Their encouragement not only improved my academic skills but also deepened my understanding of Chinese culture and thought.
The COVID-19 pandemic posed additional challenges. While many international students were unable to return to China, I stayed throughout, using the quiet periods to volunteer and gain new experiences. I worked as a translator for Italian businesses, a teacher for underprivileged children, and even helped promote Chinese brands internationally.
After graduating in 2023, I decided to stay in China to work. I joined a leading new energy company headquartered in Xi’an, where I’ve held roles in strategic marketing, client relations, and product management. Each position has broadened my skill set, from understanding market strategies to bridging cultural and communication gaps with clients worldwide.
China’s rapid industrial and technological development is nothing short of remarkable. During a visit to our company’s advanced manufacturing base in Jiaxing, I witnessed how artificial intelligence and automation are revolutionizing production. These experiences have given me a deeper appreciation for China’s role as a global innovator.
Though adjusting to life in Xi’an has been a bit challenging, I cherish the opportunities here. The city’s rich history and traditions offer a different perspective from the coastal cities like Xiamen and Shenzhen, which I also admire for their modernity and openness.
Living in China has taught me much more than just a language; it has reshaped my worldview. China’s emphasis on relationships and “renqing” (human connections) has shown me the importance of community and collaboration. I’ve come to appreciate the country’s diversity, from its stunning landscapes to its myriad cuisines and dialects.
My journey has not been without challenges. The societal pressures and fast-paced lifestyle can be overwhelming at times, but these very aspects make China a land of endless opportunities. I believe that combining my Western upbringing with the insights I’ve gained here will enable me to contribute to fostering greater cultural understanding between the East and the West.
Looking ahead, I aspire to become a cultural ambassador of sorts, helping people from around the world see the beauty and complexity of China. Whether it’s through my work, volunteering, or sharing stories, I hope to bridge gaps and create meaningful connections across cultures.
My time in China has been a journey of growth, resilience, and discovery. As I continue to build my future here, I remain deeply grateful for the experiences and people that have shaped me.
China has become a second home to me, and I look forward to seeing where this path will take me next.
