Foreign Student at BSU: “I Will Introduce the Saz to My Friends as Soon as I Return to China”
Liu Xinao, who is studying Azerbaijani at the Faculty of Philology of Baku State University (BSU), is also a student at Beijing Foreign Studies University of the People’s Republic of China. She is participating in international mobility programs under the BSU “Strategic Development Plan (2021–2030)” within the framework of the memorandum of understanding signed between BSU and Beijing Foreign Studies University.
Her strong interest in the Azerbaijani language and culture distinguishes her among foreign students studying our language. We spoke with her about her educational journey at BSU, her introduction to Azerbaijani culture, and her future plans.
– According to the program, students are required to study in the country of their chosen language for one semester. Why did you choose Azerbaijan?
– Since I also love traveling, I chose Azerbaijan as my destination. The culture, literature, and way of thinking of your country are very close to me. I really enjoy speaking Azerbaijani out loud and communicating with people, because back in China I mostly practiced the language by talking to myself. Now, being able to speak here—in the homeland of this language—is a wonderful experience for me.
– You have been studying Azerbaijani at BSU for five months now. How are your lessons?
– I believe that the best indicator of quality education is the teachers. They use different teaching methods, audiovisual materials, and films in our lessons. In China, we focused more on grammar, but here I have learned to listen carefully and understand real conversations. Developing listening comprehension in Azerbaijani was challenging for me at first, but my five-month student life here has played a very important role in improving this skill.
– Have you watched any Azerbaijani films? Which one did you like the most?
– Watching films from the country whose language I am learning is very interesting for me. I enjoyed all of them, but the one I remember the most is “If Not That One, Then This One.” It was very funny, and the language used in it was fascinating.
Just like your films, your culture and music are also very appealing. Through my lessons, I became familiar with Azerbaijani cinema and traditional musical instruments. I especially fell in love with the saz. My friend and I are even planning to buy a saz before returning to China so that we can introduce this instrument there.
– You are probably familiar with examples of Azerbaijani literature. What similarities do you see between our literature and Chinese literature?
– One of my favorite works is Shah Ismail Khatai’s “Dahnameh.” I believe that our literatures are very similar in many ways. In both traditions, there are numerous examples of love and heroism. The feelings of devotion to family and homeland are also strongly reflected in our works.
I have developed a deep appreciation for Azerbaijani literature. Even after completing my studies here, I plan to continue reading your literary works when I return to China. This will also help me further improve my language skills.
– What was the most difficult part of learning Azerbaijani?
– I think the most difficult part is the large number of suffixes, especially tense suffixes. When I speak, I often think about which tense ending I should use. This takes a lot of time and sometimes makes me feel unsure. Reading in Azerbaijani is easier for me than speaking.
– Have you made friends with Azerbaijani students during your stay here?
– Of course. The students here are very friendly. Before coming to Azerbaijan, I worried about this a lot, but my friends have treated me very kindly and have helped me with various issues. One interesting aspect is that some students here want to learn Chinese. I supported them in this process during my studies. While learning your language, I also tried to teach them mine.
– What will you remember most about BSU?
– BSU will always remain in my memory for its high-quality education and friendly students. It was wonderful to be part of such a big and welcoming family.
– What are your plans after returning to China?
– As soon as I return to China, I plan to introduce the saz to my friends. This will be my first task. I intend to continue learning Azerbaijani and further improve my language skills. In the future, I hope to teach Azerbaijani as a Chinese specialist.
