A path to a dream: Ukrainian Year 9 pupils travel to China with Avers Express

Every great achievement begins with a decision. For four Ukrainian Year 9 pupils, it was the wish to study abroad in China. For Avers Express, it became another story we are proud of.

After the agreement was signed, a demanding but exciting preparation phase began. Together with students and parents, we chose institutions, considering subjects, accommodation and prospects. We completed applications, assembled documents, translated them and arranged notarisation and apostilles. Every page was checked carefully: the children’s dreams were at stake.

The documents went to Beijing and the waiting began. Finally came the long-awaited news: admission letters and the JW202 form had arrived! There was joy, happy tears and the realisation that the way was open.

Student visas were next. Documents, forms, submissions to the visa centre and a trip to Warsaw required coordination and support. Again, success: the students held passports with Chinese visas.

Then came preparations for departure: flights, packing and farewells to home towns. First a train to Budapest, then a flight to Beijing. Behind them were the miles travelled; ahead lay a new, unfamiliar and eagerly anticipated life.

Beijing welcomed them with its rhythm, scale and different surroundings. Three study at Beijing Jinsong Vocational High School and one at Beijing No. 65 Middle School.

After just over a month, they were already making confident progress in Chinese, adapting, making friends and gradually joining an international educational community.

The most valuable reward is their happy faces and the words, “We are glad we dared.” They are proud of themselves, and we are proud of them. Avers Express continues helping Ukrainian pupils access education abroad, from the first consultation to the first school bell in a new country. Great stories begin with a small step towards a dream.

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