March 5, 2023 marked the 60th Lei Feng Memorial Day, a day when the spirit of volunteerism is celebrated in China. College volunteer work has become the norm, and the Beijing International Volunteer Service Center initiated by the Beijing International Studies University (BISU) has served as a hub for volunteers from all walks of life. From the Belt and Road Forum to the Olympics, BISU volunteers are found actively participating in major events. 

“I’m worried that I don’t speak English fluently enough.” “I’m not capable enough.” “I’m afraid of volunteer work.” Volunteering is not always easy, especially for freshmen who may feel hesitant or anxious. It’s like the charm of a cliff, both frightening and alluring. In an interview with four student volunteers, they shared their experiences and views on how volunteering has helped them conquer their inner fears.

Meng Zhiyan, a junior volunteer, has invested almost a third of her time in volunteer work since her freshman year. Initially, she was shy and anxious when asked to use her Russian interpreting skills. However, as she gained more experience, she became more outgoing and even won the National Scholarship.

Meng Zhiyan serves as a volunteer during the Beijing 2022 Olympics. 

Wang Yuxuan, a finance major, initially found it challenging to communicate with people effectively, but with time, she has become a four-star volunteer in Beijing and the vice-chair of the BISU International Volunteer Service Center. 

“I like to gradually warm up to people, so I always stumble over my words at the beginning, not knowing how to respond to different needs,” said Wang. “I was really a bit rough around the edges back then,” she said.

Wang Yuxuan (center) attends the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2022 Olympics.

Talking about the change, Meng said, “Volunteering is a way to step out of your comfort zone and connect with society. As individuals, we can observmoments in people’s lives and in distant corners you’d never expect.” 

For shy students, volunteering is an excellent way to break out of their shell and connect with others naturally. Xue Youcheng, the counselor of the School of Interpreting and Translation, believes that volunteering not only provides students with opportunities to make new friends, but also helps them find like-minded people outside of campus. 

Meng and her friend enjoy their time together.

Meng and Wang both agree that the friendships they have formed are the most valuable thing they have gained from volunteering. With their friends' support, they have conquered their fears and accomplished things they never thought possible.

“In my three years as a volunteer, the company of my dear friends is the jewel in the crown, unforgettable and encouraging. With friends, you will spare no effort to conquer fear and just do it,” Meng said.

“You are such a nice person. I hope to see you again.” During the 2022 Winter Olympics, Wang Jiaxue, an English major from BISU’s Seven-year Comprehensive Training Program, helped and comforted Nina O’Brien, an American alpine skier who sustained an injury in a fall. They are still in touch even after the games had ended. 

Wang Jiaxue provides language services for Italian designers.

“Don’t cancel your trip to the cliff just because others dismiss it without the slightest thought!” Wang Jiaxue exclaimed. “And never doubt your ability before taking the first step!”

Volunteering is exciting because nobody knows what will happen next. Xue encourages students to take the first step and embrace new possibilities, even if it feels daunting at first.

Whether it's interpreting at a global event or comforting an injured athlete, volunteers can make a positive impact on people they meet. So, let's conquer our fears and embrace new possibilities by volunteering.