Date: September 15th,2026
Today is a sports day. I rode my bicycle back from work, and the total distance was more than 23 kilometers. I switched my navigation app. I used to use Amap, but its voice prompt is too noisy. I can hardly listen to other audio programs at the same time.
I named today’s diary Pick up English Learning, because I listened to BBC Learning English during my bike ride. It brought me back to my school days. BBC News used to be one of my core English learning materials. Each episode starts with a question. The hosts interact with one another; one puts forward guesses, and the other reveals the correct answer at the end. Every episode only lasts six minutes. I find it really practical. Within this short span, there are roughly five key words or phrases for me to learn.
I want to retrieve the passion, focus, learning methods and goals I had back in university. Improving my English is absolutely meaningful. When I studied for my DSW program at East China University of Science and Technology, I learned that some students once got the opportunity to visit New York University during summer break. I hope I can apply for similar opportunities in my DSW study. On one hand, it broadens my horizons. On the other hand, I can access cutting-edge professional knowledge in social work. This attracts me a lot.
It reminds me of my postgraduate study. I chose East China University partly because of its exchange program in Hong Kong, including field internships. I seized that precious chance eventually. I feel so grateful to pursue my doctoral degree now.
I know this journey will be tough. There is an upcoming forum for doctoral students. I planned to collect relevant information and draft an article before the end of September. Now it is already mid-September, and I haven’t started yet. Of course, I made excuses for myself: I have been swamped with heavy tasks this month.
But I have to admit: if I truly want something, I need to find a way to make it happen. It does not have to be perfect, but it has to get done. I need to take small steps toward my goal. I cannot give up without trying. This shows a weakness in my DSW journey. If I keep shrinking back, how can I finish the whole doctoral program, let alone write the lengthy graduation thesis in the end?
I hope I can face challenges bravely and keep moving forward, just like riding a bicycle — keep pedalling ahead.
That’s all for today. I hope I can keep practising English and break through my fear of writing. That is one of the key reasons I pursue further education. I must overcome this weakness, and I believe I can make it.
