A global scholar's adventure to China, driven by a love for space
Bruce, an international student from Ghana, has embarked on a journey to China to fulfill his aspirations in aerospace technology. Currently a PhD candidate at Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi'an, his dedication to aerospace is rooted in a long-standing interest in the field. Additionally, his childhood admiration for the Chinese classic "Journey to the West" played a significant role in inspiring his ambition to make a meaningful contribution to this industry.
TroibNews 
Bruce, hailing from Ghana, embarked on an incredible journey to China, fueled by his interest in aerospace technology. He is currently studying for a PhD in Aerospace Science and Technology at Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi'an, actively engaged in pioneering research concerning propellant combustion and related fields.
Since his early years in Ghana, Bruce was enchanted by the Chinese classic "Journey to the West," frequently shown on national TV. "I love the character; I kind of relate to him because even though he has weaknesses, he still tries to give his best self," Bruce said.
Inspired, Bruce pursued aerospace studies in Ghana, earning his Bachelor of Science degree before heading to China for further education.
After obtaining his master's degree from the Beijing Institute of Technology in 2022, Bruce moved to Xi'an to enhance his research on the combustion reaction mechanisms of propellants at the School of Aerospace Science and Technology at Northwestern Polytechnical University. His exposure to an open experimental environment and various academic activities has expanded his perspectives.
"We do experiments that are really advanced in the development of the space industry in China and the whole world," said Bruce, emphasizing the importance of a proactive approach.
"Once you put your mind into it, you can do it," he reflected.
Bruce observed that living in China has enriched his knowledge of its extensive history and culture, which were previously less known to him in Africa. "Being in China really enlightened me about Chinese culture as a whole and, of course, the aerospace industry," Bruce remarked.
Initially, Bruce's parents considered his pursuit of aerospace studies as "unrealistic", but his accomplishments in China have reinforced his determination and boosted his confidence in the sector. Bruce mentioned that he stays updated with every space launch and watches entire video broadcasts.
Throughout his five years of academic pursuits, Bruce consistently excelled academically and garnered numerous accolades. He credits the ongoing cooperation and historic friendship between China and Africa for his progress. As an esteemed student ambassador, Bruce now promotes the story of China's aerospace industry to an expanding audience.
Bruce's goal is to contribute to the development of rocket engine technology through his academic efforts and dedication. He also dreams of joining the Chinese space station as an aerospace engineer in the future.
"I hope that one day I'll be choosing to go there, that will really be a dream come true," he expressed his aspirations.
Sophie Wagner for TROIB News
Since his early years in Ghana, Bruce was enchanted by the Chinese classic "Journey to the West," frequently shown on national TV. "I love the character; I kind of relate to him because even though he has weaknesses, he still tries to give his best self," Bruce said.
Inspired, Bruce pursued aerospace studies in Ghana, earning his Bachelor of Science degree before heading to China for further education.
After obtaining his master's degree from the Beijing Institute of Technology in 2022, Bruce moved to Xi'an to enhance his research on the combustion reaction mechanisms of propellants at the School of Aerospace Science and Technology at Northwestern Polytechnical University. His exposure to an open experimental environment and various academic activities has expanded his perspectives.
"We do experiments that are really advanced in the development of the space industry in China and the whole world," said Bruce, emphasizing the importance of a proactive approach.
"Once you put your mind into it, you can do it," he reflected.
Bruce observed that living in China has enriched his knowledge of its extensive history and culture, which were previously less known to him in Africa. "Being in China really enlightened me about Chinese culture as a whole and, of course, the aerospace industry," Bruce remarked.
Initially, Bruce's parents considered his pursuit of aerospace studies as "unrealistic", but his accomplishments in China have reinforced his determination and boosted his confidence in the sector. Bruce mentioned that he stays updated with every space launch and watches entire video broadcasts.
Throughout his five years of academic pursuits, Bruce consistently excelled academically and garnered numerous accolades. He credits the ongoing cooperation and historic friendship between China and Africa for his progress. As an esteemed student ambassador, Bruce now promotes the story of China's aerospace industry to an expanding audience.
Bruce's goal is to contribute to the development of rocket engine technology through his academic efforts and dedication. He also dreams of joining the Chinese space station as an aerospace engineer in the future.
"I hope that one day I'll be choosing to go there, that will really be a dream come true," he expressed his aspirations.
Sophie Wagner for TROIB News
