Beijing, the hub of scientific innovation and international academic exchange in China, attracts researchers from all over the world. Among them is Professor Ross Mitchell, a geologist from the United States. With a passion for knowledge and persistence in scientific exploration, he came to Beijing to pursue his research in geology. His story is about a journey of integrating Eastern and Western wisdom, overcoming cultural differences, and chasing dreams.

Ross Mitchell’s Journey to Beijing

When I first met Ross, he had just finished an online Chinese class and was practicing what he learned today. Although he is a seasoned researcher at the Institute of Geology and Geophysics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (IGGCAS), he approaches learning Chinese with the dedication of a student.

As we walked to his office, Ross engaged in friendly conversations in Chinese with the security guards, colleagues, and students, reflecting the familiarity and friendliness he has built. Remarkably, before this, Ross had never been to China, and needless to say had never learned Chinese.

Ross Mitchell takes a photo at the gate of IGGCAS.

Ross pursued his Ph.D. at Yale University, followed by a postdoctoral position at the California Institute of Technology, and then took up his first job in Australia. During his time in Australia, which is in the same time zone as China, he often heard about China from his Chinese colleagues and his supervisor. In 2019, invited by a former colleague, Ross came to Beijing for an interview and then he made the challenging yet exciting decision to move from Australia to China, marking the beginning of an adventurous four-year journey.

Born in the United States, raised in France, and having conducted extensive research in Australia, as a geologist who studies crustal evolution, Ross loves adventure. So, what motivated him to choose China, specifically Beijing, for the next chapter of his academic career?

Embracing the Challenge

“Without risk, there is no reward,” is a principle Ross lives by. Moving to a country he had never visited to start a new job certainly entailed risks. However, Ross felt reassured by the connections he had already established with Chinese colleagues and the ambition of Chinese scientists. Dedication and competitiveness are qualities he admires in them.

After earning his Ph.D., Ross gained six years of postdoctoral experience and was looking for a stable job where he wouldn’t have to reapply every few years. He found the reliable funding and clear path to professorship at CAS very appealing, as they allow scientists to fully commit to their research.

In Ross’s office, a table displays dozens of colorful rocks from different geological eras. Each specimen holds a story, often involving his students. Ross also serves as a mentor for master’s and Ph.D. students at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, giving him direct insight into the younger generation of Chinese scientists. Understanding their educational and cultural backgrounds, Ross is trying to provide them with academic guidance based on their characteristics.

In the United States, children are encouraged to express their interests openly. Ross finds that Chinese students are sometimes less forthcoming but excel in other areas, like mental arithmetic, which impresses him. Chinese students diligently complete assignments, a contrast to some of his experiences with American students. His goal is to become a professor who effectively supports Chinese students.

Ross’s students appreciate his expertise and humorous, engaging teaching style. Liu Xu, his first student, mentioned the initial language barrier but praised Ross’s patience and willingness to explain difficult terms. Other students enjoy his use of body language and interactive games to enliven classes. In addition, Ross cares about students’ lives after class and shares his interests and hobbies, even occasionally playing guitar for them.

Adapting to Life in Beijing

Adapting to a new country is never easy. Ross admitted that before coming to China, his knowledge of the country was limited to using chopsticks and the Great Wall. Yet, as a geologist accustomed to working in unfamiliar areas, he quickly adapted to life in Beijing.

Initially unaware of public transport options, he walked to work, sweating in the summer heat. Gradually, he learned to use buses, marveled at their convenience, and adjusted his commute according to traffic conditions.

Beijing’s international environment offers ample opportunities for cross-cultural interactions. Ross frequently participates in activities organized for overseas talents. In addition to his Chinese colleagues, he has made friends in various fields from a number of countries. This diverse social circle also brought unexpected blessings; a French philosopher friend introduced him to a Beijing girl who is now his wife. They will marry in June.

Outside his professional life, Ross’s routine includes Chinese classes and regular gym sessions, fostering a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. In 2021, he received a permanent residence ID card for foreigners, proudly calling himself an American Beijinger. This card with the number starting with USA1100 symbolizes his deep integration into Chinese society, allowing him to navigate life in China as seamlessly as a local.

Ross now enjoys a successful career and a happy marriage in Beijing. He stands on this land of endless possibilities, ready to embrace new challenges and write the next chapter of his life.

This welcoming land continues to attract dream chasers from around the globe, offering them a stage to pursue their aspirations and find their place.

Source: BRTV