Recently, the University received letters of appreciation from the Qinshui Liting residential quarter, in Ningbo. The residents' committee wanted to thank Yingjie Chen, a year one student studying Chemistry, and Qingqi Ding, a year one engineering student, for their volunteer work in the community during the epidemic period.

Yingjie said his work started at 6 am at the entrance to the community. Every day, he cooperated with community staff to measure body temperatures, verify health codes, register entrants and so on. Despite the cold winter morning weather, he never arrived late or left early. "As a member of the community, I felt that I should contribute to epidemic prevention," he said. 

At the beginning of the epidemic outbreak, people were quite reluctant to come into close contact with others. However, Yingjie was among the first to sign up and inspired many other students to join the efforts.

Qingqi also signed up without hesitation once she knew that the community was recruiting volunteers. She was very conscientious and responsible and often worked till late.

Yaoping Huang, a year four student from Liaoning Province, joined the local youth volunteers in early February to help with disinfection and to promote the epidemic prevention work. "I think this is just what I should do for my beloved hometown," he said.  

The experience has also given students a fresh perspective on work. "I now admire the security staff from the bottom of my heart because now I fully recognise how much efforts they have paid," said Yilin Chen, another student volunteer.

There have also been numerous planned and random acts of kindness and initiative by students during the epidemic.

In mid-February, Zhejiang Province adopted different coloured health codes. Seven students used the techniques they learned at UNNC to collect the health code data, therefore reducing the burden for staff on campus. From planning to testing, the student team developed a Wechat mini-programme in only two days.

The UNNC Orchestra performed Coldplay's Viva La Vida as a "virtual ensemble”, hoping that the power of music would help those seriously affected by the Covid-19 lockdown.

Additionally, some of the international students who remained on campus during the winter break volunteered to procure daily supplies for students on campus and answer questions online. 44 students also volunteered to assist those returning to campus after it was reopened.

During this difficult period, UNNC students have been devoted to serving the community and making their contributions to society.