On the evening of September 22nd, 2025, as a key component of the 2025 China College Student Advertising Art Festival Academy Awards, the "Struggle for Youth · Prince Music Festival" Sichuan stop successfully concluded at the Sichuan University of Film and Television. Indonesian international students Stefanny Agustina and Dylan Maurice Christanto, majoring in music at the College of Chinese & ASEAN Arts, Chengdu University, stood out among numerous contestants with their original song "Restart" and outstanding stage performance, earning the Third Prize (3rd Place) in the competition. Their achievement fully demonstrates the artistic talent and vibrant spirit of our university's international students.
The competition brought together outstanding young students from numerous universities across the province. Stefanny Agustina and Dylan Maurice Christanto's entry, titled "Restart," with its sincere emotion, flowing melody, and heartfelt lyrics, vividly portrays their growth and transformation as international students pursuing education in China. The lyrics — "Always used to fall short, coming to China opened my eyes; though my voice may not be perfect, I can hear dreams in bloom" — are not only a genuine reflection of their personal journey but also a vivid testament to the college's efforts in advancing international education and promoting cultural exchange between China and other countries.
It is reported that the inspiration for this work originated from a casual conversation after a Chinese language class. When instructor Liu Qidong learned about Stefanny Agustina's musical aspirations and her reflections on studying abroad, he actively encouraged and guided the student to integrate her personal experiences with academic learning, using music to "sing her own story." From improvising melodic phrases to repeatedly refining the lyrics, they eventually completed this powerful and hopeful piece titled "Restart." Instructor Liu Qidong remarked, "While we have always been committed to telling China's stories, encouraging international students to interpret their own 'China stories' through their unique perspectives and talents represents an even more compelling form of cross-cultural communication."
Stefanny Agustina expressed that this award is a tremendous affirmation of her musical journey. She has always believed that music, more than words, can convey the waves of emotion within. Her study experience in China has not only enhanced her professional skills but also broadened her life perspective and served as a "restart" for her dreams. In the future, she hopes to create more works that integrate cultural elements from both countries, becoming a youth ambassador for cultural exchange between China and Indonesia.
This achievement also highlights the efforts and effectiveness of the International Department in building a multicultural campus and stimulating students' innovative and creative vitality. Moving forward, the department will continue to explore and deepen educational and teaching reforms, providing more platforms for Chinese and international students to showcase their talents and engage in mutual learning, thereby cultivating more internationally outstanding talents who know, befriend, and love China.
