October 15, 2021, marks the 120th anniversary of Shandong University (SDU). Located on the northeast coast of China，Shandong University takes its name from Shandong province. Historically, Shandong province has a rich heritage of education and wisdom dating back to ancient times as it is the land and the hometown of China's ancient sage Confucius.

My journey to SDU started in September 2019, when I arrived here to pursue my PhD degree in Biomedical Engineering, flying all the way from Thailand, where I pursued my MS degree. I am a native of Yemen, and I have spent the last decade travelling and pursuing education in southeast Asia. However, when I arrived at the campus, I was astonished by so many things. The fusion of ancient and modern architecture, the preserved heritage, and the technological advancements amalgamated at one place are astonishing.

While realizing the long and successful journey undertaken by the university over the years, I felt the utmost urge to write about some of the key achievements of this esteemed institution on the occasion of the completion of its 120 years of existence.

Since the day I stepped into the University, I have learned, read, and witnessed a lot of signs that tell me about the impressive milestones and incredible journey of Shandong University and its community that reflects upon its many distinguished accomplishments. I have read that the university has gone through several transformations and name changes throughout its long history; however, many things of SDU have remained persistent: its dedication to education and high output research as it becomes a comprehensive university with a high academic reputation and multiple disciplines.

Furthermore, it is really wonderful to see our university grow tremendously, focusing on attracting talents, reviving academic life, serving Shandong province, guiding prosperity through culture, internationalizing and pursuing integrated development over the last few years. The growth and expansion of the university have been truly remarkable and noticeable. During my stay at Shandong University for two years, I realized that the university and its community work hard to nurture talents for the world and pursue national prosperity.

As a member of this esteemed university, I can say with full confidence that SDU has always been ensuring to strive for the mission of "nurture talent for the world and seek prosperity for the nation" andmotto of being "noble in spirit, endless in knowledge".

Finally, on this remarkable and historical day of the 120^thyear of success, with love and support, I humbly express my gratitude to my university and wish all its community a very successful journey ahead, "HAPPY 120^thANNIVERSARY".

Written by: Yousif A. Algabri from School of Control Science and Engineering