LIU Qifu: bridging language, music, and strength

When “Spanish major”, “saxophone soloist“, and “bodybuilding champion” all describe the same person, the story is bound to be remarkable. Meet LIU Qifu — a young man whose journey across disciplines reflects determination, creativity, and a clear sense of purpose.

Academic Vision and Original Aspiration 

“Choosing Spanish and aspiring to be a diplomat was something I decided back in high school,” says LIU with quiet confidence. Influenced by his family’s engagement with global affairs, he developed an early sense of connection to the world and a deep interest in international relations.

As he learned more about China’s diplomatic efforts, LIU became determined to use language as a bridge to global understanding. “The more I studied Spanish, the more I felt its warmth and vitality suited me perfectly,” he recalls.

Spanish, widely spoken across Latin America and Europe, connects many countries along the Belt and Road. Its global significance aligns with his passion for diplomacy and cross-cultural exchange. LIU hopes to use it as a medium to communicate, to understand, and to share stories from China with the world.

At the same time, the expressiveness and openness of the language mirror his optimistic and communicative nature. For him, mastering Spanish means blending personal passion with professional ambition — a choice that set the foundation for his academic journey.

The Music Within

Both on and off stage, LIU’s love for the saxophone is unmistakable. From his first encounter with the instrument in primary school to his return to structured performance at university, music has been an inseparable part of his life.

“Every rehearsal feels like a moment of peace,” he says. “Music helps me find balance and strength.” As a member of the university wind ensemble, he cherishes not only the joy of performance but also the collective sense of achievement that comes from making music together.

There was a time when he stepped away to explore water sports, but the pull of music brought him back. “Performing together gives me a deeper kind of happiness,” he explains. “The feeling of creating harmony as a group far outweighs any solo applause.”

Now performing as a saxophone soloist, LIU admits he still feels a hint of nervousness on stage — but full immersion in the music, and encouragement from his teachers and peers, keep him grounded.

He recalls one particularly emotional moment: “At Zhejiang University’s Voice of the University concert, I saw former band members in the audience. I felt an indescribable sense of continuity — the music lives on through every generation.”

Strength and Self-Discipline

“Stay true to the traits that make you different — that’s your source of power.”

In a world that often favors conformity, LIU has found strength in persistence. Since middle school, he has maintained a strict fitness routine for over seven years, combining training with careful nutrition.

Fitness, he says, has transformed not only his physique but also his mindset. It provides the energy to meet academic and personal challenges, while the tangible progress of consistent training builds his confidence and self-awareness.

His dedication led him into bodybuilding, where he has achieved strong results in several competitions. “The hardest part of preparing for a contest is the emotional challenge of cutting carbohydrates,” he admits. “But years of training have strengthened my willpower and taught me how to maintain balance amid pressure.”

For LIU, fitness is not about appearance — it’s about discipline, perseverance, and growth. It’s a way to connect with others and to build a better version of himself, one that’s ready to face a bigger world.

Growing Through Diversity

“Everyone’s time and energy are limited; it’s impossible to excel at everything,” says LIU. “The key is to set your priorities, stay focused, and keep improving your core strengths.”

To students who dream of exploring multiple fields, he offers encouragement: “Use your university years to try new things. Be bold in pursuing what you truly love.”

LIU often describes himself as “a lucky person.” Yet behind that “luck” lies effort, clarity, and consistency. From setting his direction early to achieving balanced growth across disciplines, he exemplifies the determination of a new generation of Chinese youth.

Looking ahead, LIU hopes to keep integrating his love of language, music, and fitness into both his career and his life — using his energy and voice to share the story of China’s young generation with the world.

Adapted and translated from the article written by Department of Public Physical and Art Education

Translator: HUANG Ruilin (26' English)

Photo: the interviewees

Editor: HAN Xiao