Imagine digging a tunnel from China straight through the Earth’s core, where would you end up? For Mauricio Barengo, the answer is simple: “That’s my home country!” Driven by a deep love for Chinese culture, Mauricio, a native of Argentina, chose to pursue a master’s degree at China Agricultural University three years ago.
Born in San Salvador de Jujuy, where his family runs a farm, Mauricio discovered Chinese kung fu, or martial arts, at the age of six. This early fascination quietly took root. During his undergraduate studies, he took a Chinese language course, driven by a desire to challenge himself.
“Chinese is difficult, but I was determined to master it,” he said. “Language is the key to culture, and learning Chinese meant immersing myself in that culture.”
After graduation, he continued his studies online through the Confucius Institute, captivated by China’s unique charm and immense potential, which eventually led him to study in the country.
In 2022, Mauricio arrived in China, immersing himself immediately in the local way of life. His Chinese skills improved rapidly, and through everyday interactions, he gained a deeper understanding of the culture.
“I’m curious about how people live here,” he said.
“To truly understand a country, you need to understand its culture and lifestyle,” he added.
Martial arts became his gateway to this cultural exploration. In 2023, while pursuing his horticulture degree at China Agricultural University, Mauricio joined a martial arts training camp for international students in Beijing. There, he met fellow enthusiasts from around the world. Despite their varying levels of experience, they shared a passion for kung fu. Each grueling training session deepened his appreciation for Chinese traditions.
He also discovered the philosophical depth to martial arts, recognizing it not only as a physical practice but as a journey of self-cultivation. Inspired by the teachings of Laozi, a great philosopher who lived more than 2,400 years ago, Mauricio explored the concept of harmony between humans and nature.
Through practice, he learned to control his body and emotions, achieving a sense of balance. Watching elderly Chinese practicing tai chi in parks — integrating martial arts into their daily routines — further inspired him. This lifestyle, rooted in discipline and harmony, resonated deeply.
Mauricio also found parallels between horticulture and martial arts. Both, he believes, require a delicate balance between logic and intuition, attention to detail, and emotional investment.
“Horticulture nurtures life and fosters harmony with nature. Martial arts cultivate the mind and body, striving for the same unity,” he explained.
Having fallen in love with China, Mauricio hopes to build a life here after graduation and continue contributing to the story of cultural exchange between Argentina and China, which he now calls his “second home”.
Mauricio’s passion for China and the Chinese culture is also supported by China Agricultural University, as the university has long encouraged international students to blend academic learning with cultural immersion.
Through programs that integrate agricultural education with Chinese traditions, the university helps students like Mauricio grow both personally and professionally, fostering lasting cross-cultural ties.
