Azerbaijani Student Taghiyeva Leyla: I Named My Daughter 'Yangyang', Inspired by the 'Yang' in 'Shenyang'

Taghiyeva Leyla, an international student from Azerbaijan, secured a full scholarship and pursued her undergraduate degree at Liaoning University in 2014 after passing the examination and interview organized by the Ministry of Education of Azerbaijan. That was her first time coming to Shenyang.

It was also in that same year that Leyla met Assaf, who was also from Azerbaijan and was working in Shenyang. During those days in Shenyang, Leyla was lucky both in love and in studies.

"2018 was a double blessing for me - I successfully graduated from my undergraduate program, and my eldest daughter was born here in Shenyang. Given the profound connection our entire family has with Shenyang, we named our daughter 'Yangyang', which draws inspiration from the 'Yang' in 'Shenyang'," Leyla recalled.

Leyla's three daughters (photo by Leyla)

After obtaining her undergraduate degree, Leyla returned to Azerbaijan and gave birth to twin girls. In 2022, Leyla applied for and once again received a full national scholarship, earning admission to the Northeastern University for a master's degree in public administration. The family relocated back to Shenyang. 

Leyla (photo by Zhu Hongmei)

Regarding why she chose to study in Shenyang twice, Leyla explained, "I knew before that this place has a profound history and a good cultural environment. As a student, I first considered that the presence of many famous universities and research institutions in Shenyang can provide international students with a lot of opportunities for learning and personal development."

Leyla (first from right) in class (photo by Zhu Hongmei)

Leyla (first from right) and her classmates walking on the campus of Northeastern University (photo by Zhu Hongmei)

Leyla (first from right) eating hot pot with her classmates (photo by Zhu Hongmei)

Speaking of Shenyang's food, Leyla put it frankly that she is a great fan of Lao Bian Dumpling, Majia Shaomai (steamed pork dumplings), stewed goose/fish in iron pot, hot pot, etc.

Living in Shenyang, Leyla has found the unique charm of this city. It has a long history and rich cultural heritage, but is also full of vitality and modern elements, allowing her to enjoy a convenient life and experience diverse cultures.

"I love this city very much and enjoy every day I spend here," exclaimed Leyla.