There are many foreigners living in Urumqi. Sandra Fernandez from the Philippines is one of them. She's been living in the city for 10 years and is a teacher at the Xinjiang University of Finance and Economics. She was shocked by the July 5th riot. After this tragedy, she did not choose to leave, because she wanted to witness the recovery of this once prosperous city.

During the riot, Sandra Fernandez was in her dorm. She had no idea of what was happening.

But after looking at pictures on the internet, she says it felt like a nightmare.

Sandra said the whole event left her heartbroken. She believes the riot was organized.

Sandra says the riot did not impact the relationship between the Uygurs and Hans in her campus. They are studying together and chatting as usual.

Two of Sandra's friends join her for lunch. They are also from the Philippines. Both of them say nothing has changed in the city.

(CCTV July 14, 2009)