Exchange students look forward to Chinese experience

For this semester, UIC has welcomed eight incoming exchange students from four different Western countries.

The incoming exchange students came from UIC partners, which include Swansea University in the UK, Saint Mary's University in Canada, Pforzheim University in Germany as well as Concordia College and Hamline University in the US.

The exchange students were given a tour around Zhuhai city where they were shown different places of interest on 25 February. The exchange students were guided by staff from the International Development Office (IDO) in addition to student helpers where they were taken to the Zhuhai Fisher Girl statue as well as visiting the Putuo Temple. To end the day, the exchange students were taken to buy SIM cards as well as being given a tour of Youngmix shopping centre in the Xiangzhou area of Zhuhai.



A visit to the Zhuhai Fisher Girl statue





Outside the Putuo Temple

On 26 February, the exchange students were given an orientation. Firstly, Director of IDO, Dr Katharina Yu explained about life on campus, the rules as well as some tips for if they decide to go travelling. IDO Administrative Officer, Jessica Xiao, then spoke to the students about other issues. Then representatives from the Whole Person Education Office (WPEO), Academic Registry (AR), Information Technology Service Centre (ITSC) as well as the Student Affairs Office (SAO) gave an introduction and told the international students what they can offer them. After that, the students were given a tour around the Learning Resource Centre. Once the tour had finished, the students took part in a placement test to see what their level of the language is for when they start Chinese language study.



Dr Yu gives a talk to the exchange students about China and travelling

Pforzheim University exchange student, Mr Mario Pezelj was asked why he chose to study at UIC and he said “I choose UIC for my exchange semester because I want to explore Chinese culture and for that UIC seems to be the best opportunity. Located in a very livable and exciting area it is the best choice to have a great time.”

Swansea University exchange student, Ms Molly Robin said “I chose to do a semester abroad at UIC because I thought it would be exciting, as I've never been to China before. I am looking forward to learning about Chinese culture and making new friends” when asked why she chose UIC.

If you see them on campus, remember to say “Hello” and get to know our new international students.

Reporter/Photographer: Samuel Burgess

Editor: Deen He

(from MPRO)