Study at a completely different environment brings significant benefits. People who speak different language have their own way of handling matters and think differently. I am so grateful for meeting friends and mentors whose ways of thinking are vastly different from mine. While sharing the same aspirations. As for the gains, in short term, one's mindset, methods, and perspectives on handling matters will be greatly enhanced. In the long run, there will be a deeper understanding of the local culture and academic environment, as well as a substantial improvement in my study abilities. If conditions allow, I highly recommend going out to see the world, and I particularly recommend credit exchange programs for their strong professional focus. Although the pressure would be intense, taking on such challenges can make a real difference.

During the 2023 Cambridge Summer Research Programme, I was introduced to the concept of existence theory, offering a fresh approach to sociological research. This was my first intercultural research experience, which made it particularly impactful. Collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds, I gained a deeper appreciation for teamwork and cross-cultural communication. The experience not only marked a significant academic milestone but also served as a powerful reminder of how international collaboration can expand one’s worldview and foster greater understanding. It continues to shape my academic and professional pursuits.

In addition, I attended the Cambridge Shakespeare Festival, where I watched Romeo and Juliet. The performance took place in a secluded, beautiful garden, with picnic blankets casually spread out and audience members sipping wine. People of all ages and nationalities gathered, and the experience of watching the play felt like an organic part of life itself. Before the show, the staff simply encouraged everyone to “enjoy yourself,” with the only rule being no photos or videos. I was deeply impressed by the relaxed and vibrant atmosphere, which perfectly encapsulated the spirit of Cambridge.

Kia Ora! I’m Li Yilin, a 2021 undergraduate student majoring in Communication (Sino-foreign Cooperative Education) at Communication University of Zhejiang. It is my honour to share my one-year academic exchange experience at Victoria University of Wellington. This cross-hemispheric journey not only expanded my academic perspectives but also provided profound insights into intercultural communication within a globalized context.

My initial impression of Wellington remains vivid—the city, renowned as “Windy City”, greeted us with its characteristic drizzle and ocean breezes. However, the warmth of the university community quickly dispelled any sense of unfamiliarity. The orientation event, featuring faculty introductions and local cuisine, offered my first genuine connection with the city. Additionally, the faculty organized a guided tour of Wellington’s cultural landmarks, including Oriental Bay’s coastal scenery, the vibrant local markets, and the national museum Te Papa. These experiences facilitated my cultural adaptation while demonstrating how intercultural exchange manifests in daily life.

Academically, my three years of bilingual education at CUZ prepared me well for VUW’s academic environment. The pedagogical approach here, however, presented a refreshing contrast to Chinese teaching methodologies. Courses emphasized critical discussion over direct knowledge transmission, with professors employing case studies to stimulate independent analysis. In my Media course, for instance, we examined global media trends while conducting localized analyses of New Zealand’s media landscape. This approach significantly broadened my academic vision and enhanced my critical thinking capabilities.

This experience also provided exceptional opportunities for intercultural academic exchange. During a tutorial with a Singaporean classmate, we analysed media phenomena from diverse national perspectives. This experience highlighted the intellectual richness that emerges from cultural diversity in academic discourse.

Grateful to our government and my school for giving young people a global stage —to learn, to grow, and to fully engage.

It was an honor to serve as a youth volunteer at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.


As a member of Chinese youth,

We will keep striving, brave and bright,

Showing our strength, and sharing our light.

During the summer vacation of my junior year, I embarked on a journey to London and embarked on an unforgettable inter-professional study tour at the University of the Arts London. As a student majoring in radio and television directing, this cross-professional exchange and learning not only expanded my knowledge field, but also gave me a new understanding of the major I am about to apply for as a graduate student.

The three-week course is compact and fulfilling, from fashion brand management to marketing, from sustainable fashion to trend forecasting, each class is like opening the door to a new world. The professors’ explanations in simple and easy-to-understand terms, combined with interactive forms such as case analysis and group discussions, allowed me to quickly integrate into it and gradually developed a strong interest in fashion business. In my spare time, I travel to major museums and art galleries in London, from fashion exhibitions at the V&A Museum to avant-garde installations at the Tate Modern, absorbing artistic nutrients and inspiring creative inspiration.

In addition to classroom study, I also had an in-depth experience of British culture during my study tour. Strolling through the ancient colleges of Oxford and Cambridge, you can feel the strong academic atmosphere; standing on the white cliffs, looking at the magnificent English Channel, your heart is filled with a desire to explore the unknown. This unique experience not only broadened my horizons, but also gave me more thoughts and possibilities for future career development.

During this study visit, I was fortunate enough to study the challenging course of Art History Criticism and Communication at Central Saint Martins. The course content is rich and colorful, including in-depth visits to art exhibitions, which allowed me to appreciate the diversity and tolerance of modern art; in-depth discussions on the ideas of the world's cutting-edge artists, which gave me a deeper understanding of art; and practical exercises in writing papers, which improved my academic abilities. From the modern art exhibition at Tate Modern, I felt the impact and shock of contemporary art; from the Barbican, a brutalist architectural dystopia, I appreciated the unique charm and creativity of architectural art; from Lonnie Holley's humanities exhibition at the Canton Art Center, I experienced the warmth and power of humanistic care; from the historical treasures of the British Museum, I traced the long history of human civilization and felt the weight of history and the heritage of culture.

Every day at UAL is full of challenges and rewards. I not only learned professional knowledge and skills, but also learned how to live independently, how to get along with others, and how to find my own place and direction in a foreign country.

During the exchange study program with Universitas Mercu Buana in Indonesia, I gained knowledge, friendship, and a new sense of self - awareness.

First, there were intense exchanges of learning and ideas. We joined Indonesian students’ classes, participated in group discussions, planned video projects, and shared photography and video editing tips. The visit to Metro TV was particularly memorable. Talking face - to - face with hosts, I learned about the local operation of the Chinese - language channel. This experience broadened my professional perspective and showed me the diversity and challenges in the media industry across different cultures.

In terms of cultural exchanges, I had a fulfilling time. Visits to the National Museum of Indonesia, Jakarta History Museum, and other places deepened my understanding of Indonesia’s history and culture. Indonesian students were extremely friendly and always initiated conversations. In our free time, we watched movies, made handicrafts, played badminton, sang and played music, chatted casually, tried traditional massages and played local instruments, and enjoyed delicious food. All these experiences made me feel the warmth of the Indonesian people and their laid - back lifestyle.

Finally, this exchange opened up new perspectives and choices for my life plan. Hearing how Indonesian students prepared for studying in China, I realized I didn’t want a repetitive life and should explore more possibilities. Overall, this exchange with Universitas Mercu Buana was a precious experience. It enriched my knowledge, broadened my global view, helped me gain sincere friendships, and led to my growth and transformation.