Warm companionship from Communication University of Zhejiang (CUZ)
Summer flies by in the blink of an eye, and CUZ international students have filled theirs with diverse and enriching experiences. They crossed cultures, challenged themselves, shone in international competitions, served quietly as volunteers, and found joy on the sports field. Let’s take a closer look at their vibrant summer stories!
Yue Opera Meets Peking Opera: Feeling, Challenge, and Stage Brilliance
Liew Zhu Hui (Malaysia), Class of 2023, Editing and Publishing
This summer, Liew Zhu Hui traveled to Beijing to compete in the 5th Telling China’s Stories in English Contest. She told of her love for Yue Opera, from hearing Jiangnan Is Good at the Hangzhou Asian Games to the moving story of The Butterfly Lovers. In the talent round, she challenged herself with the Peking Opera piece Ode to Pear Blossoms. Though the pronunciation was difficult, she attended Peking Opera classes and practiced tirelessly. On stage, fan in hand, she gave a heartfelt performance of Lady Yang, winning thunderous applause and the contest’s “Star of Elegance” award, the only one in the international student category.
A Summer of Sharing and Reunion
Babaryka Hanna (Republic of Belarus), Class of 2023, Broadcasting and Hosting Arts
For Anna, the summer was about returning home to Belarus. Between sunsets and sightseeing with friends, she became a “Chinese Culture Ambassador,” sharing her CUZ experiences and stories of China with curiosity-filled listeners. Her summer was both healing and a chance to plant seeds of friendship and cultural understanding.
Stage Lights: Growth On and Off the Spotlight
Chuah Yi Yin (Malaysia), Class of 2023, Bilingual Broadcasting and Hosting Arts
At the 7th National Finals of the Chinese Classics Recitation Contest, Cai Yiyin played both performer and volunteer. With only 10 days to rehearse, she and her team worked tirelessly to polish their group recitation. As a volunteer, she was responsible for critical scoring tasks, exercising patience and precision under pressure. From performing on stage to ensuring fairness behind the scenes, she gained confidence, friendships, and invaluable experience.
Voice of Jiangnan: A Cross-Cultural Journey
Tan Wei Qi Shanyce (Malaysia), Class of 2022, Bilingual Broadcasting and Hosting Arts
As a volunteer at the Overseas Youth Media Experience Camp, Chen Weiqi hosted ceremonies and guided participants through Hangzhou’s history and culture. From West Lake to Gongchen Bridge, and from making tea to traditional pastries, she turned culture into hands-on experiences. It was both an act of service and a rich cultural exchange, deepening friendships and broadening horizons.
An Active Summer: New Skills, New Energy
Kayley Looi (Malaysia), Class of 2022, Bilingual Broadcasting and Hosting Arts
Back home in Malaysia, Kayley Looi reunited with friends and discovered two new sports: golf and pickleball. From struggling at first to finding joy in practice and competition, she embraced challenge and fun, gaining new hobbies to carry forward.
Thor Tian Xing (Malaysia), Class of 2023, Broadcasting and TV Directing (Documentary)
In Penang, the sea inspired her to overcome a lifelong fear of water. She signed up for swimming lessons, progressing from hesitation to freedom in the pool. This reconciliation with the ocean became her summer gift to herself—an act of courage and growth.
Exploring Xinjiang: Between Mountains and Grasslands
Bilgen Mehmet (Turkey), Class of 2024, Language Program
Visiting Xinjiang was a feast for the senses: clear lakes, vast grasslands, and warm hospitality. He rode horses across the prairie, enjoyed local cuisine, and experienced the region’s vibrant cultural diversity. For him, it was both a breathtaking journey and a meaningful cultural exchange.
Climbing Yellow Mountain
Low Poh Yee (Malaysia), Class of 2022, Bilingual Broadcasting and Hosting Arts
Rain and mist shrouded Huangshan during her climb, but every step up the steep paths was a test of endurance and willpower. Though she missed the famous sunrise, the journey itself became her most precious memory, inspiring her to explore more of China’s natural wonders.
Beijing Beyond the Stage
Chin Lee En (Malaysia), Class of 2023, Bilingual Broadcasting and Hosting Arts
After winning her award in Beijing, Chin Li En explored the city’s old alleys and cultural heart: the Drum Tower, Shichahai, Dashilan, and more. From Beijing duck to crosstalk, stand-up comedy, and theater, she immersed herself in the city’s flavors and sounds. The trip was both an honor and a cultural deep dive, reaffirming her commitment to be a voice for cultural exchange.
Safeguarding Heritage Through Film
Teoh Zi Yi (Malaysia), Class of 2023, Film and Television Photography and Production
Ngew Zi Yin (Malaysia), Class of 2023, TV Program Production
The two chose to document Malaysia’s intangible cultural heritage—the 24 Festive Drum. Despite challenges, they persisted, interviewing coaches and founders who shared their passion for preservation. They learned that the drum is more than an art—it is a symbol of multicultural unity and vitality.
Across Mountains and Seas, With Passion and Light
Every departure expands their horizons. Every return brings new energy to their dreams. As the new semester begins, CUZ international students will continue to write exciting new chapters of youth, weaving together learning, culture, and growth.
