Fudan University fosters cross-cultural exchange through international summer session

english.shanghai.gov.cn| August 04, 2025
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​International students participate in the Fudan International Summer Session (FISS). [Photo/ International Students Office of Fudan University]

The Fudan International Summer Session concluded with a heartfelt farewell party on July 25.

Behind the impressive figures — one year of preparation, six corporate visits, 13 cultural activities, 44 specialized courses, 50 teaching assistants, 53 instructors, 53 countries and regions, 56 "buddies" and nearly 1,000 students from 173 world-leading universities — lies a true convergence of borders, cultures, and disciplines.

Marking its 10th consecutive year, FISS 2025 introduced medical sciences as its newest academic discipline, expanding its curriculum to include eight areas: business and economics, law, society and politics, history and culture, science and technology, Chinese language, sports, and medical sciences.

The 44 selected courses offered both Chinese and international perspectives, with topics ranging from contemporary Chinese economy and Chinese Intellectual Property Law to the wonders of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Belt and Road Initiative: opportunities and challenges, AI in financial technology, and cultural resource development in Chinese cities.

All the courses were taught by renowned scholars from Fudan University and other leading global institutions, fully demonstrating Fudan and China's commitment to openness, inclusiveness, and wisdom. The exchange of ideas in the classroom ignited the curiosity and enthusiasm of global youth, inspiring them to further explore Chinese culture.

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​International students participate in Fudan International Summer Session. [Photo/ International Students Office of Fudan University]

Beyond the classroom, students visited ancient towns and experienced traditional Chinese culture, such as diancha, a tea-whisking technique resembling latte art, calligraphy, and lion dance performances.

Through six corporate visits and 13 cultural excursions, students acquired a deep understanding of China's fusion of tradition and modernity, noting that Fudan has brought the classroom to the streets of Shanghai.

Within just a few weeks, students from around the world connected and forged lasting friendships at Fudan. They collaborated on case studies, capturing memorable moments with group photos by the Huangpu River. As the session ended, "See you next year!" echoed among new friends.

The close of FISS 2025 is not an end, but a new beginning. Fudan University will continue promoting its International Summer Session to provide a diverse, high-quality platform for cross-cultural exchange.

 

Source: Official WeChat account of the International Students Office of Fudan University at "fudaniso"