Eighteen students from the United States arrived at East China Normal University on July 6, embarking on a three-week immersive journey into the Chinese language and culture.

Welcomed by the Global Education Center at ECNU, the students quickly discovered what makes Shanghai unique and why the campus is a vibrant place to study.

In their very first Chinese class, any nervousness quickly melted away. Icebreaker games encouraged lively conversation and laughter, while teachers employed engaging methods that brought the language to life. The classroom buzzed with enthusiasm as students eagerly participated, spoke up, and began building connections with both peers and instructors.

Just two days later, the students were already putting their new skills to use. A visit to the Shanghai Museum offered a firsthand glimpse of China's rich cultural heritage. Afterwards, the group headed to the Raffles City, where they practiced their Chinese with shopkeepers. For many, this experience marked not only their first time in China but their first time abroad.

Organized by the China Institute in America and ECNU, the program aims to immerse students not only in language but in everyday Chinese life.

Liao Shenzhan, senior vice-president for education at the China Institute, leads the program from the US side and shared her reflections from day one:

Source: Official WeChat account of Global Education Center of ECNU at "ecnugec"