September marks a season of new beginnings for many - the start of a fresh semester, the unfolding of exciting opportunities, and for some, an adventurous journey to an exotic city. This year at UIC is no exception.
A new batch of international, exchange-in students and students of the Extended Study Programme from across the globe have come to UIC, including countries such as France, Germany, Italy, and Singapore. International interns from Norway and Ireland also arrived here to explore their career paths.
UIC held a welcome banquet on 5 September to greet the new arrivals, with UIC's senior management and staff attendance. UIC President Prof Chen Zhi inspired the guests during the banquet to explore the unknown, face challenges, and create memories at UIC while utilising the strategic location for academic resources and opportunities in the Greater Bay Area.
Prof Chen Zhi addresses the students and interns at the beginning of the dinner
Being in a new environment could bring new experiences and stimulate new thoughts, and five students are invited to share their stories.
Passions fuel international studies at UIC
Enzo Dantez from Indonesia is a first-year student at UIC. Growing up in an intercultural family, Enzo has immersed his taste buds in various cuisines from different countries, generating his great love for food.
"Food is a celebration of culture, creativity, and connection," he said.
When coming to his university study, UIC's well-equipped research environment and curriculum setting of the Food Science and Technology Programme grabbed his attention. He finally confirmed his choice and was ready for a new life here.
Though living far away from home would not be easy, Alesia Tykhonova, a UIC's third-year student from Ukraine, advised the new students to carry on during the adjustment period. "After that, you will be thankful to UIC for all the opportunities and all the friends you might have.
Opportunities stimulate international exchange at UIC
After completing her internship in a global car brand, Lara Beharovic from Stuttgart, a German city renowned for cars, decided to come to China during her last semester of exchange studies at university. "The team next to me (during my internship) was responsive to the teams in China," she said. "Therefore, I think I will have more opportunities in the future if I know China better."
She said that thanks to UIC's English-speaking environment, excellent location as well as support from her parents, she adapted well to her new life.
Life experiences enriched through ESP
This year, the campus also welcomes a group of students from the Extended Study Programme (ESP). ESP is a joint initiative by HKBU and UIC, designed to provide expanded learning experiences for undergraduates at both institutions.
Bianca Nadine Remot Adzuara, an international student from the Philippines studying at HKBU, will spend one semester at UIC as part of this programme. Bianca said that UIC's English environment removed the language barriers and allowed her to fully engage her subjects of interest.
She said her initial academic experience at UIC has been very pleasant. "It's just so fun here. I'm already so amused by all the energy professors are giving, and all of the curiosity from the other local students!"
Overseas interns are back
UIC continues to be home for overseas graduates for a one-year internship programme this year. Ilwad Ahmed, who recently graduated from Queen Mary University of London, is one such representative. With a bachelor's degree in Political Science and extensive experience studying and working abroad, she once served as the Global Opportunities Ambassador at Queen Mary University of London, providing advice to students intending to study abroad.
Now armed with her past experiences, Ilwad has joined the Department of Social Sciences at UIC for an internship in Globalisation and Development Programme. Her responsibilities include enhancing students' learning experiences and providing post-graduation planning advice, among other tasks.
Simultaneously, Ilwad will explore her academic interests in preparation for future development. "I am very grateful for the opportunity to work here with such excellent talents and personally experience China's rich culture," she expressed. Ilwad will meet students frequently to better assist them. "So I hope I can learn more Mandarin," she said.
By offering a vibrant and diverse environment that attracts students from around the globe, UIC provides an enriching platform for all. UIC will continue to enhance global communication and cultivate internationally well-rounded talents.
From MPRO
Reporter: Cecilia Yu
Photographer: Season Li, Cecilia Yu, Koga Song
Editor: Deen He
