"It is a really amazing journey, and we not only learned lots of things, but also experienced the true life here in China. It's really unforgettable," said one student to our reporter.
Twenty students from the University of Seoul (UOS) in South Korea organized a trip to UIC from Dec. 29th ,2008 to Jan 18th, 2009. The trip focused on urban development in Zhuhai since most of the students majored in Urban Planning, Architecture, and Environmental studies. "We are interested in the development of urban areas in China and we want to explore this region," said another student.
UIC organized varies courses and activities for the students from UOS. Professors in UIC gave lectures about Ancient Chinese History, the Chinese Economy, Cultural Industry and Urban Development. They participated in Experiential Development Program (EDP) and Elderly Home Service Program organized by the Whole Person Education Office. They also made several urban trips to Shenzhen, Shantou, Zhongshan, Guangzhou, and Zhuhai in Guangzhou Province to explore the development of those cities.
On Jan 7th, Student reporters Candy and Grace from First Step In Four interviewed four of the students from UOS.
C: How do you like the courses here in UIC?
S: We learned a lot since the professors taught in English, and we could understand. The course level was very high and the professors were nice and profound.
C: What are the differences between UIC and UOS?
S: Actually, I envy a little bit the students here in UIC; you can take so many courses which are not related to your major. What's more, because you have Whole Person Education here, students can learn many new things like Art, Chinese Kung Fu, EDP, volunteer services and so on. We don't have such courses in UOS and we can only learn the courses related to our majors.
C: What is the most memorable activity you have joined?
S: I think it's the Elderly Home Services on Jan 1st. When we gave a small present to an old man, he cried and sang a beautiful traditional Chinese song to us. We were deeply moved. It was only a little contribution; but, for them, it means a lot!
C: How do you feel about UIC or Zhuhai?
S: Well, we do love the place. The campus is really beautiful. People are friendly here. It is amazing that we found out many students are very fond of Korean culture, like Tae Kwon Do and Korean language. We have lots of things to talk about! That's really good!
In the evenings, UIC students had small parties for the Korean visitors by playing some traditional Chinese instruments. They told us that they really enjoyed them.
It was learned that a new group of students from the College of St. Scholastica in MN, USA would join these students from UOS in Jan. 2009 here at UIC.
Interview: Candy Chou Grace Hu
Writer : Candy Chou
