On the second day of the Year of the Horse, warmth and laughter filled Room 204, Building 7 on Shanghai University's Baoshan Campus. Vice President Yu Xuemei, along with Li Yingjie, Deputy Director of the International Office and Dean of the International Education College, gathered with a group of international students who stayed on campus during the Spring Festival holiday. Together, they shared heartfelt conversations and celebrated the New Year in a joyful and welcoming atmosphere.

 Year of the Horse Spring Festival Salon

Listening and Learning: Heartfelt Conversations with Students

Shortly after one in the afternoon, Vice President Yu Xuemei and her team arrived at the event space and joined the students in a warm, face-to-face conversation. Gathered closely together, she asked with genuine care: "How long have you been in Shanghai?" "Any challenges in your studies?" "Is there anything more you need in your daily life?" She listened attentively as students shared their experiences and offered suggestions on academic development, internship opportunities, and ways to foster greater interaction between Chinese and international students.

The conversation flowed as students eagerly shared their learning experiences and personal growth at Shanghai University. Gokusha Sahakova, an undergraduate from Turkmenistan, opened up about her journey of adjusting to life in China. She admitted that studying her major in Chinese was a significant challenge at first. But with the help of teachers and classmates, her language skills steadily improved, and she successfully completed her courses. Her advice to fellow international students? Make more Chinese friends. Vice President Yu listened attentively, encouraging her to keep that learning spirit alive. She assured the students that the university would continue to provide full support to its international community every step of the way.

PhD candidates Soudani from Kenya and Anna from Russia shared their progress in big data modeling research and the recognition they've gained through high-level academic exchanges. Master's students Farzad from Iran and Myroslava from Ukraine chatted about their experiences staying on campus during the Spring Festival, expressing gratitude for the many opportunities the university has created for international students to immerse themselves in Chinese festive traditions and connect deeply with local communities. Vice President Yu encouraged the students to pursue academic excellence with dedication while also exploring the world beyond campus. "Go out and see more," she said. "That's how you truly get to know China."

Vice President Yu Xuemei in Heartfelt Conversation with International Students 

 

Cultural Immersion, Lasting Impressions: The Warmth of Tradition Speaks Volumes 

Between conversations, the students dove into hands-on cultural experiences—trying their hand at traditional woodblock printing of New Year paintings and crafting Year of the Horse paper-cuts.

Li Meiqing, an undergraduate from Cambodia, demonstrated woodblock printing for her fellow students. With practiced moves—inking the block, laying down the paper, pressing gently—she revealed a striking image of a galloping horse. Laila, a PhD student from Pakistan, skillfully cut an intricate Chinese knot from red paper. Now celebrating her third Spring Festival in China, she shared how deeply she has come to love this joyful and peaceful holiday.

Vice President Yu and Dean Li joined the students, admiring their handiwork and trying their own hands at the crafts. They also presented each student with carefully prepared New Year gifts, adding a personal touch to the festive gathering.

 

Hands-on Fun: Trying Paper-Cutting and Woodblock Printing  

Building Bridges, Broadening Minds: Shanghai University's Commitment to Global Education

More than just a festive gathering, the Spring Festival Salon served as a meaningful bridge for connection—a space where heartfelt conversations flowed between the university and its international students. It stands as a reflection of Shanghai University's commitment to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for its global community.

In recent years, the university has steadily strengthened its support systems for international students, guided by an open-door philosophy. The goal is not only to help students thrive academically but also to nurture a deeper understanding and appreciation of China—shaping a new generation of globally minded graduates who carry with them both knowledge and cross-cultural friendship.

"Supporting our international students is a vital part of Shanghai University's global vision," said Vice President Yu Xuemei. "Our role goes beyond administration and services—it's about ensuring that every student who comes to us from afar feels the warmth of China and the care of our university community."

Looking ahead, the university will continue to deepen educational reforms for international students, create a more nurturing environment, and expand platforms for cross-cultural exchange. The goal is to provide every international student with rich opportunities to learn and grow—and in doing so, contribute to China's broader opening-up and the shared vision of a community with a common future for humanity.

Source: Shanghai University