International University Experience Summer School

This program aimed to improve undergraduate students' international competence at China Agricultural University based on the implementation concepts of interdisciplinary cooperation, cross-geographical practice and cross-cultural exchange. Over five days, students had the opportunity to study academic and student life at UNNC, which provides a unique teaching model in China.

In the first four days, students participated in the following courses:

• Morning: An intensive academic English course to enhance their reading, writing, listening, speaking skills and presentations.
• Afternoon: Interactive sessions in their respective fields, promoting innovation, practical skills, and multidisciplinary collaboration for academic progress and future careers.
• On the fifth day: They enjoyed off-campus activities, including company visits and cultural experiences.

This program was a part of China Agricultural University's program to enhance undergraduate international competence. It was a collaborative effort with the College of Engineering and the University of Nottingham Ningbo China, initially launched in 2022. The university sponsors selected students' training fees, including accommodations and meals at the UNNC (Students only need to cover their round-trip travel expenses and insurance).

• English was the primary language for instruction and communication.
• The program was open to 20 undergraduates.

The 2023 Undergraduate International University Experience Summer School, co-organized by Shandong University's School of Energy and Power Engineering and the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), officially began on 17 July to broaden undergraduates' knowledge of their field and broaden their international perspectives. Tao WU, Vice President and Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering at the UNNC attended the opening ceremony, as did Xueliang YUAN, Associate Dean of the School of Energy and Power Engineering at Shandong University, faculty representatives Zhanlong SONG and Yingping PANG, and teachers from the UNNC. Associate Professor Mengxia XU of the UNNC Faculty of Science and Engineering hosted the ceremony.

Following the opening ceremony, the first day of classes began as planned. The curriculum included three sessions: 'Listening and Speaking in Academic Contexts,' 'Biomass Fuels,' and 'Phase-Change Energy Storage Technology Based on Microfluidics.' These courses were led by esteemed faculty members from the University of Nottingham Ningbo China, and their expertise and engaging teaching methods captured students' attention, making for active participation and meaningful learning experiences.

"The UNNC's immersive British-style education allowed me to experience genuine student life abroad. Every instructor was exceptionally dedicated and responsible. Their patience and genuine concern for students' understanding of teaching content and objectives were palpable. They diligently cultivated a relaxed learning atmosphere, nurturing students' enthusiasm and creativity, and encouraged us to think critically, participate actively, and solve problems proactively. Despite the initial adjustment period to an all-English academic environment, the guidance and support of our teachers helped me swiftly adapt and integrate."

- Jialing Chen, School of Pharmacy

"Beyond academics, the summer school presented us with a diverse array of experiences. Activities such as frisbee and yoga, both novel to me, significantly contributed to our personal growth. Through frisbee, I grasped the significance of teamwork, while yoga enhanced my ability to maintain a balance between body and mind, providing relief from stress. These experiences not only benefited our physical well-being but also fostered stronger bonds among classmates, leading to enduring friendships."

While touring the museum, the descriptions vividly portrayed the upheavals and struggles of the past. It prompted me to deeply reflect on the valuable cultural heritage left behind by our predecessors, constructed from their lives. Words fail to express the emotions I felt at that moment – a blend of sorrow and nostalgia, admiration, and reverence. Exploring Tianyi Square and art exhibitions further immersed me in the rich cultural heritage of Ningbo, a city with a profound history. While contemplating travels to other provinces during holidays, I had never truly explored the city of my upbringing. Learning about the traditions and developments of this culture has deepened my emotional connection to my hometown."

- Nining Yang, First Clinical Medical College

"Life's growth demands continuous learning and communication. It necessitates breaking free from preconceived notions and forging new concepts. Nothing beats firsthand experience over mere hearsay – a universal truth. During this time, I gained insights into foreign teaching methods, acquired essential skills in literature analysis, and picked up strategies for crafting effective presentations. I learned the art of precision in word choice and sentence construction. A complete presentation necessitates the full collaboration of the entire team, not mere data accumulation. My heartfelt gratitude goes to the school for granting me the opportunity to partake in this educational journey. It was indeed my first time participating in such an activity, something I had heard of but never experienced. This study tour facilitated my interaction with students from diverse departments, each one possessing unique strengths. Let us unite and strive for continual improvement and unwavering progress!"

- Wenhao Su, School of Nursing