Jiexin Liu

Learning, Culture and Friendship in Guangzhou

From 21 June to 6 July, I had the opportunity to participate in a two-week study tour in Guangzhou, organised through Bournemouth University and hosted by the International College of Guangzhou College of Commerce. It was a meaningful experience that combined cultural exchange, academic learning and practical business activities, allowing me to learn alongside students from different countries.

Throughout the programme, we took part in a wide range of activities, including Tai Chi, Chinese calligraphy, tea ceremony, AI learning, business negotiation, livestream e-commerce and group presentations. Among all the activities, the calligraphy class and the livestream e-commerce workshop were my favourites. The calligraphy class gave us the chance to experience a traditional part of Chinese culture, while the livestream workshop introduced us to one of China's most innovative business models through hands-on practice.

Outside the classroom, we visited organisations and cultural landmarks including CVTE, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area National Center for Nanoscience and Technology Innovation, Sino-Singapore Guangzhou Knowledge City, Guangdong Science Center and Guangdong Museum. These visits helped us better understand the rapid development of technology, innovation and industry in Guangzhou, while also allowing us to explore the city's rich history and culture.

As a Chinese student studying in the UK, this programme was especially meaningful. Returning to China with classmates from different countries allowed me to see familiar places from a new perspective. Watching my international friends experience Chinese culture for the first time, ask questions and show genuine curiosity reminded me how valuable cultural exchange can be. It also made me appreciate the opportunity to share my own culture while learning from others at the same time.

Beyond the academic activities, the friendships we built during these two weeks became one of the most valuable parts of the experience. From working together on presentations to exploring the city after class, we shared many memorable moments. The kindness and support from both local students and my classmates created an open and welcoming environment where everyone could learn from one another.

I would like to sincerely thank Bournemouth University for providing this wonderful opportunity through the Turing Scheme. My sincere thanks also go to Dr. Danny Liang for his guidance, encouragement and support throughout the programme. I am deeply grateful to the International College of Guangzhou College of Commerce, all the teachers, staff members and student volunteers for their warm hospitality and for organising such a well-planned and enjoyable programme. Finally, thank you to all my classmates for making this journey so memorable. I believe the friendships and experiences we shared will stay with us for a long time.

This study tour was much more than a two-week visit. It allowed me to strengthen my intercultural communication skills, broaden my international perspective and create lasting friendships with people from different backgrounds. It is an experience that I will always value, and I hope there will be more opportunities like this in the future.

This experience reminded me that international education is not only about learning in a classroom, but also about building understanding, friendship and connections across cultures. It is a journey that I will always remember.