The new cohort of international students from the University of Michigan – Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI, JI hereafter) headed to Shanghai’s suburban Chongming Island on October 13 for a day of rural research and hands-on labor experience at Chunfeng Village, located at the mouth of the Yangtze River.
As the third-largest island in China, Chongming plays a key role in Shanghai’s green development initiatives, offering a blend of rural charm and modern ecological practices. During the trip, students participated in various traditional agricultural activities, including digging for sweet potatoes, fishing, and learning how to make dumplings.
The event was part of JI’s broader effort to integrate experiential learning into the student experience. This year, 45 international students from 14 countries began their studies at JI, marking the start of their academic journey on the SJTU Minhang campus. By immersing themselves in rural life outside the classroom, the students gained firsthand knowledge of China’s modern rural development while building cross-cultural communication and teamwork skills.
JI students experience catching fish in the pond.
JI students dig sweet potatoes on the farmland.
JI students play a local game on the grass.
JI students learn to make dumplings.
As part of their orientation, which began in September, the international freshmen also participated in a variety of activities, including lectures on international programs, laboratory safety, and the university’s honor code. Registered under Class 2411, they held an “ice-breaking” class meeting and took part in a Mid-Autumn Festival celebration featuring a lecture on traditional Chinese culture and a mooncake-making session.
Since its establishment, JI has attracted students from over 30 countries, welcoming more than 700 international students to date. The institute’s strong focus on intercultural exchange and innovative education has made it a popular choice for students worldwide.
