The international freshmen enrolled in 2024 at the University of Michigan – Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI, JI hereafter) experienced an engaging start in September to their first semester on the SJTU Minhang campus, which was made possible through the dedicated efforts of JI faculty and staff.
According to Yu Zhang, manager of the JI International Student Recruitment and Service Office, a series of tailor-made activities were designed and implemented for the new cohort of international students. “Our efforts aim to help them adapt to college life quickly and smoothly. I also hope the students will get a better understanding of Chinese culture and build up awareness and competence in cross-cultural communication as members of the JI family,” she said.
Students attend a lecture on library resources.
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs David Hung talks to students during class meeting.
This year, 45 international students from 14 countries enrolled in JI’s undergraduate degree programs, beginning their studies in September. During their first week, they participated in orientation lectures covering topics such as international programs, laboratory safety, library guidelines, mental health, public security, and the honor code. Registered under Class 2411, the international freshmen held their first “ice-breaking” class meeting on September 14. Divided into six groups, the students were tasked with completing a Shanghai exploration project during the fall semester to better understand the city and the country. They also took part in a Mid-Autumn Festival event, which included a lecture on traditional Chinese culture and a mooncake-making session.
Students display their team artworks for the city exploration task.
Students learn to make mooncake during the Mid-Autumn Festival event.
“I’ve been so inspired by all my professors in the introductory classes. What makes me even more confident about having an amazing first semester is the student community. Everyone is so friendly, and there are so many interesting conversations to be had. I was pleasantly surprised by how tight-knit the JI community feels.” said Alexandre Beaudin, an 18-year-old student from Canada, while speaking of his new campus life.
His sentiments were echoed by Arsen Aghayan from Armenia: “The first week of classes was a mix of excitement and adaptation. Exploring the campus, attending lectures, and meeting new classmates created an energetic and motivational environment. The coursework feels more intense, but the professors are very passionate about their subjects, which makes the learning process enjoyable. It’s been an interesting start, and I’m looking forward to what’s next!”
Latest statistics showed JI has attracted degree-pursuing international students from over 30 countries since 2006. To date, more than 700 international students have studied at JI.
