Memorable Summer in Hunan (China) for Van Lang University Students

In July 2024, a delegation of Van Lang University students from the Oriental Studies major (Chinese Studies) and the Chinese Language major embarked on a 20-day experiential learning trip to Central South University in Hunan (China).

From July 7th to July 22nd, 2024, fourteen students from the Oriental Studies major (Chinese Studies) and the Chinese Language major of Van Lang University enjoyed an unforgettable summer at Central South University in Hunan Province, China.

The 2024 International Student Summer Camp is a cultural and academic exchange program organized by Central South University, attracting students from various countries worldwide. VLU students have received full coverage for tuition, housing, transportation, and scheduled sightseeing due to their language proficiency.

No longer confined to theoretical knowledge, these students are now immersed in the unique Chinese culture through interactive activities with international friends. Under the guidance of Dr. Pham Dinh Tien, Head of the Chinese Studies department of the Oriental Studies major, and Dr. Ho Dac Quoc Anh, a lecturer of the Chinese Language major, along with and lecturers and students of Central South University, VLU students participated in meaningful activities: visiting historical and cultural sites in Hunan Province, attending specialized classes on Chinese language, culture, economy, and society led by Central South University professors, engaging in traditional crafts and cooking activities to gain deeper insights into Chinese culture, and meeting and interacting with international peers at the Summer Camp.

The Vietnamese delegation representative, Thi Thi Tuyet Trinh, a student of Course 27 in the Chinese Language, expressed her honor and pride in participating in the meaningful 2024 International Student Summer Camp at Central South University. Tuyet Trinh stated, “This is a precious opportunity for us to learn knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and people. I believe the experiences here will help me and my peers grow, and become more confident in our academic journey and personal development.”

Throughout the almost two-week summer camp, the students engaged in numerous unique Chinese cultural activities in addition to language instruction. The students were able to hand-wrap Jiaozi dumplings, make Chinese lanterns, experience wearing Chinese clothing, participate in a Chinese tea ceremony, and paint Peking opera masks.

The student group not only participated in academic and cultural events but also got the chance to tour well-known locations in Hunan. The students had the opportunity to visit the Yuelu Library, which is the oldest library in China, tour the gorgeous Juzi Island, and take in the historical and spiritual beauty of the Huo Gong Dian Temple. They also got to see China's national treasure, the enormous panda. These encounters not only increased their understanding of history and culture but also assisted them in unwinding following long study sessions.

For students in the major Foreign Languages - Humanities and Social Sciences, the opportunity to experience the country they are studying and learning about will bring them many sources of inspiration. Short-term exchange semesters and summer camps with international friends will help students improve their foreign language skills, engage in cultural exchanges, acquire academic knowledge, and build their character and self-confidence. With the university's extensive network of global educational partnerships, the school will continue to provide students with high-quality study abroad and international exchange opportunities in the future. This is also one of the attractive highlights of the Foreign Languages - Humanities and Social Sciences major at Van Lang University.

News and images: The VLU lecturers and students participated in the 2024 International Student Summer Camp