This summer, BNBU students ventured far and wide to explore, learn, and grow. From east to west, from south to north, they embraced the world as their classroom.
Yao Yichen: My 40 days at UC Berkeley
To improve my English, broaden my horizons, and enhance my overall skills, I spent 40 days studying at UC Berkeley.
At first, I struggled with jet lag, a new campus, and an all-English environment. But gradually, I learned to adapt—finding order in the unknown and relying on myself. I took AI Leadership and Science and Engineering English. Though challenging, these courses gave me a new perspective: leadership is not only about charisma or management but also about foresight, teamwork, and innovation, especially in the age of AI.
My solo trip to Seattle and Washington was unforgettable. Planning routes, booking hotels, and exploring alone helped me conquer my inner fear. Independence, I realised, doesn’t mean loneliness—it means courage and freedom.
Looking back, this journey transformed me from nervous and uncertain to confident and resilient. Growth often hides in those “I thought I couldn’t do it” moments. My Berkeley journey was not only a valuable learning experience but also a profound test of independence, courage, and self-discovery.
Ji Zixuan: My story at Sungkyunkwan University
Inspired by Steve Jobs’ “dots theory,” I joined summer courses at Sungkyunkwan University, believing every step would someday connect.
In Advertising and Pop Culture, visiting Baskin Robbins Korea taught me that empowering local teams can be more effective than strict global control. Harvard Professor Martin Puchner’s Human Creativity in the Age of AI challenged us to debate freely without slides, sharpening my English and critical thinking. I also used AI tools to create prototypes, realising how vital tech skills are for media students.
Beyond classes, the friendships were priceless. I shared Chinese mobile payments with Mexican classmates, exchanged insights with French peers, and had late-night bus conversations with a student from Boston. At the closing ceremony, my Vlog—capturing these stories—won first prize and was screened before nearly a thousand people. Their laughter, tears, and applause showed me how storytelling can transcend language and culture.
This journey taught me that life need not be perfectly planned. Every step, choice, and encounter—big or small—counts. In time, the dots will connect in unexpected, meaningful ways.
Li Kexin: Philanthropy Study of Elders and Children in Shaoguan
The Philanthropy Study in Shaoguan gave me many “firsts”. We explored how the village of Xinlong implements “elderly-friendly” and “child-friendly” initiatives through hands-on activities. From visiting senior service centres and child-friendly spaces, to helping in community canteens, designing “spiritual classrooms” for the elderly, and playing outdoor games with children, every experience went beyond what textbooks could teach.
At first, interacting with elders felt unfamiliar, but once we listened, they eagerly shared their stories. The warm exchanges showed me that true care goes beyond material support — it’s about providing space for connection, confidence, and belonging.
This journey deepened my understanding of rural development and philanthropy. Sustainable change comes only through cooperation between government, NGOs, and villagers’ real needs. Stepping outside the classroom, I not only saw the countryside more clearly but also rediscovered myself, learning that real growth begins outside our comfort zones.
Zhu Yushu: Dream Coach Summer Programme
German philosopher Karl Jaspers once said, “Education is when one soul awakens another.” I experienced this during the Dream Coach Summer Programme. By working with frontline teachers, we helped spread a curriculum focused on whole-person development. Seeing teachers transform their teaching methods and bring more engaging lessons to children felt like planting seeds that are now quietly growing.
I also gained true friends among fellow volunteers. Despite the heat of July and classrooms without air-conditioning, everyone remained full of energy and dedication, preparing, teaching, and encouraging each other without complaint.
Looking back, from my nervous first interview to the excitement of teaching and the joy of teamwork, every step was meaningful. This summer has become an unforgettable memory — a time when education inspired not only children, but also me.
Bai Yaxuan: Silk Road Summer Programme
Setting foot in Northwest China felt like stepping into a dream. From the bustling streets of Xining to the sacred calm of Ta’er Monastery, each moment revealed a new layer of history and culture. Cycling by Qinghai Lake, watching the golden sunrise at Heima River, and camping in the desert under a sky full of stars were experiences I will never forget.
We shared hotpot around a bonfire, slid down sand dunes, and sang beneath the Milky Way. Each landscape — from emerald lakes and salt flats to Mogao Caves and snow-capped peaks — showcased the region’s breathtaking diversity.
Over fourteen days, we measured the land with our footsteps, strengthened friendships through laughter and mutual support, and embraced challenges with courage. The winds of the Northwest blew away fatigue and left behind only glowing memories, turning this journey into one of the brightest chapters of our youth.
These are just glimpses of the colourful journeys our students embarked on this summer. With fresh experiences in hand, they are ready to welcome the new semester ahead.
From MPRO
Reporter: Cecilia Yu
Cover: Ji Zixuan
Photos provided by the interviewees
