From late February to mid-June, Education for a Global Citizen (EFGC) Chinese undergraduate students experienced life in the Midwest, learned presentation skills required in the American classroom, and gained a thorough understanding of American culture. Hailing primarily from Qingdao University in China’s coastal Shandong province, the students arrived in Minnesota ready to experience it all: American campus life, culture, daily norms—and snow.
Throughout their time on the University campus, program participants utilized theories and practical tips shared in their daily English language courses to enhance their real life English language proficiency levels. The program curriculum encouraged such growth by challenging students with role-play activities, individual performance evaluations, teamwork tasks, and written examinations. Students also conducted academic visits to the University of Minnesota-Duluth, St. Thomas University, St. Cloud State University, and Hamline College.
During the program, the students lived with American host families and enjoyed many fascinating (and ordinary!) activities with them, such as rock climbing, hiking, and trips out of state. Through these activities, a deep mutual understanding and strong emotional bond was established.
