The second cohort of Education for a Global Citizen (EFGC) Chinese undergraduate students arrived in early September 2014 for a four-month study abroad experience at the University of Minnesota. Provided by the China Center’s Mingda Institute for Leadership Training, the program introduces participants to presentation skills required in the American classroom, academic English writing styles, and American history, society, and culture. Participating students are from Qingdao University, Sichuan University, and Qufu Normal University.
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 and Macalester College.
During the program, half of 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. Other participating students experienced university campus life by living in on-campus apartments.
