The International College hosted on December 10, 2021 an event called Wow, China “My Favorite Chinese Song" Sharing Session in order to enrich the campus life of international students, helping them have a deeper understanding of China, feel China, and create a good environment for learning and speaking Chinese well. Twenty-seven Chinese and foreign students from 12 countries participated in this event, which was hosted by Kut, a 2019 undergraduate majoring in Mining Engineering.
Everyone came forward to contribute at the start of the celebration; Liberian student Batuan brought "Still Missing You," Indonesian student Rui Yan brought "Little Lucky," and Comorian student Ma Ben brought "In the Lights", which created a really pleasant mood.
Following the performance, the students talked about their personal experience with the song. When asked why he chose this song, Ma Ben said, "Because I adore China! I've been in Xuzhou for six years. I've seen too much progress and change in Xuzhou throughout this time. In the process, I'm also maturing."
This sharing session was alternated with a short game of "Drumming and Passing Flowers" to allow more students to join, and the students who received the balloons shared a song they enjoyed. All of the members were able to engage in the mini-games, and the atmosphere was both tight and cheerful.
"This is the first Chinese song I learned in China," Ma Ke explained, "and exactly like the lyrics, 'Because I’m happy to meet you, leaving footprints is wonderful,' I want to leave my tracks all over China." Warin, a Lao student, sang the song "Mouse Loves Rice" in a clear voice, praising pure and splendid love.
The students commented after the event, "This type of activity is fascinating. Next time, I will definitely invite my friends to join in the series of activities.This song-sharing session has provided an opportunity for international students to learn Chinese and perform well in Chinese singing.
This has created a cultural bridge between Chinese and international students. The International College will continue to launch the Wow-China series of programs in the future, with the goal of infusing Chinese language and culture into the growth of international students.
