The orientation program begins in Hangzhou before the regular semester begins. Students learn about Chinese customs, values and history through a series of presentations, discussions and excursions. Practical skills (shopping, using public transportatin, banking) are also addressed in the initial orientation. The orientation continues throughout the semester through the China seminar and includes excursions both within Hangzhou and to other important sites.
The initial orientation in Hangzhou also includes activities with the Central College Abroad students and their Chinese “pengyou,” meaning friend. This pengyou is a native Chinese Zhejiang University English student who has volunteered to help with the cultural transition and looks forward to the opportunity to speak English with a fellow student. Both students benefit from the cultural and linguistic exchange which begins by email before the start of the program and is developed in the first days of orientation.
Cultural Activities and Excursions
Cultural activities and excursions are an integral part of the program and are included in the program fee. Specific activities are tailored each year to take advantage of special occasions or events, but typically include concert, theater and museum visits, acrobatics performances, as well as excursions to points of interest in Hangzhou and surrounding towns. In addition, excursions include a three-day visit to Shanghai, a five-day trip to Beijing, and the Great Wall.
