From July 19 to early August 2026, a group of ten students from the School of International Education at Shanghai Zhongqiao Polytechnic University (SZPU) completed a transformative two-week summer study abroad program at the University of South Wales (USW) in the United Kingdom. Designed to foster global perspectives, cross-cultural competence, and practical professional skills, the program combined intensive academic training, hands-on engineering and media workshops, cultural excursions, and a capstone poster showcase.
Immersive Academics and Hands-On Professional Training
Residing at USW’s Snowdon Student Apartments on the Treforest Campus, students began their journey at the USW Centre for International English (CIE). Through interactive, small-group seminars focusing on academic and general English, faculty encouraged students to embrace a Think in English mindset, breaking away from direct translation and building confidence in authentic academic discussion.
The academic agenda extended beyond language study into hands-on technical immersion across USW’s specialized campuses:
- Engineering and Aerospace Innovation: Under the guidance of Dr. Blessing Adeleke, students explored USW’s aerospace, mechanical, and civil engineering laboratories. Highlights included stepping into a model aircraft cabin with industrial wiring, operating a flight simulator from the captain’s seat, and examining precision civil engineering testing equipment.
- Creative Media Production: At USW’s Cardiff Campus—located in the heart of Wales' creative sector near BBC Wales and Pinewood Studios—technical lecturer Geraint Thomas led a full-cycle film production workshop. Students participated directly in green-screen filming, keying, visual compositing, color grading, and special effects.
- Interdisciplinary & Cross-Cultural Dialogues: Partnering with international nursing students, Shanghai Zhongqiao Polytechnic University participants engaged in round-table debates on AI and the Transforming Business Environment, facilitated by lecturer Liam Newton using interactive prompts to encourage critical cross-cultural communication.
Cultural Discovery Across the UK
Complementing their classroom experience, students embarked on curated cultural journeys across Wales and England to broaden their historical and social understanding:
- Wales & Local Community Life: Students explored Cardiff’s historical landmarks, including Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Bay, the National Museum, and the Wales Millennium Centre. In their daily routine, students integrated into local life in Pontypridd, experiencing authentic Welsh community culture.
- Historic Academic & Cultural Hubs: The group visited Oxford University (exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Christ Church College, and the Bridge of Sighs), the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath (visiting the Roman Baths and Royal Crescent), and iconic London landmarks, including the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Greenwich Observatory.
Capstone Showcase and Educational Impact
The program concluded with an academic poster presentation. Student groups conducted independent research and presented bilingual posters on topics such as comparative teaching methodologies between China and the UK, sustainable community models, British cultural traditions, and practical academic English skills.
During the closing ceremony, students delivered full-English presentations and engaged in Q&A sessions with USW faculty. USW project leaders commended the students for their growth, self-reliance, and global awareness. The completion of this study abroad program marks another successful step in Shanghai Zhongqiao Polytechnic University’s commitment to expanding international education, cultivating globally competent talents, and deepening international academic partnerships.
