On March 20th, the School of Computer Science and Technology at HUST held its first monthly meeting and exchange session of the spring semester in Meeting Room 433 of No. 1 South Building. This event focused on the theme of “Semester Planning + Academic Exchange + Cultural Sharing,” providing a valuable platform for international undergraduate and graduate students to connect and learn. It also marked the launch of this semester’s growth support program.
The event commenced with Mr. Shi Zheng, the Foreign Affairs Officer of the School, extending warm wishes to international students for the new semester and outlining key guidelines for the term. He encouraged graduate students to engage actively with their advisors and participate in regular academic discussions in the lab to enhance their research outcomes. For undergraduate students, he advised seeking insights from graduating seniors to facilitate a smoother integration into campus life. Furthermore, he underscored the importance of adhering to safety regulations, including legal compliance, travel safety, and awareness of common issues related to fraud prevention.
Subsequently, four international students from various countries shared their experiences, academic insights, and cultural perspectives. Kyi Lin Khant, a master’s student from Myanmar, delivered a presentation titled “My Experience,” which vividly highlighted Myanmar’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. He emphasized the country’s distinction as the “Land of Golden Pagodas,” showcasing ancient temples in Bagan, the scenic Inle Lake, and the vibrant cityscape of Yangon. Meanwhile, he discussed his journey in computer science, exploring integrating traditional culture with modern technology and potential career paths.
Leonard Umal, a doctoral student from Malawi, introduced his country’s history and culture, noting Malawi’s independence in 1964 and its diverse ethnic and religious landscape, with the Chewa being the largest ethnic group and Christianity the main religion. He shared an interesting geographical fact: Lake Malawi is called the “Calendar Lake” because its length is close to the number of days in a year and its width to the number of weeks. Furthermore, he explored the future of computer science in Malawi and offered his insights into the field, emphasizing the potential for growth and innovation.
Chong Jie Huang from Malaysia passionately showcased his homeland’s diverse charm through stunning photographs. He provided an immersive experience of Malaysia’s cultural tapestry, featuring unique traditional festivals, colorful fusion architecture, and the aromatic street foods like nasi lemak and satay. His vivid storytelling painted a picture of Islamic mosques and Chinese shophouses intertwined in light and shadow, as well as scenes of daily life where Malays, Chinese, and Indians coexist. This cultural journey transported attendees to the lively streets of Kuala Lumpur, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the beauty of “Asia’s cultural crossroads.”
Nick from Georgia openly shared his study tips, discussing practical learning methods from depth and breadth perspectives. He emphasized the importance of attendance in class, viewing punctuality as an effective way to stay motivated. He also advised students to seek help from classmates and communicate more with faculties when facing difficulties. If course content is not understood immediately, he suggested gathering additional study materials to reinforce learning. Nick’s insights provided actionable strategies to enhance study efficiency.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Shi Zheng said, “We are more the same than different,” highlighting the significance of cultural commonality and diversity. He pointed out the many similarities across countries in emotional experiences, such as celebrations and family reunions. Expressing gratitude for the students’ valuable contributions, he noted that the event significantly fostered mutual understanding within the international student community. This meeting not only provided a platform for students to showcase their talents and share their learning experiences but also facilitated the integration and development of diverse cultures within the School. Looking ahead, he encouraged students to collaborate and strive for excellence, creating a remarkable chapter in their academic journey at HUST CS.
