US students learn dragon dancing at Nanjing Agricultural University. [Photo/chinanews.com]

From Aug 2 to 9, a delegation of 90 students and faculty from eight of the world's top universities, including Duke University, Brigham Young University, and Columbia University, visited Jiangsu province for a week-long cultural and educational exchange.

The group participated in a series of activities in Suzhou, Wuxi, and Nanjing and engaged in face-to-face discussions on various topics. These exchanges provided a platform for sharing experiences and perspectives, discussing opportunities and challenges, and enhancing mutual understanding of each other's societies and cultures.

A student majoring in electrical and computer engineering and physics at Duke University expressed his excitement after visiting a science and technology innovation center at Yangcheng Lake in Suzhou. "Jiangsu's achievements in technological innovation are truly impressive, and this place is full of possibilities. Before attending this exchange camp, I never considered pursuing a career in China, but this experience has changed my mind. I hope to have the opportunity to study and work here in the future, and to collaborate with Chinese partners."

During the visit, the US students toured several museums in Jiangsu, including the Kunshan Opera Museum, the Suzhou Museum, and the Oriental Metropolitan Museum, immersing themselves in the richness of Chinese traditional culture.

The exchange camp also included visits to ancient historical districts in Nanjing, where participants learned about the local government's efforts to preserve ancient cities and renew urban areas. Additionally, visits to Nanjing Agricultural University and Nanjing Normal University provided the delegation with a firsthand look at the latest achievements of Chinese higher education institutions.

Reflecting on the experience, another Duke University student remarked, "At the exchange camp, I engaged with Chinese students and students from Europe. These interactions will help us collectively address global challenges in the future."