This summer, 85 students from Shanghai University of Engineering Science (SUES) embarked on a global academic journey, fueled by curiosity about the world and passion for their fields of study. They left their youthful footprints across four continents—from the vibrant cities of the Americas and historic lanes of Europe to the sun-drenched coasts of Oceania and culturally rich landscapes of Asia. Their explorations took them to nearly 10 countries and regions, including the US, UK, Germany, Hungary, Australia, Singapore, Japan, and more.
This was far from a superficial sightseeing tour; it was a profound experience that wove together professional learning, industry practice, and cultural exploration. Through it, students broadened their horizons in a global classroom and honed practical skills via cross-cultural exchanges. The growth they achieved this summer was vivid and deeply transformative. Today, let’s turn our focus to Europe and dive into their summer study stories there!
01 Liverpool John Moores University (UK): Immersive Exploration Through Multidimensional Classes and Integration into Local Life
From July 13 to July 27, students studied at Liverpool John Moores University. Drawing on Liverpool’s unique identity as a "port city, art capital, and football hub", they embarked on a cross-border learning journey that combined in-depth knowledge with meaningful hands-on experiences.
The academic program featured three information-packed, engaging modules:
- Urban History: The most vivid module, in which professors guided students on walks along Albert Dock and visits to the International Slavery Museum. As they explored, they learned how Liverpool thrived through trade and flourished with culture—bringing the city’s history to life.
- Art: Blending theory and practice, this module included in-depth discussions on the social value of public art, plus hands-on workshops in printmaking and pottery.
- Football for Social Good: A thrilling module where students collaborated with the Liverpool Football Foundation to understand how "football drives positive life changes". They also visited Anfield Stadium to observe youth player training, gaining firsthand insight into football’s transformative power.
In daily life, once settled into student apartments, the students took the initiative to strike up casual conversations with international roommates, forged friendships, and independently managed transportation and meals. Through these small daily moments, they quietly honed their self-management skills and truly integrated into Liverpool’s cultural fabric.
Student Reflection
"I brought back far more than a certificate of completion and a project report. Most importantly, I returned as a new, more open-minded, and more determined self. I still feel fear at times, but now I have the courage to speak up in unfamiliar environments and not fear mistakes. I still enjoy thinking independently, but I’ve learned to collaborate with diverse people and turn differences into sparks of creativity. I now have a clearer vision of my career path—I want to be someone with business acumen and the ability to solve practical problems, while always staying compassionate, empathetic, and responsible."
—Student fom School of Management
02 RWTH Aachen University (Germany): Deep Integration of Digital Technology and Industry Practice
From July 14 to July 24, SUES students studied at RWTH Aachen University—one of Europe’s leading engineering universities. Over 10 days, they immersed themselves in a summer program focused on "Digitalization in Manufacturing", turning cutting-edge Industry 4.0 knowledge into tangible, hands-on experiences.
The program was both insightful and practical:
- How does AI support factory operations? Using real-world cases, professors demonstrated how AI can accurately identify product defects and optimize production workflows.
- Industrial robots are anything but "cold machines". From car welding to component handling, they act as "reliable partners" for workers, making the concept of "human-robot collaboration" intuitive to grasp.
- The most fascinating segment was the "digital twin" hands-on session. Under the guidance of professors, students used sensors to collect data and develop virtual models. They learned how factory production line optimization and equipment maintenance warnings can be "pre-simulated" on computers.
Outside the classroom, the experience was equally rewarding: Students exchanged stories with peers worldwide about industrial insights from their home countries, gaining firsthand experience of the rigor and openness of German classrooms. In their free time, they explored Aachen’s streets, spotting modern factories alongside historic buildings—a vivid example of how "traditional craftsmanship" and "new technology" blend seamlessly.
Student Reflection
"This summer program at RWTH Aachen University greatly expanded my knowledge, skills, and horizons. As an engineering student about to enter the workforce, I realized that manufacturing digitalization is not just an academic hotspot, but also a broad stage for future career development. This experience reinforced my determination to pursue further studies and made me recognize the importance of cross-cultural communication and international cooperation in advancing science and engineering. In the future, I hope to deepen my expertise through research and practice, contributing to industrial intelligence and sustainable social development."
—Student fom School of Mathematics and Statistics
03 University of Debrecen (Hungary): Dual Development Through English Proficiency and European Cultural Immersion
From July 21 to August 3, students journeyed to the University of Debrecen in Hungary for a study program centered on "academic empowerment and cultural immersion". At this long-standing institution, they achieved dual development in language skills and global perspective.
The two-week study experience was fulfilling and joyful:
- Small-group English Sessions: The atmosphere was relaxed and inclusive. During simulated academic presentations, students grew more confident in speaking up; during group project discussions, the classroom became a lively "cultural exchange hub".
- Campus Discoveries: Pleasant surprises awaited around every corner—classic stone pillars stood beside modern teaching buildings, as if engaging in a dialogue across time. The library’s extensive collection of international publications let students immerse themselves in a distinct academic ambiance.
Beyond campus learning, cultural excursions took them to diverse locations—from the culturally rich city of Debrecen, to the picturesque city of Budapest, and the elegant city of Vienna. These iconic European spots all bear the traces of their explorations.
Student Reflection
"The deepest insight from this study trip is that learning is about constantly expanding one’s boundaries. When communicating with students from different regions, I learned to express myself more flexibly in cross-cultural contexts. Sharing my hometown’s culture also made me realize that cross-cultural communication is not just about language exchange, but about cultural sharing and mutual learning. Going abroad allowed me to see the differences and commonalities between different educational systems, cultural traditions, and social values. In just two weeks, I gained more than improved language skills and knowledge—I developed a global mindset, an open and inclusive attitude, and the courage to continue exploring the unknown."
—Student fom School of Art and Design
04 University of York (UK): Dual Growth Through Tech Innovation Practice and Cultural Connection
From July 21 to August 8, students embarked on a three-week study program at the University of York. They integrated textbook knowledge, hands-on practice, and cultural immersion, making every moment count.
In study sessions:
- Lectures on medical device innovation and nuclear astrophysics broadened their intellectual horizons.
- In robot operation classes, students focused closely on robotic arms, tweaking parameters repeatedly. Starting from initial awkwardness, they gradually mastered the skill of precise object manipulation.
- Professors had a "knack" for simplifying complex concepts—using 3D models to explain challenging nuclear science topics, transforming obscure theories into accessible knowledge.
After class, students gained access to bioengineering labs and "dynamics labs", testing equipment and observing hands-on operations. They eventually shared their learning insights through a mix of text, images, and videos, closing the loop on a full cycle of "knowledge absorption → practical application → result output."
Student Reflections
"For me, this exchange was more like a mental enlightenment. It planted a seed of 'engineer' and 'creator' in my heart. It made me realize that the forefront of modern scientific research is no longer about working alone in a single field, but about collaborative integration. Future life scientists may not only need to hold pipettes, but also read code, understand sensor principles, and even sit at the same table with robotics experts to blueprint the future from the wonders of life."
—Student fom School of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering
"Looking back at these three weeks, the gains exceeded my expectations. It brought me not just more knowledge, but also an internal, profound transformation. I successfully went from a quiet listener to an active participant. I learned how to efficiently read English literature, build persuasive arguments, and appreciate and understand different academic perspectives. Critical thinking—questioning authority and asking 'why' about everything—has deeply influenced how I approach problems."
—Student fom School of Materials Science and Engineering
Final Thoughts
This European study trip is a shining memory in the students’ youth: delving into professional fields in laboratories, touching history in ancient alleys, and building friendships through exchanges. Those focused eyes, moments of amazement, and warm smiles are all precious marks of growth. Next, we will unlock more overseas study stories! May more SUES students carry this courage and step into the broader world!
