Tianjin University of Technology (TUT) and TRU have been longtime partners for nearly two decades, particularly in the business departments. The partnership allows TRU and TUT students to graduate with degrees from both universities and to study in either country while enrolled in the program.
In February, students in TUT’s business program, accompanied by a professor and a chaperon, toured around Victoria and Vancouver before making their final stop in Kamloops at Thompson Rivers University.
The group of 11 students, led by Karen Kan, learned about Canadian culture, tried Canadian activities and even attended a Kamloops Storm hockey game.
“I think ice hockey is very interesting,” said Xiaoming Jiang, a student studying the business program at TUT. “I haven’t seen ice hockey before, so this was my first time watching it.”
One student in particular, having thought Canada was constantly cold, was taken by surprise upon learning Kamloops’ climate. Of course, Kamloops, being one of the warmest cities in the country, threw them completely off guard.
“I like the people and the culture and the environment,” TUT participant Jinyao Zhang said. “I used to think that Canada was very cold, but no, it’s very warm in both Vancouver [and] in Kamloops. I like Canada very much.”
Aside from learning about Canadian cultural experiences, such as attending one’s first hockey game, the TUT students also witnessed how different the education system in the West is, with at least one student expressing appreciation for the learning environment at TRU.
“During my two-week study in Canada, I found that both Chinese and Canadian education values independent thinking and teamwork,” said TUT student Wangman Lin. Lin noted the similarities between Canadian and Chinese institutions, specifically that both aim to push students beyond what they do in the classroom, even though the two countries have different approaches to teaching.
Yuanyuan Zhao, another TUT participant studying business, noted the biggest difference for her was how the Chinese and Canadian classrooms operate.
“In China, teachers always give us guidance,” Zhao said. “But in Canada, the class is open and free. Students can always talk and discuss.”
Going to another country to study is never easy, especially given the language and cultural differences one may not be used to.
When asked about her experience, Wenxin Xu was rather excited to talk about it.
“This experience is very valuable for me,” Xu said. “This is my first time in Canada. I think this activity gave me a deeper understanding of business administration.”
What all students collectively agreed on was how stunning Canada’s scenery was and how polite the people were.
“The scenery was very beautiful,” Xu said. “The people are very friendly.”
“This experience was unforgettable for me,” Shuwen Wang said. “We are so glad to come here [Canada] to study. I think this project will only be better and better.”
Overall, the experience for students will be remembered for years to come.