Editor’s Note:
In 2023, Fudan University initiated the HSK UPASS General Academic Ability Program, a one-year preparatory course tailored for international students, hosted by the International Cultural Exchange School (ICES). This comprehensive curriculum is crafted to offer training across five core subjects taught in Chinese high schools: Chinese, English, Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. Serving as a transitional academic stepping stone, this program equips students with the essential foundation needed to embark on their undergraduate journey in China.
Hailing from a Chinese family, Cem spent his high school years in Türkiye before matriculating as a freshman in Fudan’s School of Life Sciences.
“Thanks to my time as a preppy here, I discovered the appeal of so many different subjects.” Inspired by the supportive and nurturing environment at Fudan University, Cem has chosen to pursue his undergraduate studies here, opting out of acceptances from other esteemed Chinese institutions.
Unveiling New Horizons of Interests and Potential
“I knew I had made the right choice soon after I arrived, Cem reflected, characterizing Fudan as a beacon of “academic freedom”. He continued, “The university offers the freedom to explore, to experiment, and to learn from failures, all within an environment that respects your individual ideas and choices. The faculty here is eager to engage with students deeply, despite our limited experience,” he elaborated.
Cem was particularly struck by the prompt attention the school administration gave to students’ suggestions. Recalling an instance from the previous year, he said, “ICES invited all students to provide feedback on the preparatory program. There were requests for more flexibility in the curriculum and adjustments to the class schedule,” Cem recounted. “The administration made changes very quickly. It was heartening to see that the school genuinely valued our input and took our opinions seriously,” he added.
Academically, Cem found his preparatory year to be both enriching and well-balanced. “Fudan did a good job in tailoring the curriculum to the average ability of international students and doesn’t push us too hard.”
In Cem’s spare time, the exposure to the extensive academic resources available across various departments at Fudan has broadened his intellectual horizons and assisted him in identifying the discipline he wishes to pursue.
“I want to dive deeper into subjects like Physics, Math, and Artificial Intelligence, but I also keep my passions in Psychology and Neuroscience”. Cem was fascinated to find out that Fudan University’s esteemed reputation in life sciences is built on an interdisciplinary approach, encompassing a wide range of subjects. This field not only requires a solid grounding in Physics and Mathematics but also branches out into disciplines such as Psychology, Neuroscience, and Artificial Intelligence, reflecting the university’s commitment to integrating diverse areas of study.
Connecting with Peers in Fudan
“Socializing was once my biggest challenge. It worries me more than my study,” Cem confessed.
As an introvert by nature, Cem frequently struggled with social interactions and was plagued by anxiety when it came to starting conversations before his arrival at Fudan.
However, despite initially expecting cultural and national differences to pose significant barriers, Cem found them to be less daunting than he had anticipated at Fudan.
He found great satisfaction in using his mathematical acumen to assist his friends with challenging math problems. His math skills not only earned him recognition in the class but also became a bridge to connect with others. He engaged in and organized activities with his fellow international students, cultivating deep bonds with peers who had similar passions and interests.
“I feel my social skills have improved a lot. It’s now easier for me to connect with others emotionally.” To this day, Cem maintains close ties with the friends he made during the preparatory program.
Getting Ready for a Research Career
Although it is only his first year as an undergraduate student, Cem is already keen on engaging in scientific endeavors with the potential to create a meaningful impact on the world.
This year, he plans to join the Qi Ming Xing (Guiding Star) Program at Xide College, which aims to offer students with limited hands-on experience an introduction to research by working closely with mentors on specific topics. This initiative is designed to provide a structured platform for students to gain preliminary research exposure and to foster critical thinking skills under the guidance of experienced faculty.
Building on this foundation, Cem also intends to participate in Fudan’s Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (FDUROP) during his second year. Through FDUROP, he will have the opportunity to devise his own research topic and work collaboratively with peers who share his passion for scientific exploration.
“Practice is the key to mastery,” Cem said. By pursuing these opportunities, Cem is setting a clear path for himself to develop the skills and experience necessary to make a significant contribution to his chosen discipline.
Beyond research in his primary field, Cem is enthusiastic about interdisciplinary studies. He plans to diversify his knowledge by enrolling in courses provides by other academic departments in Fudan and better equip himself for future scholarly challenges. “I’d also recommend Fudan to my younger siblings—they’re sure to relish the learning experience here,” he added.
Now, as a proud alumnus of the preparatory program and a freshman in the university, Cem is dedicated to promoting Fudan’s preparatory program and assisting newcomers in acclimating to campus life.
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Presented by Fudan University Media Center
Writer: YANG Xinrui, WANG Jingyang
Editor: WANG Mengqi, LI Yijie
