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.
First year in Shanghai
“China is such a fast growing country,” says Serafym, a computer science undergraduate from Ukraine. He initially arrived at Fudan University in late 2022 to study language. One year later, upon completion, he chose to join Fudan’s very first preppy course.
From language learning to pursuing passion in computer science at Fudan
International students dragon boat race in 2023
“Initially, I was indecisive about which city I should go to. But eventually, I settled in Shanghai because I see it as a cosmopolitan hub with abundant opportunities.” Upon his arrival at Fudan, Serafym had no prior exposure to the Chinese language. However, as the days unfolded, his journey of learning Mandarin transformed into a source of solace. This linguistic endeavor not only facilitated deeper connections with those around him but also significantly eased his adaptation to life in China.
Beyond just picking up the language, Serafym was really drawn to the scholarly environment at Fudan. “I have been fascinated by mathematics since my early childhood, and I had already set my sights on engineering degree programs even before my arrival.” He admitted that modules of Maths, Physics and Chemistry during the preppy course gave him more confidence in moving forward with his passion. “I feel that I’m doing the right things in the right place.”
Over the past two years, Serafym has been genuinely amazed by the strides made in cloud technology and artificial intelligence (AI) at Fudan University. His fascination with AI played a pivotal role in steering him towards computer science as his field of study among the myriad of engineering-related disciplines available. “Right now, we’re diving into mathematics, which lays the groundwork for our future studies in computer science. But I’m feeling pretty confident because I got a head start on mathematical analysis and linear algebra during the preparatory program.”
Lighting the way for those who follow
Shanghai Daily Global Gen-Zers
Serafym faced many challenges upon his arrival. According to him, besides assistance from the university staff, mutual assistance among international students plays a vital role. This June, Serafym took the initiative to create a WeChat group. Within this platform, he and other current students offer comprehensive guidance to new arrivals, covering every facet of life at Fudan University.
Now, a team of ten students, including many first-year students like himself, collaborate to manage the group. “Regardless of the cultural background or personal experiences that these new students bring with them, we are committed to offering them our support and assistance.”
Travelling in a Longjing tea village in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Provincie
Serafym believes that his time at Fudan is not merely about accumulating knowledge but about igniting his passion for learning. With ambitions in AI, he shared, “Each interaction with my classmates and professors has broadened my horizon and strengthened my connection with Fudan. I’m sure I can further my studies while enjoying my life here.”
(END)
Presented by Fudan University Media Center
Writer: YIN Zhenjie, WANG Jingyang
Editor: WANG Mengqi, LI Yijie
