Hosted by the ZJU-UIUC Institute (ZJUI)
Location: Zhejiang University-International Campus, Haining, China
Program Overview
The ZJU-UIUC Institute (ZJUI), a partnership between Zhejiang University (ZJU) and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), is a jointly operated engineering college situated on Zhejiang University International Campus in Haining City, Zhejiang Province, China. Renowned for fostering innovation and international collaboration, ZJUI serves as a vibrant hub for global engineering education and research.
The Global Classroom Program is a transformative two-week summer initiative hosted by ZJUI. This program offers UIUC students an unparalleled opportunity to engage in collaborative engineering projects, explore innovative solutions to real-world challenges, and immerse themselves in the dynamic cultural and academic environment of China.
The program is designed to:
1. Encourage Global Collaboration: Work closely with peers and faculty from ZJUI on interdisciplinary engineering projects.
2. Foster Innovation: Explore cutting-edge practices and technologies through workshops, design challenges, and research activities.
3. Provide Cultural Immersion: Experience China’s rich history, traditions, and modern advancements through cultural activities and guided excursions.
This program bridges academic collaboration between ZJU and UIUC students, fosters innovative thinking to address global engineering challenges, and cultivates leadership and teamwork in a multicultural context. By blending technical expertise with cultural exploration, the Global Classroom Program prepares participants to become globally minded engineers and innovators, ready to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.
Program Themes
1. Bridging Borders Through Engineering Innovation: Explore how engineering transcends cultural and geographical boundaries to solve global challenges.
2. Sustainability in a Global Context: Address critical sustainability issues such as green energy, environmental protection, and resilient infrastructure through interdisciplinary collaboration.
3. Smart Cities and Digital Transformation: Investigate the role of engineering in building smarter, more connected urban environments using cutting-edge technologies.
4. Global Challenges, Local Solutions: Collaborate on projects that apply engineering principles to address global issues with local cultural and contextual considerations.
5. Innovation Without Borders: Engage in interdisciplinary problem-solving with peers from diverse backgrounds, learning how to harness cultural differences for groundbreaking solutions.
6. The Intersection of Tradition and Technology: Experience how traditional Chinese cultural values and cutting-edge engineering practices coexist and inspire innovation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is open to all UIUC undergraduates who are current freshmen, sophomores, and juniors pursuing engineering or related disciplines. It is ideal for students who are passionate about:
1. International Collaboration: Working with peers from diverse backgrounds to solve global challenges.
2. Hands-On Projects: Engaging in practical, interdisciplinary engineering activities.
3. Cultural Exchange: Immersing yourself in a rich and dynamic cultural environment.
Whether you are driven by innovative problem-solving, global teamwork, or exploring new cultural perspectives, this program provides an excellent platform to enhance both your academic and personal growth. Students eager to tackle real-world engineering challenges in a global context are highly encouraged to apply.
Scholarship
ZJUI offers a scholarship to selected participants that covers nearly all program costs, ensuring financial accessibility. This includes:
1. Accommodation: Stay in comfortable and modern student housing on the ZJU International Campus.
2. Meals: Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) provided at campus dining facilities or during scheduled program activities.
3. Transportation: Local transportation for all program-related activities, including cultural excursions and field trips.
4. Program Costs: Full access to academic workshops, materials, and events organized as part of the program.
5. Cultural Activities: Entry fees for all planned cultural and recreational events.
6. Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is provided for the program duration, ensuring access to medical services if needed.
Note: The scholarship does not cover international airfare. Participants are responsible for arranging their flights to and from China.
Program Highlights
1. Academic Collaboration and Innovation
1) Work on interdisciplinary engineering projects addressing real-world global challenges.
2) Engage in faculty-led workshops that blend theoretical knowledge with practical application.
3) Participate in engineering design challenges alongside ZJU and UIUC students.
2. Cultural Immersion
1) Enjoy guided excursions to iconic destinations such as Hangzhou's West Lake, the Ancient Water Town of Wuzhen, and Shanghai's vibrant cityscape.
2) Participate in hands-on cultural workshops like Chinese calligraphy, tea ceremonies, and traditional martial arts demonstrations.
3) Experience authentic Chinese cuisine through group dining experiences and cooking classes.
3. Networking and Community
1) Build meaningful relationships with peers, professors, and industry leaders.
2) Attend social events, including welcome and farewell banquets, to celebrate collaboration and achievements.
4. Exploring ZJUI and Haining
1) Gain firsthand exposure to ZJU's state-of-the-art facilities, including engineering labs and maker spaces.
2) Explore the tranquil beauty of Haining, a city blending modernity with tradition.
Program Schedule
The Global Classroom Program will take place from June 1st to June 14th, offering two weeks of immersive learning, collaboration, and cultural exploration.
1. Arrival Date: Participants are expected to arrive on May 31st to settle in and prepare for the program activities.
2. Program Duration: The official program runs from June 1st to June 14th, featuring academic workshops, engineering projects, cultural experiences, and field trips.
Transportation and Logistics
1. Arrival and Departure: Participants will be provided with detailed travel instructions, including directions from major airports like Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport or Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Complimentary shuttle services will be arranged for group arrivals.
2. Local Transportation: The program includes private buses and shuttles for field trips and cultural activities, ensuring comfort and convenience.
3. Campus Facilities: The ZJU International Campus is fully equipped with modern amenities, including a gym, library, and student lounges.
Application Process
The application portal will be open from January 15th, 2025 to March 1st, 2025. Interested students must submit the following materials:
1. Completed Application Form: Ensure all required fields are filled accurately.
2. Personal Statement: A 500-word essay detailing your interest in the program, goals for participation, and how it aligns with your academic and personal aspirations.
3. University Transcripts: An official copy of your academic records to date.
Admission Notification: Applicants will be notified of their admission status by the end of March.
We encourage students to prepare their materials early and apply promptly to secure a spot in this transformative program!
Contact Information
For inquiries and further information, please reach out to:
ZJUI Global Classroom Program Team
Email: zipo@intl.zju.edu.cn
We invite you to join this exciting journey of academic exploration, cultural discovery, and global collaboration. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the Global Classroom Program.
