Ciao! Italian Students Explore Wenzhou-Kean University for New Learning Experiences
On March 27, 22 Italian high school students and teachers arrived at Wenzhou-Kean University for a six-day visit. The group, from the “Francesco Redi” Science and Language high school in Arezzo, Italy, specializes in balancing education in science, humanities and languages. It’s also one of the first schools in Italy to offer Chinese language courses.
During their visit, the Italian students had the opportunity to experience the international education of the China-U.S. cooperative university while also immersing themselves in Chinese culture by visiting historical sites and touring local enterprises to experience the vibrant energy of Wenzhou’s culture and private economy.
Dr. Yan Xiaopeng, Deputy Secretary of CPC Committee at WKU
At the welcome ceremony, Dr. Yan Xiaopeng, Deputy Secretary of CPC Committee at Wenzhou-Kean University, shared his personal and unforgettable connection to Arezzo, Italy. He highlighted the university’s unique role in global education, noting that Wenzhou-Kean University stands as a symbol of China-U.S. academic cooperation. “Today, you greet Wenzhou-Kean University as a place for a study tour, but tomorrow, you may embrace it as your alma mater!” He said, expressing hope that these students would one day begin their journeys as “world citizens” at WKU.
Ms. Jin Chun, Director of the Office of Enrollment, Employment, and Alumni of the university also welcomed the visitors and introduced the university’s international admission policy. She encouraged the students to consider WKU and extended a warm invitation to join the university in the coming years.
Dr. Maurizio Vrenna, an Italian professor of Industrial Design
On the morning of March 28, the Italian students had the chance to experience international university classes. Dr. Maurizio Vrenna, an Italian professor of Industrial Design, sharing his knowledge on design education, research, and communication, while also discussing innovative ideas in the design field. "Design is never absent from life. I hope you can come to China more often to discover different possibilities in life," he shared.
After the lesson, he spoke with the students in Italian, creating a sense of connection and making them feel more at home at WKU. Aurora Pia, one of the Italian students, reflected on the class, saying, “The professor’s explanation made me realize that design is not only about the use and understanding of aesthetics, but it also provides solutions when facing challenges.”
"This is my first time in Wenzhou, China. It is very different from Italy, especially the courses on Chinese traditional culture, which left a deep impression on me," said Italian student Alice Tenti after the Chinese culture class.
Dr. Jungbin Kim, Assitant Professor of Environmental Science Department at WKU, also addressed the students and organized class discussion themed on "Responsibility for Climate Change and Global Environmental Issues."
Silvia, the leader of the study group, shared, "This trip not only broadened the horizons of Italian students but also built a bridge of friendship between Chinese and Italian youth. I hope there will be more such exchange opportunities in the future."
During the six-day stint, the group paid visits to Wenzhou Foreign Language High School, Wenzhou Yilikang Biological, and Qiaoton Group. They also explored cultural landmarks including the Wenzhou Planning Exhibition Hall and Wuma Historical Street.
Translator: Yexi Yang, Siyuan Zheng
Proofreader: Amira Cabellero
