As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, the traditional Chinese festival—Spring Festival is approaching, and the streets and alleys are filled with the festive atmosphere. In order to allow international students on campus to fully experience the joy of Chinese New Year and the warmth of Dalian Maritime Uiversity(DMU) family, on the morning of January 26th, the Secretary of the Party Committee of DMU, Xu Minqiang, and the President of DMU, Shan Hongjun, visited the International Students’ Education Center(ISEC) to see international students on campus, and send New Year greetings and blessings to the students.
Early on the morning of Jan. 26th, the Tea House on the third floor of ISEC was decorated with a particularly warm festival atmosphere. The red Fu characters and couplets, festival music, and sweet snacks and fruits deeply immersed international students in the New Year flavor. 31 international students from 9 countries including Pakistan, Tanzania, Palestine, Togo, Gambia, Jamaica, Bangladesh, Turkmenistan, and Mali arrived early in the classroom to chat with teachers about the Chinese New Year and share the freshness and joy of celebrating the festival at DMU.
The arrival of the Secretary of the Party Committee of DMU, Xu Minqiang, and the President of DMU, Shan Hongjun, surprised the students, and enthusiastic applause and cheers were heard on site. The school leaders walked up to the students and asked if they had adapted to life at DMU, "Are your studies going smoothly?" "Have you gotten used to the food?" "May you have a happy New Year at DMU!" The greetings and blessings made the students feel warm and encouraged, and all the gratitude and friendship were filled with everyone's happy smiles.
Ms. Zhang Mo, the Chinese teacher of ISEC, also narrated the story of the Chinese New Year through PPT and physical objects, introducing a series of festive activities and their profound meanings. Through the exchanges and interactions between teachers and students, students gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Chinese New Year, and the charm of different cultures was further exchanged and integrated.
Hot and steaming dumplings were served, each one as cute and tempting as ingots. Everyone choosed different fillings according to their own taste. The dumplings not only brought deliciousness and enthusiasm, but also family affection and deep blessings. At this moment, everyone can personally felt the cultural connotation of traditional Chinese New Year, which values reunion, harmony, and common wellbeing.
“Thank you, Team ISEC, for this incredible Chinese New Year celebration! It was more than just a feast; it was a beautiful reminder of the diverse cultures that enrich our school community. Sharing dumplings, fruits, and drinks together fostered a sense of unity and understanding. This experience will undoubtedly inspire us to embrace and celebrate the unique traditions throughout the year. Wishing everyone a prosperous and culturally enriching New Year. ISEC our Home in china.” Said ANWAR HAFEEZ, a master's student from Pakistan.
“Thank you so much to the ISEC office for organizing an amazing New Year's party for international students! I really appreciated the effort and hospitality. Wishing you all a happy new year!" Said HASSAN MUHAMMAD USMAN, a master's student from Pakistan.
“Thanks to our teachers for amazing surprise. 我们祝你健康和顺利. Happy New Year!” Said MAIRUSYA LAWRENT GORDON, a doctoral student from Tanzania.
Laughter and blessings abounded, at this moment, students from different countries gathered at DMU with different languages and cultures to enjoy the flavor of the Chinese New Year, feel the warmth of DMU, and send out best wishes and expectations for the future. Wishing you happiness and health in the Year of the Snake, and wishing the DMU international students to continue their journey in the new year amidst the stars and the sea, and make more achievements of study in China.
