On September 10, 2026, the School of Economics and Business Administration, Beijing Normal University (BNUBS) successfully hosted an orientation session for its 2026 intake of international students. The event aims to help newly admitted international students quickly familiarize themselves with campus facilities, university regulations and training arrangements, and smoothly integrate into academic and daily life at BNU. More than 40 international students from 18 countries gathered at the session amid a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere. The orientation was presided over by Xie Jia, Director of the School’s International Office. Tutors for new students including Li Jingya, Wang Dan and Shang Yihong also attended the activity.

Figure 1 Group photo taken at the orientation session

The orientation consisted of five segments: self-introductions, overview of the University and the School, sharing sessions by senior international students, open discussion, and briefing on academic training programmes. In the opening icebreaker, new students took turns introducing themselves, sharing their hobbies, motivations for studying in China and academic expectations, which helped them build rapport with one another. Afterwards, the host presented an overview of the University and BNUBS, highlighting disciplinary strengths and educational features. Explanations were given on campus resources, administrative rules and student services to help new students form a holistic understanding of the University and the School.

Figure 2 New students making self-introductions

During the peer sharing session, senior international student representatives from Mexico, Vietnam and Laos drew on their personal experiences to share insights covering coursework, campus life and cross-cultural adaptation. They offered a wealth of practical advice and answered various questions raised by new arrivals. In the free discussion segment, new students engaged in in-depth conversations with faculty and senior peers, creating a highly interactive environment. At the end of the session, the three class tutors delivered a special briefing on core matters including course selection procedures, curriculum schedules and academic requirements. They elaborated on the course registration workflow and key precautions to lay a solid foundation for the new students’ upcoming studies.

Figure 3 Senior students sharing their experience

This orientation session enables international freshmen to gain a clear and comprehensive picture of their upcoming academic journey. It also builds a communication bridge between faculty and students, and between new and senior learners. The School’s International Office will continue to provide robust support and services for international students. We help scholars from all nations achieve academic progress, broaden their horizons through cross-cultural exchanges, and write their own youthful stories.

Contributed by International Exchange and Cooperation Office

Edited by Xie Jia

Reviewed by Hu Conghui