On October 13, the Soochow University International Week 2024 kicked off on the south lawn of the Science & Technology Building at the Tiancizhuang Campus. The event aims to create a platform for multicultural exchange that promotes mutual understanding, respect, inclusivity, and harmonious learning from each other, and shared appreciation of diverse beauties, while showcasing the university's international educational characteristics.

This year's International Week theme is "Encountering the World at Soochow University." The event comprises an international education exhibition, a global cultural showcase, a food fair, and an international carnival. The education exhibition features 15 booths from high-caliber overseas partner institutions, offering direct channels and comprehensive information for faculty and students interested in studying abroad through on-site presentations and consultations. The event also includes innovative cultural games such as campus stamp collecting, quiz competitions, riddle solving, and cultural treasure hunts, significantly enhancing its entertainment value and interactivity.

The global cultural showcase presents 19 country-specific booths, allowing students to embark on an international journey without leaving campus through exotic food tastings, craft exhibitions, traditional costume displays, and interactive experiences with guests. The university library also participates as a special invitee, promoting the concept of universal reading.

"Welcome to taste Korean cuisine!" exclaims Yoo Hui-gun, a Korean undergraduate from the School of Chinese Language and Literature, dressed in traditional hanbok as she enthusiastically introduces Korean culture at her booth. "Being able to spread our culture while experiencing others' is truly a valuable experience provided by International Week."

Accompanied by the lively melodies of a jew's harp, Turkmen international students in traditional attire present an energetic Turkmen dance. Chinese and international students alike sway to the rhythm, clapping hands, immersed in the vibrant and joyous atmosphere, weaving together a harmonious cross-cultural symphony.

This year's International Week also features a special family activity area, offering interactive joyful painting, ribbon dragon and lion dance experiences, allowing both adults and children to immerse themselves in the charm of traditional Chinese sports culture.

Following the opening ceremony, international students from around the world presented captivating performances at the international carnival. The artistic programs, self-directed and performed by both Chinese and international students of our university, were brimming with diverse cultural flavors, fully showcasing our university's diverse campus cultural life and the vibrant, upward-looking youthful energy of students from China and abroad.

Chen Jiaqi, a Malaysian student from Suzhou Medical College, wearing traditional Nyonya attire, happily shares, "Today, I met friends from many different countries. Through our interactions, I felt the beauty of multicultural integration." Hoang Thi Thuy Ngan, a 2024 Vietnamese freshman from the School of Communication, attending International Week for the first time, excitedly expresses, "Each country's cuisine has its unique flavors. I'm very grateful to the university for organizing this event, allowing us to experience such diverse international cultures in one place."

"Since my first participation in International Week last year, I've been deeply attracted by the diverse and positive atmosphere," reflects Wang Jingying, a volunteer from the Soochow University Students’ International Communication Association (SICA) and a translation major from the School of Foreign Languages, who gained much insight while serving at the event. "In the context of globalization, we should actively build friendships with international friends through various activities and work together to create a beautiful global community!"