Beyond Borders, United in Art: The Class of 2025 Journer Begins

On September 14 to 15, as summer gave way to early autumn, the International Department of the the College of Chinese & ASEAN Arts (CCAA) welcomed its Class of 2025 international newcomers. Over 90 students from 13 countries, brimming with passion for art and the Chinese language, stepped onto the vibrant campus to embark on their new academic journey.

Prepared with Care, Waiting to Inspire

This year's cohort of international students presents a richly varied tapestry, showcasing a composition of growing diversity. Learners with different skin colors and cultural backgrounds have gathered here, infusing the campus with fresh energy and charm. However, such diversity also brought more complex challenges for the orientation team: language barriers, significant time zone differences, and unpredictable international flight situations—each tested the meticulousness and thoroughness of the welcoming preparations.

The International Department's orientation team was well-prepared. As early as the summer break, they threw themselves into the intense yet orderly preparation with a profound sense of responsibility and mission. They carefully built warm online communities for the new class groups, where head teachers, like friendly guides, initiated the first contact across time and space. Through these warm interactions, the teachers not only conveyed their eager anticipation and care but also meticulously gathered each student's flight details and arrival times, laying a solid foundation for the subsequent arrangements.

To ensure a smooth and worry-free arrival for the newcomers, students received an extremely thoughtful "Orientation Guide" — the International Student Check-in Guide of CCAA— even before setting foot on campus. This guide serves as a detailed "campus survival manual," covering everything from the specific time and location for check-in to a clear, step-by-step process; from practical transportation tips and detailed campus maps to comfortable accommodation information; from the contact details of orientation staff and volunteers always ready to assist, to a crucial "Emergency Contact Card" for critical moments. Every detail was carefully crafted, each element brimming with heartfelt consideration and care. Like a silent yet attentive companion, it guided the students across mountains and oceans, ensuring they could arrive on campus smoothly and with peace of mind, ready to open a brilliant new chapter in their lives.

Seamless Registration, Smooth Campus Entry.

The International Department, understanding the mix of anticipation and anxiety that new students bring, has established a one-stop service center in the International Student Affairs Office. Designed with efficiency and care, this setup paves a smooth pathway for newcomers to begin their campus life.

On move-in day, student volunteers waited in front of dormitories like the first light of a warm morning. With welcoming smiles, they guided new students through their first steps on campus. As they walked, these volunteers became campus guides—sharing stories of the university’s founding spirit and vibrant growth, pointing out the quiet atmosphere of the library, the energy of the sports fields, and the comfort of the residence halls. They also highlighted the depth of academic programs, the range of hands-on opportunities, and the excellence of the faculty, inspiring excitement in every newcomer.

Equipped with the Check-in Procedure List, new students followed this simple yet precise guide toward their next destination. At the service point, they were greeted warmly by staff. With helpful guidance, each student signed the Dormitory Guidelines—a meaningful step into independent living and a shared commitment with future roommates.

Next, they received a campus card, a campus map, and a health check form. The campus card acts as a key to campus facilities, the map serves as a reliable guide to navigate university life, and the health form reflects the institution’s commitment to student well-being.

After submitting prepared accommodation documents—essential for personalized support—the newcomers completed registration under the careful review of experienced staff. The entire process was seamless and efficient. With no need to rush between different offices, the one-stop service allowed every student to step smoothly into their new chapter, fully ready to embrace the opportunities ahead.

A Journey Begins, A Memory Forever.

With the successful conclusion of the orientation program, the Class of 2025 international students have officially turned the page to a brand-new chapter of their academic journey in Chengdu. At the thoughtfully arranged welcome area, vibrant newcomers gathered before exquisitely designed display boards—some striking creative poses for memorable photos, others earnestly penning their aspirations and heartfelt wishes on the message wall. In this way, they etched the precious memory of their first encounter with the college into their hearts, where it will remain forever.

Over the following week, the International Department meticulously organized and launched a diverse series of orientation activities designed to help new students adapt. Like an elegantly unfolding scroll, these events presented a rich tapestry of essential topics: the enlightening "First Lesson for New Students," practical guidance on visa and residency procedures, in-depth exploration of cross-cultural psychological adjustment, crucial traffic safety education, a comprehensive introduction to campus life and academics, and friendly face-to-face sessions with academic departments. All were carefully curated to smooth the students' transition and set the stage for a fulfilling university experience.

"Eagles soar when met with winds; rocs take flight atop spring tides!" Dear Class of 2025 "Hai Cheng" students, having relied on your own perseverance and effort, you have now successfully "unlocked" this new chapter of life—university. May you take Chengdu University as your starting point, carrying courage and composure in your hearts, holding fast to clarity and determination. On this cross-border journey of learning, walk side by side with peers from around the world, and together, write your own brilliant story—your unique Chengdu tale!