My Summer at Peking University: A Journey Through China’s Culture and Innovation

In summer 2018, I was fortunate to join Peking University's (PKU) exchange program on a scholarship as part of my MBA journey. This program provided an immersive academic and cultural experience in Beijing, offering a platform to understand China more deeply and study cutting-edge subjects.

The PKU Summer Program

PKU's summer program is a unique initiative designed for international students. It’s not just about academics; PKU combines rigorous coursework with cultural and social experiences, ranging from city tours to engaging with local students. Faculty from top global universities are invited, bringing a rich diversity of knowledge to the program. The courses cover a range of fields—humanities, social sciences, and interdisciplinary studies—and give students a chance to gain insights into frontier topics.

First Impressions of Peking University

As one of China’s most prestigious universities, PKU is remarkable both for its beautiful campus and its academic legacy. Founded in 1898, PKU embodies values like patriotism, progress, democracy, and science. The campus is a harmonious mix of traditional and modern architecture, with stunning lakes and gardens that make it a truly inspiring place to study. PKU attracts students from all over the world and offers top-notch facilities, making it a vibrant learning environment.



















Diving into Big Data Analytics

One of my core courses was on Big Data Analytics, taught by the renowned Prof. M. Tamer Ozsu from the University of Waterloo. This intensive module covered the basics of modern data infrastructure, including platforms like MapReduce and Spark. With lectures and hands-on sessions, we explored the challenges and solutions in big data systems. It was a highly engaging experience and a fantastic introduction to the future of data-driven decision-making.

Exploring Medtech Entrepreneurship

Another standout module was on Medtech Entrepreneurship, led by Prof. Dr. Robert T Chang from Stanford University. We explored digital health, medical regulations, and innovation within healthcare, using the renowned Stanford Biodesign process. As someone interested in entrepreneurship, this course was a goldmine. I even had the chance to deliver a presentation at the Stanford Center on PKU's campus, which was a thrilling experience.

To deepen our understanding, we visited PKU's Department of Ophthalmology, meeting doctors and learning firsthand about medical technologies used to treat eye diseases. This visit gave us an up-close look at healthcare in China and highlighted the potential of tech-driven solutions in medicine.

Unforgettable Moments at the Great Wall

PKU arranged a memorable excursion to the Great Wall of China. With around 30 students and a guide, we took the cableway up and returned via toboggan, a thrilling experience! We spent hours exploring, taking pictures, and appreciating the scale and history of this iconic landmark. The trip was a refreshing break from studies and a chance to bond with fellow students from all over the world.

Campus Life and Challenges

Living on campus was an adventure in itself. The Shaoyuan Guesthouse, where I stayed, had some initial hiccups—room mix-ups and limited facilities, which I hadn’t expected. However, I eventually settled in and appreciated the convenience of nearby amenities like the 24/7 supermarket and local canteens. The PKU campus is well-equipped with everything from ATMs to mobile shops, making student life easier. And though I missed the chance to explore PKU’s library (under renovation), I got to experience campus life, meals, and facilities through my PKU ID card, which allowed me to access services all over campus.

Reflections and Lasting Connections

My time at PKU was as enriching as it was memorable. I not only learned about cutting-edge topics but also formed friendships and built a network with students and professors. Today, I stay in touch with several Chinese friends, and we’re exploring ideas for startups together. The program was a vibrant platform for networking, and I was honored to meet faculty from around the world and learn from their diverse experiences.

Experiencing Beijing was unforgettable—whether I was riding shared bikes around campus, enjoying cultural outings, or presenting in world-class facilities. PKU’s summer program didn’t just teach me academically; it broadened my understanding of China, its people, and its potential for innovation. It’s a journey I’ll always cherish.

Location: 5 Yi He Yuan Lu, Hai Dian Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100871

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Insights from an Inspiring Talk by the Indian Diplomat to Taiwan: Strengthening India-Taiwan Relations

Image
In March 2018 , while pursuing my Global MBA in Taiwan, I had the unique opportunity to attend a talk by Mr. Sridharan Madhusudhanan, the Director General of the India Taipei Association. This event, held at National Taiwan University (NTU), was part of NTU’s Ambassador Day, where students and faculty gather monthly to hear from diplomats and international leaders. Mr. Madhusudhanan’s talk on the growing India-Taiwan relationship left a deep impression on me, especially as an aspiring entrepreneur keen on fostering connections between Taiwan and India. The event was organized by NTU’s Provisional Office of the International College, and the enthusiasm among NTU students was clear from the beginning. Students from various backgrounds expressed a strong interest in understanding India’s rapid growth and its potential as a partner in trade, technology, and culture. NTU faculty members also emphasized how vital it was for Taiwan to cultivate relationships with major global players like Ind...
Read more

An Incredible Experience as a Mentor and Judge for the Hult Prize at DUT, DANANG

Image
Being part of a prestigious event like the Hult Prize at Danang University of Technology (DUT) was an exciting and humbling experience. The Hult Prize, known globally as the "Nobel Prize for Students," challenges young minds to create viable, impactful startups. In 2021, the challenge aimed at building food enterprises that could transform supply chains, create jobs, and improve the lives of 10 million people by 2030. It all began when I received an invitation from Huyen Tran, Vice Director of the Hult Prize at DUT. I was honored to be invited as both a Mentor for the participating teams and a Judge for the final round. This opportunity allowed me to share my experience in entrepreneurship and startup development while supporting and assessing student innovators. Key Details of the Event The Semi-final and Mentoring Day were scheduled for January 10, 2021. In the morning, 24 registered teams would present their ideas, and only six would advance to the final round. In the afte...
Read more