On February 21, 2025, nearly 60 international students from over 10 countries gathered at the School of Economics and Management (SEM), Tongji University. By watching the vibrant lion dance performances, experiencing the traditional “Four Treasures of the Study” (brush, ink, paper, and inkstone), and tasting the delicious glutinous rice dumplings, they embarked on a “dual-track journey” — diving into cutting-edge business knowledge while exploring the charm of Eastern culture.

The ceremony kicked off with an enthusiastic speech by Professor LIANG Jian, Deputy Dean of Tongji SEM. Beside delivering a warm welcome to new international students, he introduced China’s geographical diversity, high technology breakthroughs and evolution of social network ecosystem. He also elaborated on cultural adaptation theory from a cross-cultural psychology perspective, encouraging students to embrace an open mindset, to understand the threads of civilization, and to become bridges between knowledge exploration and cultural exchange.

Staff from SEM then offered comprehensive guidance on visa procedures, academic regulations, and living tips, helping international students to quickly adapt to the study and life in China.

During the cultural experience sessions, international students picked up brushes to write four-character auspicious phrases and their Chinese names on lanterns and folding fans, making these handicrafts a medium for cultural integration. At the Yuanxiao tasting session, 2 students got the specially-made rice dumpling, becoming the “lucky koi” of the day. Students became even more excited when golden-red “lions” danced into the venue to the rhythm of “Huo Yuanjia.” They engaged intimately with the dancers and painted on the eyes of the lions, giving life to the lively creatures.

That afternoon, SEM organized a city tour for international students. Shanghai, known as the “Paris of the East,” is not only China’s economic powerhouse and a global innovation hub but also a cultural capital steeped in history. The students explored the city’s modern and ancient landscapes, gaining insights into the historical symbol of China’s reform and opening-up, and discovering Shanghai’s past as the foremost international metropolis of the Far East.

These immersive activities enabled international students to deeply experience China’s long-standing culture. In the years to come, the international students will gain knowledge, broaden their horizons, and experience diverse cultures in this city. They will continue to advance on their academic and cultural journeys, authoring their own youthful stories!

International cooperation and exchange are key strengths of Tongji SEM. The school has established partnerships with over 100 renowned institutions across more than 30 countries and regions, offering over 30 dual-degree programs and more than 80 non-degree exchange programs. The number of international students has consistently ranked among the highest at the university. The school’s programs have performed exceptionally well in various international rankings. In the Financial Times rankings (hereinafter referred to as “FT”), the school has consistently placed within the top 10 in the Asia-Pacific region for several years. Its Master in Management program has remained in the global top 50 for eight consecutive years, achieving an impressive 13th place globally in 2024. Additionally, its Master in Real Estate and Master in Supply Chain and Logistics programs ranked 2nd and 9th globally, respectively, in the Eduniversal rankings, both securing the top spot in Asia. In 2025, Tongji’s full-time MBA program surged into the global Top 31, ranking among the top 5 domestic institutions in mainland China, setting a new historical record for Tongji MBA in the FT rankings. With multiple sub-indicators leading globally, it demonstrated the leapfrog development of Chinese business education from “following” to “leading” the world.