2024 cohort begins their journey at SDC
As the autumn semester at SDC officially kicks off on Monday, September 2, excitement and anticipation fill the air. Nearly two weeks have passed since the first students of the 2024 cohort set foot on campus. But what exactly have the new students been up to during their intro weeks, and what motivated them to choose SDC?
Settling In: A new home away from home
The journey for non-Chinese students begins the moment they arrive on campus. The first few days are all about adapting to a new environment and getting comfortable in their new surroundings. Students move into their dormitories, secure Chinese phone numbers, and quickly learn to navigate the campus facilities, including canteens, supermarket, and campus bicycles.
A warm welcome: Intro weeks and cross-cultural adventures
Once settled, all 160 students come together for the official intro week. This is where social connections start to form, and cross-cultural teamwork begins to flourish. A wide range of activities, organized by the Study Milieu and Intercultural Learning (SMIL) taskforce from Roskilde University, help students break the ice and build a sense of community. SMIL, which has been a vital part of SDC since 2018, ensures that students not only feel welcome but also begin to thrive in their new academic and cultural setting.
Academic introductions and a historic excursion
In the second week, students dive into their academic programmes, meeting classmates and faculty members for the first time. These initial academic sessions set the stage for the studies ahead. The week culminates in a joint trip to the Great Wall of China, offering students a chance to connect over one of the world's most iconic landmarks - a fitting start to their adventure in China.
Meet the 2024 Cohort
The 2024 cohort is a diverse group of students, each with their unique reasons for choosing SDC. Here are some of their stories:
Nassim El Guezbari, Life Science Engineering and Informatics (Bachelor’s in Molecular Biology, Aarhus University)
‘I am really excited to experience China. I had no prior knowledge of China, and now I’m here — somehow. I look forward to discovering Chinese culture, especially the food, and exploring the unique cuisines from various regions. Hopefully, I’ll be introduced to them through the Chinese students and friends I’ll make here. I chose Life Science Engineering and Informatics after an exciting bachelor’s project that shifted my focus from molecular biology to bioinformatics, which has completely captivated me. The opportunity to study in China and immerse myself in a new culture and language was simply too good to pass up.’
Zhuangjin Hu, Public Management and Social Development (Bachelor’s in International Economics, University of International Relations, Beijing)
‘I chose Public Management and Social Development because it aligns closely with my undergraduate studies. Some of my friends have already studied at SDC, and their experiences inspired me to pursue my academic dreams here. SDC offers a unique interdisciplinary environment with a strong international presence, and I’m thrilled to be part of this vibrant community at UCAS and SDC.’
Julie Beukel, Neuroscience and Neuroimaging (Bachelor’s in Biology, Aalborg University)
‘My interest in neuroscience was sparked by the character Amy Farrah Fowler from The Big Bang Theory. She inspired me and then I got into the brain. After the first week here, I’m excited to meet the new people I’ll be studying with, as well as those from other programmes. I’m also eager to experience Chinese culture, which is so different from what I know in Denmark.’
