On May 27th, a study program between the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse (UWLAX) and Hangzhou Normal University (HZNU) established under the “American Short-term Study in China Initiative” (ASSCI), commenced officially. Professor Zhang Hangjun, Vice President of HZNU, attended the ceromony and welcomed the students. The ceromony is joined by 11 students and a leading teacher from the United States and representatives from relevant departments and schools of HZNU.

Professor Zhang Hangjun emphasized that this year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the United States. He underscored that the hope, foundation, and future of China-US relations reside in the people, particularly the youth. The university aims to take this program as a platform to foster meaningful exchanges and strengthen the friendship between Chinese and American youth. HZNU, he mentioned, is proud to be among the pioneer universities in China to host ASSCI programs. He hoped that the American students would have a firsthand experience of China, getting to know its culture, Zhejiang's distinct heritage, and Hangzhou's unique charm and building friendships with HZNU students and creating an enriching, enjoyable, and unforgettable overseas study experience.

Xu Hongying, the team leader from UWLAX, expressed appreciations of HZNU for its delibrate organization. As an alumnus of HZNU, she vowed to solidify the foundation of cooperation between the two institutions through researches and exchanges, fostering friendships that will take root in the hearts of young students. She encouraged the students to approach this unique opportunity with an open mind and a daring spirit, seizing the chance to deepen their understanding of Chinese culture, broaden their international horizons, and transform this experience into a treasure for life.

The ASSCI serves as a valuable platform for fostering exchanges between youth from China and the United States, while also breathing new life into the promotion of educational cooperation and exchange between the two countries. HZNU remains committed to strengthening its partnerships and exchanges with foreign universities, thereby contributing to the continual advancement of the university's international education standards.