CW Chu College The Chinese University of Hong Kong eNewsletter

Prof LIU Yaxian, Associate Professor of the Department of Social Science, College of Education and Public Administration, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, visited CUHK and affiliated with CW Chu College in Term 2 of the 2016–17 academic year, to gain experience in University and College General Education course planning and college management. She shares about her time in Hong Kong.

A Journey with Many Gains from Visiting CW Chu College, CUHK

I came to CW Chu College of The Chinese University of Hong Kong from the Suzhou University of Science and Technology, as a Visiting Scholar, on 4 February 2017. The visit had two purposes: to learn about the General Education of CUHK, especially the college General Education, and to study the management of a college. After nearly half of a year, I have gained a lot.

Focusing on Cultivating Myself

I audited eight courses of University General Education, and interviewed Prof LEUNG Mei Yee, Director of the University General Education, Director of Baldwin Cheng Research Centre for General Education and Director of Leadership Development Programme at CUHK. I thereby learned about the framework of the General Education. Under the guidance of Prof Kenneth YOUNG, Founding Master of CW Chu College and Advisor to the Master, I audited a College General Education class in which a briefing was given for the final year project, translated a College General Education lecture, and learned about how student projects are supervised. After these, I understood the framework, the management and the purpose of the whole General Education Programme. During the learning period, I reflected on the different dimensions including humanity and divinity. The CW Chu College motto is Cultus et Beneficentia. Now, I feel deeply that Cultus is a journey throughout life. Without constant reflection, we cannot cultivate ourselves, and will not gradually improve; our work as teachers may then stagnate, or even deteriorate.

Colourful Life in CW Chu College

There were many activities at CW Chu College. I tried to attend every activity that I had time for. I joined the Toastmasters and Greek Mythology workshops. I became acquainted with many teachers and students. The Taiwan Movie Night and the Russian Culture Night made me feel their cultures, and I had the opportunity to taste many delicious foods. Seeing the graduates taking photos in front of the balloon bridge reminded me of my own student days. I interacted with College staff during the communal dinners three times a week. Now, I know their names, and can even distinguish their particular fields of responsibility. At the College High Table Dinner, the speaker's experiences and ideals touched our hearts. During the dinner, students happily talked with me and shared their vigorous thoughts. In a word, the rich and colourful College life gave me a lot sweet and warm memories. I strongly feel the educational ideal of this College, namely intimate, international, intellectual and involved.

Teacher Team with Many Social Connections

There are two teams in CW Chu College, one of which is the teacher team with many social connections. They are famous scholars. They create many opportunities to support students to develop. College Master is responsible for much of the fundraising for the College. They bring their social relationships into this College to serve students. They match mentors and students according to their needs, which benefits students greatly. The other is the administration team with warmth and patience for students and guests. Ms Melody LEE, College Secretary, especially, has very bright smiles. Under her leadership, the whole staff team is very efficient and never complains. They make many efforts to make students and guests feel at home. I am one of guests, and I appreciate them.

Now, I will say goodbye to this academic and warm College. Special thanks to my supervisor, Prof YOUNG. I look forward to welcoming College teachers and students in Suzhou, a traditional and international city.