Ningbo University is an elite public university that has developed into one of the nation's key institutions of higher learning. Their motto translated into English is, “Seeking truth from facts and applying knowledge to the service of the nation."

“Education from the U.S. carries a strong prestige in China. We decided to explore our options,” says Wei-Chung. “With this collaborative opportunity, we would be able to accomplish multiple initiatives including increased campus diversity, a better financial picture, and international relationship development.”

You may be wondering: How did this partnership vision become a reality? Yanping Rinehart, a science technician at the College, provides support for Chinese students. Yanping plays a key role in how Chinese students adapt and transition into college life at Juniata. After seeing Yanping's success, Ran Tu '06, associate dean of admission and international recruitment, wanted to recruit more students and continue to ensure success with theCollege's diversity efforts.

Ran then introduced Wei-Chung, to Tony Ying, a Ningbo University representative and, with Rob Yelnosky '85, director of enrollment research and technology, toured Ningbo University. Upon their return, Ran and Rob proposed the idea for collaboration. Wei-Chung followed up with a visit to Ningbo during his sabbatical semester to vet the process. A business, IMA, or education program was proposed to the administration at Ningbo University. They determined growing the new IMAprogram would be the best plan of action.

“Wei-Chung and I attended the grand opening of a new campus of Ningbo University, our new partner in the coastal area of China,” says Jason. “In addition, we took the opportunity to visit Chengdu and Taipei. During our visit, we visited six high schools, one private education institute, two partner universities, and ouralumni in Chengdu and Taipei.”

Juniata strives to make the transition as comfortable and welcoming for international students as possible and is reviewinganticipated needs within the IMA department, academic and student services, the Center for International Education (CIE), and the rest of the campus community.

“Education from the U.S. carries a strong prestige in China. With this collaborative opportunity, we would be able to accomplish multiple initiatives including increased campus diversity, a better financial picture, and international relationship development”Wei-Chung Wang, associate professor of business and economics and director of global program development

“When the students arrive, the landscape of the College will change and we are preparing for that,” says Wei-Chung. “There are challenges that we have to face collectively as a campus to ensure that these students have an enjoyable and meaningful experience. We need to be mindful of language barriers, cultureshock, and other aspects of their transition.”

Juniata's partnership with Ningbo will promote diversity, inclusion, and educational excellence. In order to “think aboutwho we are,” we need to think about others, too.

Matt emphasized how this experience helped him grow in his ability to work in groups to create a cohesive product and gave him “more confidence to do things that may seem too hard or out of reach.”

“These students will be exposed to liberal arts education. And Juniata will have the chance to promote what we value the most: preparing students for life,” says Wei-Chung. “We want to let students immerse in an environment where a sense of community, interdisciplinary training, and interpersonalrelationships are valued.”