Beijing International Studies University (BISU) welcomed on Aug 25 its freshmen of class 2023 comprising 1,669 undergraduates, 770 graduate students, and 284 international students coming from 81 countries. Chang Yu, secretary of the CPC BISU Committee; Ji Jinbiao, deputy secretary of the CPC BISU Committee and president of the university; along with faculty and heads of various departments attended the ceremony.

The opening ceremony on Aug  25

Hou Yuxiang, dean of the School of Middle Eastern Studies, served as a faculty representative. He emphasized the value of comprehensive and systematic reading to incoming students. "Reading 'from the beginning to the end' means embracing a holistic approach to understanding the subject matter. Only by doing so, can you sift through information critically, allowing for a more profound understanding of the world around you," said Hou. 

Hou Yuxiang, dean of School of Middle Eastern Studies, delivers a speech as a faculty representative.

Student representatives took the stage to share their experiences and offer advice to the newcomers. Yu Xinming, a student who majors in Tourism Sciences, said, "BISU provides a plethora of opportunities, from an immersive language environment to practical experiences that contribute to personal and academic growth." Ma Ruimeng, first-prize winner of the 2022 China Universities Debating Championship, also recounted her educational journey, highlighting the various opportunities BISU has provided her.

Student representatives give speeches as they welcome the freshmen.

Three freshmen representatives expressed their excitement and aspirations for the new students’ journey. "We've come to BISU to chase our dreams, grow, and continuously improve ourselves," said Wang Zelin, an undergraduate student of 2023. Song Suchen, a new graduate student, expressed his anticipation for the intellectual challenges and opportunities that awaits him, while an international student from Tajikistan voiced her eagerness to serve as a cultural bridge between China and the rest of the world.

Representatives of the freshmen of 2023 deliver speeches.

In his speech, Ji offered three pieces of advice to the students. First, he urged them to cultivate a sense of patriotism and social responsibility, encouraging them to leverage BISU's global platform to gain a comprehensive understanding of world cultures. Second, he advised students to maintain an enterprising spirit and to delve deeply into their academic fields. Lastly, he encouraged the students to aspire for excellence in both academics and character. To support these aspirations, Ji announced the newly set-up "Wutong Medal", an accolade to recognize diligent, well-rounded students.

Ji Jinbiao, deputy secretary of the CPC BISU Committee and BISU president, delivers a speech.

With these words of wisdom, BISU embraced its new members, excitedly anticipating the contributions they will make in the years to come.