Immersive Medical Studies and Cultural Exploration in Chongqing

Chongqing - Chongqing Medical University (CQMU) kicked off the 11th annual "CQMU Study & Culture Tour" event at its Yuanjiagang Campus on July 15th. This year, 41 students and teachers from 11 universities, both domestic and international, joined CQMU volunteers for an intensive two-week program.

During the tour, participants delved into subjects such as Chinese medicine, pediatrics, and dentistry, gaining hands-on experience and an appreciation for Chinese medicine culture. They visited notable sites, including the Chongqing Human Life and Health Museum, the Stomatological Hospital of CQMU, and The First Branch of The First Affiliated Hospital of CQMU. The cultural immersion extended beyond academics, with excursions to the Dazu Rock Carvings, sampling local Chongqing cuisine, and a deep dive into the vibrant Bayu culture.

Reflecting on her initial impressions of Chongqing, Viktoriia Poliakova from Voronezh State Medical University, named after N.N. Burdenko in Russia, remarked, "My first reaction was that it's so hot, and then I was struck by how vast the city is." Ceysens Houwert Annick J from the University of Antwerp, Belgium, shared his thoughts, "It is my first time in Chongqing, my first time in China. Initially, I was overwhelmed by the city's size, but as the tour progressed, I grew fond of it. One of my favorite experiences was the Chinese calligraphy course. I also enjoyed my time at the Stomatological Hospital of CQMU, where I interacted with numerous doctors and staff and observed various medical equipment."

The group's visit to the Dazu Rock Carvings left a significant impression on Annick, who described it as "absolutely beautiful." Physical activities such as Tai Chi also facilitated cultural exchange, though they posed a challenge due to their slow and controlled movements. Anastasiia Maranchak, also from Voronezh State Medical University, commented, "It was fascinating but difficult. Performing the exercises required strength and precision."

Culinary experiences, particularly Chongqing’s famous hotpot, provided another avenue for cultural immersion. "The hotpot is spicy for us foreigners, as it's not something we are accustomed to," said Anastasiia. Annick, who had never tried hotpot before, appreciated the guidance of Chongqing volunteers who helped him navigate the meal, allowing him to sample dishes like stomach and intestines. "It was an incredible experience," he noted. He expressed his satisfaction with the experience, saying, "I gained insights into the study and life of Chinese people, broadening my understanding of different cultures. I had a thoroughly enjoyable time here."

The kindness and hospitality of Chongqing's residents left a lasting impact on the participants. Viktoriia highlighted, "My favorite aspect is the people. They are incredibly kind. Everyone we met was friendly and eager to help, even if there was a language barrier."

Organized by Chongqing Medical University, this summer camp has been a resounding success for the past decade, drawing nearly 500 international teachers and students worldwide. This year's program attracted participants from 10 countries, including Canada, Malaysia, Hungary, Belgium, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Korea, Singapore, and Russia. The 41 students and teachers hailed from prestigious institutions such as the University of Alberta, University of Antwerp, University of Debrecen, Kwangwoon University, Karolinska Institutet, University of Malaya, Pleven Medical University, Ulyanovsk State University, Voronezh State Medical University named after N.N. Burdenko, North-Western State Medical University, and The Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Through this summer camp, participants from diverse backgrounds engaged in meaningful cultural exchanges, fostering a deeper understanding of Chongqing and strengthening international connections between Chinese and foreign educators and students, thereby enhancing cultural exchange on a global scale.

(Wang Haibo, as an intern, also contributed to this report)