Peking OSS Experience Part I - University Review
- Eyleen
- Oct 19, 2016
- 3 min read
In search of an adventure? Or just looking to expand your academic and personal development? The Peking University (PKU) Summer School International programme is here to do just that!

Background information on Peking University
As with all universities, Peking University offers the opportunity for holistic learning structure for their summer programmes. Peking University, also known as PKU or Beijing University, is one of China's top Chinese research universities. PKU is the first modern national university established in China, founded as the Imperial University of Peking in 1898.Throughout its history, the university has educated many prominent modern Chinese thinkers such as Mao Zedong, Lu Xun, Gu Hongming. Known for its vibrant and dynamic school culture, the University is recognised to be the top few summer school choices for international students.
Two students from the Accountancy and Marketing programmes have given us a sneak peek into the PKU summer programme - check out what they have to say!

Anne Wong, Year 2 Accountancy Student
How would you describe your summer school experience in general? Why?
If I could describe the Peking University Summer School experience in one word, it will be the word enlightening! Through this experience, I have gained greater self awareness by knowing what my limits are, as well as social awareness in terms of experiencing different cultures.
How does it feel to be in their school campus? Why?
I was quite awed! The first thing that struck me was the size of the PKU campus. Peking University is also a historical sight in China and it is in fact regularly visited by tourists. The school is also a beautiful place where you can take really nice pictures with the scenery.

A lake in PKU
What modules did you pick up at the university?
I took topics such as China's Global Challenges, Chinese Politics and Philosophy.

(from left) Anne with international students from Hong Kong and Australia
Are you satisfied with the school’s delivery of that subject?
The PKU program promotes self-directed learning which provides me with a decent foundation in these courses, it also provides me with a direction for future learnings.
What are the important takeaways you have from this trip?
The school’s method of delivering lessons have deepened my interest in politics and philosophy.
Personally, I have learnt to be more critical in terms of reasoning, and have developed a greater desire for learning.
What would be the one purpose/reason for which you would recommend your peers to go on this trip?
It will definitely be exposure they can gain from the trip.
Any advice to give to potential UniSIM full-time students considering this OSS programme?
Do not be afraid to try out new things and get out from your comfort zone!
Do you think the summer school overseas experience lived up to your expectations ?
It has exceeded my expectations given that I did not expect the experience to be as fulfilling in the area of academics and self-development.

Phan Zheng Zhi (Zac), Year 3 Marketing Student
How would you describe your summer school experience in general? Why?
Enriching and revealing. Enriching as the trip had not only exposed me to the unique native culture, but had also allowed me to gain an enhanced perspective about the distinct differences between the Singapore and Chinese academic environment. Revealing as the trip had challenged my capabilities to adapt and be flexible in a new and unfamiliar environment while coping with a diverse range of challenges in both academic and non-academic ways.
So how did the university carry out its school curriculum?
The lessons are carried out in a systematic, rigorous and interactive manner. Beyond testing students on purely academic terms, it also challenge students on their ability to make thoughtful communications and participate in intellectual discourse through discussions, presentations and debates.
What are the important takeaways you have from this trip?
Academically, I have broaden my horizon on the areas of Chinese politics and philosophy. This had allowed me gain certain insights that would valuable in understanding the way China is involved in the world, particularly Asia, as a major power.
Beyond the academics, I had strengthened my critical thinking skills to think further about the intricacies of how political, economic and social issues are interconnected on both the national and international level.
Any advice to give to potential UniSIM full-time students considering this OSS programme?
Be brave and try new things!

Group photo taken after lesson with professor and other international students
Thank You Anne and Zac for the exclusive interview about Peking University, Beijing China. Check out Part 2 of Peking OSS Experience: Places of Interest at Beijing, China to have more ideas on what to do and where to go during your Overseas Summer School Experience!
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