I have been studying now at Xiamen University for more than 3 years. I earned my masters at XMU in Marine Affairs in 2014 and afterwards did one year of intensive language training before beginning my Ph.D. here at XMU in 2015.
Xiamen University has a beautiful seaside campus with idyllic natural surroundings and a unique architectural style that combines traditional Chinese architecture with Western influences. The campus is fully equipped and life is made easy by the robust facilities offered by the university. The location of the main campus is quite convenient for life in the insular city, and Xiamen city its self offers a dynamic but relaxed lifestyle with plenty to do and see. A vibrant foreign culture of expatriates co-exists with the local, indigenous culture; and the island abounds with pubs, restaurants, museums, parks, tourist centers and other attractions of both native and foreign persuasion. Despite this cosmopolitanism and vigor, life in Xiamen city nonetheless offers a relaxed, familiar atmosphere given the island’s humble size and sub-tropical climate.
Classes at XMU are challenging but not difficult, and students are given a wide berth to explore and strike out in their own academic direction. Faculty and staff are friendly and welcoming, and the university offers a full library with access around campus through a VPN service. The university also boasts a golf course, a swimming pool and a fitness center. There are several canteens around campus offering a wide variety of foods, including a halal canteen for Muslim students. Students are given a student ID card as well as an e-card linked directly to their bank accounts which can also serve as an ID. Students can pay for their meal at the canteen, borrow books from the library, rent a public bicycle or procure other service through their e-card. The campus offers a safe environment for its students, having a full security system and a police station located on campus.
Acclimation to life in China is not always easy. Like all countries, China has its own distinct culture; and Chinese society is very different from that of my own country. Communication, particularly of expectations and of guidance in adapting to life in China, can be challenging and is not always straightforward. Information, even of a kind that one might expect to be offered without inquiry, is not always given voluntarily in China; a cultural difference further compounded by the language barrier. While Xiamen University has a full English-language curriculum, and many staff members can speak English, not all basic necessities on campus are offered in English, to say nothing of off-campus services. Patience, a positive attitude, and a willingness to be proactive are the only ways to overcome such obstacles.
All-in-all I thoroughly enjoy my life at Xiamen University. I think Xiamen University is a great place to study for those seeking an educational experience abroad.
Author: Michael Gavin Johnston
PhD candidates in International Law
