My name is Andrew Vangh and I am from the United States of America. I earned bachelor degrees in Applied Economics and Construction Management from the University of Minnesota. I also earned a Master of Business Administration from Hamline University School of Business and a Juris Doctor from Hamline University School of Law. I clerked for the Law Office of Sivertson & Barrette and am a licensed attorney in the United States. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Law at Xiamen University’s School of Law. My experience with Xiamen University's School of Law, Xiamen University and the city of Xiamen has been very positive.
Xiamen University’s School of Law offers a curriculum, academic support and multicultural exchange where international professionals and students can thrive. The School of Law's foundation and advanced courses, offered in Chinese and English, provide both the theory and practice concerning the history, creation, interpretation and enforcement of Chinese and International Law. From my own experience with my supervisors, the School of Law is an environment open to questions and communications that encourages students to think critically through regular discussion, debate and dialogue that advances the development of law. The freedom given my colleagues and me to self-structure and self-regulate daily activities to achieve required goals allows for self-paced academic and professional advancement. Studies and research are also supported by an international network of academics, professionals and organizations who participate with the School of Law from countries such as Nigeria, Canada, Ireland and Scotland, who come to give lectures and work with my colleagues and me on our research. Studies and research are also further supported through an extensive, globally accessible, electronic international legal database. The classroom itself is an international exchange of legal information, methodology and culture with students and professionals from around the world including but not limited to the United States of America, China, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Ghana, Botswana, Italy, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, England, South Africa and more. Successful graduates from Xiamen University's School of Law will possess the practical professional skills and critical thinking needed to succeed in China and abroad.
The School of Law is located on Xiamen University's Siming Campus, where thousands of students and visitors pass through each day and where students have access to recreational activities and space for peaceful contemplation and work. The flow of peoples through the campus has provided me with the privilege to learn the customs and norms of many cultures as well as share my own. Xiamen University’s campus is ranked as one of the most beautiful in China. It is a maze of tropical gardens, ponds and forest which makes living here enjoyable and relaxing. Everything you need is located nearby, including markets, dining facilities, conference halls, cafes, a golf driving range and even an Olympic size swimming pool.
The city of Xiamen is an international commercial hub that reflects the many historical eras and people of China. From the traditional Chinese architecture of the nearby Nanputuo Temple, to the colonial-era construction on Gulangyu Island and the modern sail-like twin towers of the newly built Xiamen Shimao Cross-Strait Plaza, Xiamen is a frontier offering opportunities for adventure, escape and new beginnings. There is camping and grilling on Baicheng Beach, shopping and dining on Zhongshan road where one can find local and international brands and venues, and there is nightlife to be found in many areas of the city including Haiwan Park and the Marco Polo district. If you like to travel, Xiamen is centrally located and you can easily access other cities in China such as Shanghai or Hong Kong within a few hours.
Although at first it can be a struggle to adjust to life in China, once you do, the experience will be very rewarding. I have made many friends and new colleagues and look forward to the next few years here as I complete my PhD.
Author: Andrew Vangh
PhD candidate in International Law
