Shanghai Summer Intensive Language Program

You probably dream of speaking a 2nd or 3rd language fluently. Studying abroad can be one of the fastest ways in which a person improves their foreign language skills and deepens their cultural knowledge. Many students enrolled in DePaul’s Chinese language classes share the dream of going to China to study and use Chinese someday. DePaul offers a 7-week Summer Intensive Chinese Language Program at one of the most prestigious Chinese universities, Fudan University in Shanghai. The courses they take in this program are equivalent to one year of on-campus classes at DePaul. From late June to early August each summer, students in this program take intensive Chinese language classes and immerse in various cultural activities such as learning Chinese calligraphy, painting, chess, and Kungfu in Shanghai. Each of them also works closely with a Fudan student each day to practice Chinese language and deepen their understanding of Chinese people and society. For many students, it is a truly transformative experience that will forever change their life trajectories and visions. This will no doubt help shape the future relationship between China and the US, the two rivaling super powers and largest economies in the world.  

However, many DePaul students cannot afford to participate in the program, mostly due to the tuition (a total of 12 credit hours) that is not covered by students' normal financial aid package. By sponsoring part of their two-way airfare, visa application fees, 7-week living expenses or housing, or part of the tuition, you can help alleviate the financial burdens students interested in this program face. Your generous help will even encourage more students to consider this program and explore their dreams.  

For more information about this study abroad program, you can check this website: https://programsabroad.depaul.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewProgram&Program_ID=10067

Summer 2024 Study Abroad Program Alumni Testimonials: 

"Going to Shanghai, I was nervous because I was a fourth-year student going on a trip typically for third years. I didn't know what to expect, but once I got there and met everyone, I quickly felt at home. The classes were difficult, but I feel like my Chinese greatly improved. Outside of class, my two months in Shanghai were fast-paced and exciting. We were given opportunities to explore the city and fully immerse ourselves in the culture. Shanghai is a very tourist friendly city, so even if you feel unsure about your fluency level, you will still be able to do everything you want. I really enjoyed my time and recommend the program to all that are interested." 

--Brecken (took 4th-year Chinese language class at Fudan) 

"Nothing could have prepared me for how much I loved studying abroad in Shanghai. There was definitely an adjustment period getting acquainted to such a different country and culture, but once I found my rhythm living and studying abroad, it turned into such an insightful and exciting experience! It sounds very cliché (it really does) but being in Shanghai – and China more generally – was truly a life changing experience that helped me gain new perspective and real-world exposure to language, a new country, and its people. Whatever you are passionate about or even remotely interested in, Shanghai has it – and not only has it but does it WELL: language classes – amazing instruction with great teachers; public transportation – quick and efficient (in a different universe than CTA); food – delicious AND cheap; malls and shopping – nothing in the US will ever compare to Chinese malls; thrifting – on another level; nightlife – absolutely insane and thrilling; museums – some of the best; the list goes on and on… "   

--- Matthew (took 3rd-year Chinese language classes at Fudan)