On the evening of October 12, the International Cultural Exchange School at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics (SUFE) was brilliantly lit and filled with a vibrant atmosphere as it successfully hosted the 2025 Freshmen Welcome Party under the theme "Youth Express, Dreams Set Sail." The event brought together over 200 Chinese and international students from countries around the globe. Embarking on an immersive journey themed around a train—with stops at "Friendship Station," "Courage Station," and "SUFE Station"—the new students began their university life, participating in a cross-cultural exchange full of warmth and youthful energy.
Structured along the narrative thread of a train journey, the party featured a dozen meticulously prepared performances, including band performances, solo songs, dance, and magic. Chinese and international students used the arts as a bridge, showcasing the beauty of cultural integration on stage.
The Torrent band, a multinational group consisting of students from Japan, Myanmar, and Thailand, kicked off the evening, energizing the audience with two stylistically distinct songs: "Do You Want to Dance" and "Country Road." Through seamless collaboration, they masterfully blended the vitality of rock with the warmth of country music. Following them, "The One Long Two Shorts" combo, formed by 2025 freshmen, performed the song "Love Wrong," leading the audience to reflect on the warmth of emotional growth in youth with their delicate vocals.
Myanmar studentMAY MYAT THWAY then delivered the song "Go Away, Dark Clouds," conveying a positive mindset with her clear and bright voice. Chinese student Ji Zi'an followed, also conveying youthful energy through song; his performance of "I'm Alive" depicted the journey of growth, moving every audience member. Morishita Hideyo from Japan and Jiang Yingyue from Italy collaborated on the jazz classic "Why Don't You Do Right," creating a unique retro atmosphere. Bassem from Egypt delivered a powerful rendition of Eminem's "Lose Yourself," his explosive rap showcasing a steadfast dedication to dreams, which resonated deeply with the crowd.
Dance and magic were also highlights of the evening. A faculty-student dance performance of "What is Love" interpreted youthful vitality with agile and spirited movements, with stage lights shifting along with the choreography to create a dreamy ambiance. Zhang Siyue, a member of SUFE's P.C.M Magic Club, amazed the audience with his "Enigma" mentalism act, demonstrating the wonder of mind-reading through interactive participation, drawing waves of cheers. Shortly after,SUT GAM AUNG(Myanmar) delivered the song "Leave Quickly," bringing a delicate and tender emotional atmosphere. Concluding the performances, Liu Shengjie sang "Silk," a song set against the backdrop of millennia of cultural exchange along the Eurasian continent, whose melodious tune conveyed the profound depth of blended cultures.
To help new international students quickly integrate into university life, the party was designed with a strong focus on interactivity and experience. Four rounds of lucky draws were held, bringing surprises to the newcomers. A photo area featuring signs with phrases like "I Miss You So Much at SUFE" and the university's mascot became a popular spot, with students eagerly taking pictures to capture their first beautiful moments on campus. During the intermission, Chinese and international students in the indoor exchange area shared their home cultures and talked about their initial feelings about university life.
The party was organized by the International Student Union (ISU), whose team members hail from countries including Malaysia, Russia, Brazil, and Japan. From initial planning and rehearsal coordination to on-site arrangement, members overcame language and cultural differences, collaborating effectively to complete all tasks.
