international-student-life

So you are heading to China for your studies. That is exciting — and honestly, a little overwhelming at first. I have been through it, talked to dozens of international students who are living it right now, and here is the real picture of what student life in China actually looks like. First Days on Campus The first few days will feel like a blur. Most universities have a dedicated International Student Office (ISO) that handles your registration, visa check-in, and dorm assignment. Do not skip the orientation week — it is not just a bunch of boring speeches. You will get your student ID card, campus SIM card, and meet your buddy (yes, most Chinese unis assign a local student to help you settle in). The buddy system is underrated; these students speak English, know the campus shortcuts, and can tell you which cafeteria actually serves decent food. Get the WeChat app before you land. I cannot stress this enough. Everything in China runs on WeChat — paying at the canteen, scanning QR codes to enter buildings, talking to classmates, joining your course group chat. Without it, you will feel stranded. Download it, set it up with your passport,…