Tsinghua students see stars at Kylemore for the first time
A group of about 30 students and faculty from the University of Tsinghua in Beijing visited Ireland on a cultural enrichment trip organized by Jingyu Wang of Notre Dame Beijing, in partnership with Notre Dame Dublin and Notre Dame Kylemore.
“Everything about Dublin was unforgettable—the art, the music, the dance,” says student Junli Chen. “But what I enjoyed the most was our hiking adventure in Dublin. We took lots of beautiful photos, felt the sea breeze on the mountaintop, and had the unique experience of seagulls trying to snatch our food. I learned that even with cute animals, it's important to protect your food because they might not be as gentle as they seem. Patrick also showed us a lot of warmth and assistance. Dublin truly is a romantic city.”
"What impressed me the most was hiking on Omey Island with Michael. He led us past the ruins of a castle and an ancient tomb over five thousand years old. When I approached them myself, I truly touched the ancient history of Ireland. On this journey, I felt the inheritance and continuity of Irish culture, saw the local residents' respect and protection for historical sites, and witnessed the harmonious coexistence of people and nature. This trip was incredibly rewarding for me." —Xinyu Zho
Next, the students traveled out west to Kylemore. It was a week of many firsts for this group of young people who grew up in one of the world’s most populated cities. They might have expected Ireland's green landscapes, but not to be swept away in dance at the traditional Irish music house Teach Ceoil, not the neolithic bones dug up by rabbits on Omey Island, and certainly not to have to pronounce Programs Assistant Tadhg's name.
And not, on the darkest night, unpolluted by city lights, to see the bright Connemara stars—for some of them, for the first time.
Jingyu Wang of Notre Dame Beijing said: “The recent visit of Tsinghua University staff and undergraduate students to Notre Dame Dublin and Kylemore was a truly enriching experience. My colleagues in Ireland showcased the exceptional work and hospitality of a global research Catholic university. The delegation was particularly impressed by the well-designed and organized programs offered at these locations.
Notre Dame’s 12 global locations in major cities in the world provide a unique platform for international partnerships and scholarly exchanges. This visit to Notre Dame in Ireland marks a significant impact in our collaboration with Tsinghua University. By fostering connections between our three Notre Dame global locations at Kylemore, Dublin, and Beijing, we are creating new opportunities for academic and cultural exchange between Notre Dame and our global strategic partners in Ireland and China.”
"The most unforgettable moment was the cheol performance that night. Music is a universal language. We could vividly feel the joy brought by the strong rhythm of Irish music and tap dancing, and we expressed our enthusiasm by clapping along to the beat. That night, the idea that 'music knows no borders' came to life as we embarked on a unique artistic journey with the Irish musicians and dancers." —Aiwei Guo
It is always wonderful sharing our special region and the space at Kylemore with students—this was particularly meaningful to offer for visitors from so far afield. The Tsinghua students showed real engagement and enthusiasm with all the activities and interactions offered to them. We look forward to hopefully meeting more of this university’s scholars!
Tsinghua is one of the most prestigious universities in China. Through teaching, research, and innovation, Tsinghua is committed to the advancement and well-being of the nation and the world.
Originally published by at kylemore.nd.edu on October 16, 2024.