International students visited Suzhou blind-dating corner

This spring, international students from XJTLU's Advanced Chinese Class CLT008 stepped into the blind-dating corner at Qiongjidun Metro Station, embarking on an extraordinary language and cultural journey.

Through introductions by the staff, careful observation of personal profiles across different age groups, and heartfelt conversations with locals, the students not only acquired authentic vocabulary and expressions but also immersed themselves in the local flavour of Chinese life, gained insight into the perspectives of contemporary young people, and forged genuine connections with the local community.

The students did more than just offer suggestions—such as adding English translations or an 'international section.' They brought a unique global perspective that injected fresh thinking into this traditional social space, proposing location-based themes for subway stations: a 'Student Social Wall' or 'Higher Education District' for university districts, and a 'Professional Networking Zone' for the CBD.

A freshman, Lexin Xu from Malaysia, shared her experience of the event with us. "This was my first encounter with such a scene. People write their qualities and expectations on paper and post them densely across the boards. There are no textbooks here—only the vivid breath of life. It taught me how Chinese people cherish family and fate, and helped me understand their criteria for choosing a partner. I hope to have more opportunities in the future to step beyond campus and learn from the greater classroom of life."