Čínský život v ČR – aneb cesta online studentky, která usiluje o magisterský titul v Číně / Chinese life in the Czech Republic – or the journey of an online student studying for a master’s degree in China
Author: Aneta Písaříková
Published: 1 November 2023
To study in another country, to immerse myself in cultural diversity and at the same time gain priceless life experience – that is the dream of many. In 2021, it was my dream too.
I decided to apply for a master’s degree at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) in Chengdu, where I had already spent a year during my bachelor’s studies on an exchange programme. A surge of excitement swept over me when the e-mail arrived: “Congratulations! You have been admitted to the Master’s programme in Public Management and awarded a Chinese Government Scholarship.” It meant not only studying abroad, but returning to streets that feel like home, tasting my favourite dishes and greeting familiar faces. Fate, however, had other plans. The world was facing a pandemic that reshaped education. Undeterred, I embraced the chance to pursue my master’s online – determined to make the very most of this unique experience.
Study Schedule and Its Challenges
Postgraduate study in China is organised somewhat differently from that in the Czech Republic. In the first year a student chooses all the courses required for the degree. The second year is devoted chiefly to the thesis and, if necessary, to retaking subjects from the previous year. A further requirement for graduation is passing the HSK Level 3 Chinese language examination.
One challenge I anticipated was the considerable time difference between the Czech Republic and China. The university adapted by scheduling classes for us international students in the morning. My lessons therefore began at 7:30, while for my lecturers in China it was already 14:30, and classes ran into the evening. This timetable applied from Monday to Friday.
The biggest obstacle to leading a “Chinese life” in the Czech Republic was Chinese public holidays, when working days are shifted to weekends. Aligning my personal plans with academic obligations thus became a juggling act.
One particularly unusual feature of online study was sitting exams during the Christmas holidays. While my family and friends celebrated, I was revising. I vividly remember a Chinese language exam on 26 December – not only a public holiday, but a Sunday as well. However much I tried to adapt to Chinese academic life, at times it felt impossible.
Teaching Style and Different Perspectives
The teaching format differs little from ours: each subject comprises a 90-minute lecture followed by a 45-minute seminar. In China, professors are generally regarded as unquestioned authorities from whom students learn the most; Chinese students accept information and do not challenge their teachers. Given these expectations, I was surprised that Chinese professors often drew us into discussion – typically to explain how the concepts in question operate in practice in our own countries. We thus created a unique multicultural environment that fostered the exchange of ideas, perspectives and experience in our field.
I was also struck by the commitment and diligence of the Chinese lecturers. Almost every professor was available for consultation at any time of day. I recall several meetings with my thesis supervisor at the weekend, even at midnight Chinese time. Such active engagement, however, was expected from us as students as well.
Considerable emphasis is placed on the final thesis. First, the student prepares a proposal, which must be defended before a committee. The thesis itself undergoes two or three interim assessments by the committee. The final defence is held in May, but even then we have little respite – the committee gives every student suggested revisions before the work is lodged with the National Library.
During my studies I also encountered different interpretations of certain theories and concepts. For example, China describes its political order as a “system of multi-party co-operation and political consultation” rather than a one-party system. Likewise, the term “propaganda” is understood as an effective tool for implementing policy.
Online Study as a Gateway to a Global Network
At first, studying online felt like a compromise. I expected to pack my suitcase and fly to Chengdu as soon as China reopened to international students. I had no inkling that online learning itself would open the door to unexpected personal growth. Although physical proximity was lacking, the virtual classroom became my gateway to a worldwide network of like-minded people striving for higher academic achievement. Despite every challenge, I not only completed my master’s successfully but also broadened my horizons, deepened my global outlook and found close friends from a variety of backgrounds, cultures and time zones. Thank you for everything, China!
