On January 27th, 2017, the new year’s eve by lunar calender, the 2017 Spring Festival Gala for Staying International Students of Jilin University was held in the canteen on the third floor of Shenzi Yuan Dinning Hall in the Central Campus. The canteen was decorated with colorful and bright lights, creating a happy and harmonious festive atmosphere. Professor Chen Gang, the Executive Vice President of Jilin University, leaders of College of International Education, the Graduate School and Department of Student’s Affairs, 245 international students from 245 countries and 63 staying Chinese students were gathered together to enjoy the reunion dinner and wait for the arrival of the Chinese Year of Chicken.
The gala begun with joyful music. Nwaigwe Amarachi Ruth, a student from Nigiria whose Chinese name is Jingshu, delivered the first speech. She said that Jilin University was a home for both Chinese and international students and studying in China was a valuable experience for her. She thanked Jilin University for providing high-quality education resources and colorful cultural and sports activities that were highly beneficial for students and expressed her best wishes for the new year. Professor Chen Gang, the Executive Vice President, delivered a speech on behalf the university. He expressed his new year wishes to all the students staying on the campus and wished them more progress in 2017. He sang “Chinese Folk Song” to express his expectation and encouragement to the students. Then Professor Chen Gang went to every table and gave students red envelops symbolizing luck and safety as well as new year gift packages full of foods. After these, all the students rushed to perform on the stage one after another. Cheerful songs, spirited dances and interesting games alternated, fully demonstrating the versatility of students. The atmosphere was lively with wonderful performances one after another; continuous cheers and laughter pushed the atmosphere to a climax.
On the eve of every Chinese new year, Jilin University presents Spring Festival Gala for staying students. For these students, embracing the arrival of the new year alongside teachers and other students not only eases their nostalgia but also makes them feel that Jilin University will always offer them spiritual support.
College of International Education
February 13th, 2017
