“Welcome to Uruguay,” began Julio Fernández, M.Sc., Dean of Academic Development, as he welcomed the second group of students from Harbin Normal University in China. The event, organized by the International Office, took place on September 2, 2013, in the auditorium of the Pocitos Campus of Universidad ORT Uruguay.
In attendance were the students from Harbin, their mentors (students from Uruguay who will help them settle in), professors, and officials from the university and the Chinese Embassy. “We hope they learn Spanish, get to know our country’s culture, and take home fond memories of Uruguay,” Fernández added.
This year, the university welcomed 27 students from Harbin. The program is part of the Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Language, which requires students to spend the third of its four years in a Spanish-speaking country.
“This is an excellent, almost unique opportunity for students who have started their lives abroad,” said Mr. Ding Shang, Political Counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Uruguay, who spoke about the changes they will face, including living independently, far from their families.
“I would like to express my sincere hope that, in addition to being students, you will serve as bridges of friendship, communication, and understanding between the Chinese and Uruguayan peoples,” Mr. Shang added.
Next, María Azpiroz, M.A., the program coordinator, who taught this group in China, recalled that when she first met them, “they didn’t know what Uruguay was. They learned about some Uruguayan customs: the food, the asado; they heard about mate, the festivals, the music, and the candombe. Now, not only will they have to study, but they’ll also be able to experience much of what we saw in books and movies.”
“We’re all going to grow through this process—you will grow, but so will we, for having the opportunity to support you,” Azpiroz added. “Make the most of this experience.”