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May 2024 

In May 2024, the Advanced Research Program was hosted at Shantou University. Four McGill students undertook in-depth research project on Shantou campus. With the help of their McGill and STU supervisors, they conducted their independent research plan through qualitative data collection, archival research, consultation with experts in their field, and hours spent writing at STU's iconic library. The four students also participated in all the extracurricular activities offered to the ICL students. 

Mathilde Hardouin, BA, East Asian Studies and Political Science

 I took this opportunity very seriously: as I was to go as an advanced research student, I wanted to make sure to be up to par, especially when it came to my ability to understand native content in books and native-speed discussions. With this in mind, I prepared myself thoroughly before the trip: I worked on my mandarin regularly in the months leading up to May, and made sure I had a well laid-out plan for my research. In hindsight, this preparation truly allowed me to make the most of my time in Shantou, and this opportunity materialized, for me, as the result of my dedication to learning Mandarin.

Yunung Lee, PhD, Social Work

Conducting human research within a one-month time frame in an entirely new environment is more challenging than one might imagine. The key is to come prepared but remain flexible. "Come prepared" means doing everything you can to understand the local context. This could involve initiating conversations with previous students or people from STU, so you arrive with some background knowledge rather than as a blank slate. "Being flexible" means recognizing that you will encounter unexpected opportunities and challenges. View all experiences as opportunities to learn about a new culture and world.

Chelsea Wang, BA, Philosophy and Political Science

I fulfilled my goals for this program to their greatest extent, exceeding my expectations completely. Studying in Shantou completely re-shaped my knowledge and interest in the history, politics, philosophy, sociology, and language in the area. I now feel very deeply reconnected with my culture, and I have cultivated a sense of belonging in it.

Kimberly Yang, BA, Philosophy and East Asian Studies

I was able to gather research and data not merely from online databases, but from real-life interactions - all of which I found to be a great highlight. For instance, much of my research revolved around the experience of opera performances in Chaoshan. Rather than merely reading up on the theatrical ongoings, with the help of my peers and professors, I managed to watch these performances in person, attend workshops, analyse historical artefacts from museums, and more.