On December 2, 2023, Dr. Diao Xiaolong, Assistant Professor of Chinese Culture and Global Communication (CCGC) at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FHSS), led a group of 12 students from UIC to participate in the "Forum on Promoting the Tradition of Studying Abroad and Serving the Country." This event was part of the Second Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Forum and the 5th Students Abroad Festival organized by the Western Returned Scholars Association.

Five distinguished historians were invited to deliver speeches, among them: Lei Yi, researcher at the Institute of Modern History, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences; Prof. Ouyang Zhe, doctoral supervisor at the Department of History, Peking University; Prof. Liang Chen, doctoral supervisor and vice dean of the School of History, Nanjing University; Chen Jian, researcher at the Center for the Study of International Students and Modern China, Jiangsu Normal University; and Wang Wen, executive director of the Chongyang Institute for Financial Research, Renmin University of China.

Through the experts' shared insights, student audiences discovered the remarkable and indispensable contributions made by students studying abroad in the modern period towards the achievements of New China. Prior to the establishment of the PRC, these students prioritized the development of individual talents and the integration of learning and practical application. Their objective extended beyond studying abroad, encompassing the attainment of academic independence, safeguarding the nation from danger, and rejuvenating China. The inspiration that previous students studying abroad have provided has motivated successive generations of students to pursue academic excellence and contribute to their country. In contemporary times, the significance of studying abroad has experienced transformations and students encounter novel complexities. The future generation of students studying abroad should seize the contemporary opportunities and enthusiastically devote themselves to serving their country after returning.

Reporter： Jiayi Wang

Yilun Zhao

Editor: Jingli Lai

Reviewer: Dr. Jianing Chen