On July 31, a field trip was conducted at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand. The goal was to interview various groups of Thai college students to understand the challenges and opportunities faced by international college students from Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries when they study abroad in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) region.

The field trip at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University is an integral part of the research project titled “Forging a Highland for Education and Talent in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area: The Dilemma and Countermeasures Faced by International College Students from the Countries of the Belt and Road Initiatives,” which has received financial support from the Guangdong Education Department under the College Enhancement and Innovation Program since September 2022. The research team leading this provincial project included Dr. Wei Chin Wong as the principal investigator from the Department of Communication, co-investigators Dr. Ghee Wee Ho from the Department of Life Sciences, Dr. Jackie Yeoh from the Department of Languages and Cultures of BNU-HKBU United International College (UIC), and Miss Wang Xun from the National University of Singapore. Their collaboration brought together diverse academic perspectives, enriching the depth of the research scope and effort.

Dr. Wei Chin Wong, Dr. Jackie Yeoh and Dr. Ghee Wee Ho (from the left to right) at the entrance of Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University.

During the field trip at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, an in-depth interview was conducted, focusing on students who had not previously studied in China. Through detailed inquiries and explorations, various aspects were examined, including the motivations driving their interest in studying in China, their perceptions of educational opportunities and quality in the Chinese academic landscape, as well as their expectations and goals for their educational journey in China. The investigation also delved into their concerns about adapting to a new cultural environment, anticipated challenges in social integration, and the necessary support systems for international students while navigating the complexities of the Chinese educational system.

Dr. Ghee Wee Ho and Dr. Wei Chin Wong showcased the maps, project purposes, and concept of Greater Bay Area (GBA) to the interviewees.

In addition to these initial inquiries, students were asked various topics related to studying in China such as their preferences for study locations within the country, the possible impact on their future careers, the steps taken to prepare for linguistic and cultural integration, financial planning strategies for managing educational and living expenses, and their views on the significant role that Thai and Southeast Asian students play in fostering relationships between China and Thailand.

Interviewees shared their general perceptions about Chinese education system, as well as concerns and challenges they might face if they decide to study in China.

The research team sincerely thank the Business English Program and the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Thailand. A heartfelt appreciation goes to Dr. Angvarrah Lieungnapar, the Associate Dean for Research and Academic Services, and Dr. Napasri Suwanajote, the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, for their support and hospitality during our field trip in Bangkok, Thailand. Lastly, a special thank you to the students who participated as voluntary interviewees for their valuable insights and time.

It is essential to further explore the intricate dynamics of cultural adaptation and influence mechanisms among Southeast Asian students who are studying or intended to further study in China. This nuanced exploration is crucial for creating an environment that supports and leverage education to advance the broader goals of internationalization within the framework of the Belt and Road and the Greater Bay Area initiatives.

The research team presenting souvenirs to Dr. Napasri Suwanajote (at the center), the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences; Dr. Angvarrah Lieungnapar (the fifth person from the left), the Associate Dean for Research and Academic Services, and the students from Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University.

Photo credit: Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University

Acknowledgments:

· Guangdong Education Department, China.

· Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Thailand.