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HKUST(GZ) Playshop for Language and Cultural Exchange (PLACE) Summer Camp 2024

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  • Overview
  • Highlights
  • Key benefits

Welcome to the PLACE Summer Camp 2024, brought to you by HKUST(Guangzhou)! This is the PLACE designed for both international and Chinese students who have a passion for delving into the diverse cultural tapestry and vibrant energy of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, and for fostering cross-cultural connections. Over the course of three weeks, you will engage in a stimulating array of language, culture, sports and science exploration activities as well as guided cultural tours. Together with peers from various cultural backgrounds, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Greater Bay Area whilst forming lasting bonds of friendship.

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey of exploration and camaraderie with us?

  1. Assorted modules offering a wide range of activities for learning and experiencing culture, language, sports, and science.
  2. Breathtaking guided cultural tours across the Greater Bay Area, including captivating destinations like Hong Kong and Bruce Lee’s ancestral home in Guangzhou.
  3. Collaborative learning through engaging hands-on activities and team projects, fostering cooperation and creativity.
  4. Dynamic language and cultural exchange environment, where international and domestic students learn and share different perspectives.
  1. Acquire a profound firsthand experience of vibrant Chinese cultures, particularly within the Greater Bay Area.
  2. Build strong collaboration skills by living together with peers from various backgrounds.
  3. Cultivate language learning in an immersive environment that encourages practical application of your language skills.
  4. Develop lasting intercultural networks and friendships that transcend borders.
Agenda

Day 1 (July 25):

Check-in

Day 2:

Opening Ceremony

Welcome Party

Day 3-18:

Morning: Activities/Culture Tours

Afternoon: Activities/Culture Tours

Evening: Sports/Teamwork

Day 19-20:

Student Forum

Closing Ceremony & Farewell

Day 21 (August 14):

Check-out


Note: The specific activities for each day will be finalized closer to the Camp start date and are subject to change depending on participants' interest.

Modular Activities

We have a range of cool activities from four modules, offering you a full-on experience of the enchanting Lingnan culture and the profound allure of traditional Chinese culture.

•    Culture

Curious about Lingnan (Cantonese) attire? No problem! Just put them on and be the most dashing person around. Plus, a Teochew tea ceremony is ready for you to enjoy, inviting you to sip and savor the taste of antiquity. The festive customs of Guangdong and the thrilling lion dance performances will broaden your horizons and leave you amazed!

But that's just the tip of the iceberg! Immerse yourself in the charm of traditional musical arts with sessions on Cantonese opera and Guangdong music. Explore Lingnan paintings and architecture to discover a blend of Chinese romance and meticulous craftsmanship. Not only will you appreciate these masterful works, but you'll also get your hands dirty and revel in the joy of creation.

•    Language

Step into the language exchange space and challenge your eloquent tongue! Engage in debates to hone your rhetorical skills and become a master of articulation. With tongue twisters and script readings in both Chinese and English, you'll effortlessly enhance your language prowess in a fun and engaging atmosphere.

•    Science

It's Pop science time. You can interact with leading academics at HKUST(Guangzhou) to learn about popular science subjects such AI and robotics, and exchange ideas on the impact of science on our life and future.

•    Sports

Life is about movement, and this summer, wellness and passion go hand in hand! Experience the unique charm of Chinese martial arts with Wing Chun, a popular form of Southern Chinese Kung Fu represented by Bruce Lee, and Baduanjin qigong, or Eight-Silken Movements, a form of medical exercise. On the sports field, unleash your competitive spirit with soccer and frisbee tournaments. Come and battle it out for glory!  Plus, there are tons of exciting activities waiting for you: playing mahjong, Chinese painting in Cantonese style, and lots more!


Note: The activities may be changed based on interest and availability.

Culture Tours
  • Discover the Great Bay Area, including Hong Kong, with the PLACE Camp! Our guided cultural tours offer a diverse range of experiences, including:
    • Exploring Lingnan culture through visits to historical and cultural sites like Haizhu Lake for dragon boat racing, the Southern Han Dynasty Museum, and the ancestral home of Bruce Lee. These places offer a unique glimpse into traditional culture and martial arts, resonating with the visitor's heart and sense of history.
    • Experiencing the blend of old and new urban landscapes in the Greater Bay Area, from the grandeur of traditional architecture in places like Shamian Island and Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, to modern landmarks like the iconic Canton Tower and the impressive Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. In Hong Kong, enjoy a trip to West Kowloon City, Central Old Street, and a ride on the Star Ferry, capturing the city's cultural glamor that integrates East and West, old and new.
    • Emphasizing the natural beauty of the region through visits to places like the South China Botanical Garden and Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park, offering charming natural scenery and wildlife to immerse yourself in and experience.
  • Needless to say, we have an enticing itinerary ready for you, offering fulfilling experiences in many different ways. Join us on this journey to create unforgettable memories and feel the flow and beauty of time together!

  • Note: The tours may be changed based on interest and availability.

Application Requirements

  • Outstanding high school and college students from China and overseas.
  • Having English proficiency for daily communication (relevant proof of English proficiency should be provided).

Fees and Travel Grants

  • Camp Fee: 28,000 RMB (about 3,900 USD, inclusive of tuition, accommodation and meals, guided tours, and insurance).

    ◇   Early Bird Camp Fee: 25,200 RMB (about 3,510 USD). Please see the deadlines below.


  • Travel Grants: PLACE camp aims to provide a high-quality language and cultural exchange program for all students. Considering the different financial situations of students, we have established a travel grant scheme to help those students who are qualified but may have financial concerns.

    ◇   The grants may cover tuition, accommodation, meals, outings, insurance, and other expenses, with the possibility of full coverage.

    ◇   Applicants should submit relevant supporting materials at the time of registration. After review by the Admissions Selection Committee, approved cases and specific amounts will be stated in the offer letter.

Application Process

  • Complete the registration form.
  • Await the committee's review of your application. Successful applicants will receive an offer letter which details payment, any available scholarship, and travel information.
  • Complete payment and finalize enrollment.

Application Materials Checklist

  • Resume or CV (1-2 pages).
  • Photocopy of your passport information page.
  • Photocopy of your high school or undergraduate transcripts.
  • 300-word Personal Statement - The statement can include, but is not limited to: your cross-cultural experience, your interest in Chinese culture, your unique life experience, and what you expect to gain from the PLACE Summer Camp Program.

Deadlines

There are two rounds of admissions with different deadlines. We strongly encourage applicants to apply in the Early Bird Application round.


For international participants residing outside China:

  • Early Bird Application Deadline: May 15, 2024
    (Notification of Acceptance: Late May 2024)
  • Regular Application Deadline: June 15, 2024
    (Notification of Acceptance: Late June 2024)

For participants Residing in China (Mainland Chinese citizens, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents, and students of other nationalities residing in the Chinese mainland):

  • Early Bird Application Deadline: May 30, 2024
    (Notification of Acceptance: Early June 2024)
  • Regular Application Deadline: June 30, 2024
    (Notification of Acceptance: Before July 1, 2024)


FAQs

  • Q1: What financial assistance or grants do you provide for the summer camp?
    At PLACE camp, we are committed to providing a high-quality language and cultural exchange program for all students. Recognizing that students come from diverse financial backgrounds, we have established a grant scheme to assist qualified students who may have financial concerns. These grants may cover a portion or the full range of expenses, including tuition, accommodation, airfare, meals, outings, insurance, and other associated costs.
    The Admissions Selection Committee will carefully review all applications and make decisions based on the supporting evidence provided by the applicants. Students will be informed about the grants they receive, if awarded, in their offer letter. Our goal is to ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate in our program regardless of their financial situation.

  • Q2: Are there any additional costs to be paid besides the program fees?
    The program fees include tuition, accommodation and meals, guide tours and insurance. Other travel or personal expenses are not included.

  • Q3: What are the accommodation and dining arrangements for the summer camp?
    All participants will be accommodated in student dormitories on campus. Each student will have their own independent bedroom, as well as access to shared spaces and facilities. For more detailed information about the student dormitories, including facilities and services, please visit the following link:
    https://www.hkust-gz.edu.cn/campus-life/facilities-services/student-dormitories/
    There is a variety of catering options available on campus including KFC and Starbucks Coffee. Detailed information about these dining facilities and services can be found here:
    https://www.hkust-gz.edu.cn/campus-life/facilities-services/restaurant/

  • Q4: After the summer camp ends, will there be certificates or achievement awards?
    Yes, upon successful completion of the program, all participants will receive a Certificate of Achievement to recognize their hard work and dedication. Additionally, there will be opportunities for students to receive awards during the Student Forum event. During this event, participants will work in teams to present or perform in front of a judging panel, showcasing and consolidating what they have learned from the camp experience.

  • Q5: Is there guidance or support regarding visa and immigration matters? What kind of visa I need to apply for attending this program?
    Yes, students are required to apply for a tourist visa (L-Visa) for China mainland in order to participate in the program. Detailed information about the visa application process will be provided in the offer letter. Additionally, students are welcome to email us (place@hkust-gz.edu.cn) with any inquiries they may have regarding the visa application process.

  • Q6: Where do participants of the summer camp typically come from?
    As this is the first time we are hosting the PLACE camp, we do not have statistics for participants' backgrounds. We aim to create a flagship international summer program that attracts outstanding senior high school and college students from all over the world. Thus far, we have received applications and inquiries from students in the United States, Australia, Singapore, as well as China. We are excited to welcome students from diverse backgrounds and look forward to creating a rich and diverse international learning environment for all participants.

  • Q7: If I have special needs or disabilities, can the summer camp provide appropriate support and services?
    Please ensure to indicate any special needs or requirements in the registration form. Once we have received this information, we will make every effort to provide relevant responses to your inquiries and accommodate your needs to the best of our ability.

  • Q8: Are there opportunities to participate in workshops or seminars to gain deeper insights into local culture, economy, or social issues?
    Our program offers a diverse range of workshops, seminars, and field trips that provide participants with unique opportunities to explore, experience, and engage in discussions related to culture, language, and technology in the Greater Bay Area. For example, participants will have the chance to visit local enterprises and gain insights into cutting-edge research and technology, offering a hands-on learning experience that complements their academic pursuits.

  • Q9: What activities and projects are included in the summer camp schedule? When can I have the final schedule?
    PLACE camp features modular activities related to Culture, Language, Sports, and Science through seminars, workshops and field trips. For example, we have workshops with themes on intercultural communication, Chaoshan tea culture, as well as sports activities featuring traditional Chinese dance and martial arts. There are also popular science lectures focusing on topics such as civil engineering and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. The final schedule will be confirmed towards the end of June, when we finalize the list of participants. This will allow us to tailor the program to best meet the interests and requirements of our participants.

  • Q10: If I have the travel grant, what's the process of purchasing the airticket?
    Relevant instructions can be found in the offer letter. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please refer to the offer letter or reach out to us for assistance. We are committed to providing you with all the necessary information to ensure a smooth and seamless experience as you prepare for the program.

  • Q11: Do I need to pay any deposits or fees after I receive the admission notification?
    Yes, the offer letter will provide detailed information about the payment process, including fees, deadlines, and any other relevant payment details. If you have any specific questions or concerns about the payment process, please feel free to reach out to us for assistance. We are here to help guide you through the payment process and address any inquiries you may have.

Date

July 25 - August 14, 2024

Contact

place@hkust-gz.edu.cn

Organizer

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), China

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