As for J-Term, many classes offered are deeply rooted in the city of Shanghai through site visits and field trips, as well as opportunities for regional travel across China. It’s safe to say that academic programs at NYUSH can be useful for NYUAD students who are seeking fulfill requirements abroad while at the same time explore the various paths offered by the growing program. Students can also make use of various internships available in Shanghai and can approach the NYUSH Career Development Center for assistance.
Shanghai Tips
The changes to the Engineering Study Abroad pathways for the Class of 2019 have increased discussion about studying at NYU Shanghai, the Global Network ...
Feb 7, 2016
[slideshow][Photo by Jose A. Varias/The Gazelle](https://cdn.thegazelle.org/gazelle/2016/01/12364226_10207890494003241_401450695_o.jpg);[Photo by Jose A. Varias/The Gazelle](https://cdn.thegazelle.org/gazelle/2016/01/12633239_10207890489723134_1774764078_o.jpg);[Photo by Jose A. Varias/The Gazelle](https://cdn.thegazelle.org/gazelle/2016/01/12655939_10207890489123119_34136413_o.jpg);[Photo by Jose A. Varias/The Gazelle](https://cdn.thegazelle.org/gazelle/2016/01/12633234_10207890520163895_571207710_o.jpg);[Photo by Jose A. Varias/The Gazelle](https://cdn.thegazelle.org/gazelle/2016/01/12656386_10207890491723184_1120788515_o.jpg);[Photo by Jose A. Varias/The Gazelle](https://cdn.thegazelle.org/gazelle/2016/01/12669997_10207890521563930_2007628530_o.jpg)[/slideshow]
The changes to the Engineering Study Abroad pathways for the Class of 2019 have increased discussion about studying at NYU Shanghai, the Global Network University's newest degree-granting campus. This has opened a conversation about the overall experience of living in the financial and economic capital of China.
Writing as a student who has now spent two semesters and a January Term at NYUSH, I have compiled reflections and tips that can be shared with those who are considering applying to study there in the near future. Here are a few of the top lessons from an NYU Abu Dhabi student who’s lived and breathed the NYUSH experience.
Academics
First things first. The academic selection at NYUSH, though not the same as NYUAD, caters to many disciplines. Although those majoring in Political Science and Social Research and Public Policy may not find many higher-level electives, Science and Engineering majors have the option of taking Foundations of Science at all levels at NYUSH, affording them the option to both study away and fulfill major requirements at the same time.
All students are required to take Chinese; given the context of Shanghai, where English is not widely spoken, Chinese is necessary to make it through a whole semester. There is also the option of taking various Core courses that fulfill requirements for NYUAD students, giving them more choice when considering what to enroll in.
As for J-Term, many classes offered are deeply rooted in the city of Shanghai through site visits and field trips, as well as opportunities for regional travel across China. It’s safe to say that academic programs at NYUSH can be useful for NYUAD students who are seeking fulfill requirements abroad while at the same time explore the various paths offered by the growing program. Students can also make use of various internships available in Shanghai and can approach the NYUSH Career Development Center for assistance.
Travel
Shanghai is a hub of regional and international transport. Those spending a semester in NYUSH have the option of traveling across as well as outside of China. For example, students have traveled to countries such as Korea, Taiwan, Japan and Vietnam. If an NYUAD student intended to utilize the various breaks during the semester, the only obstacle they might face would be applying for a multiple entry visa once in Shanghai. Thankfully, Student Mobility at NYUSH offers assistance and direction for those wanting to do this.Within China and Shanghai itself, options for travel and cultural exploration are plentiful. Shelly Lu and Joyce Tan, who work with Student Life in NYUSH in the area of New Student Programs, organized various field trips to cultural sites and events which allowed students to get a glimpse of these experiences even during the three weeks of J-Term.
“Shanghai is really a hub for travel and students have the opportunity to experience much of this region during a semester here,” said Lu.
From Shanghai, trains, buses and even flights can be very cheap, allowing students to take their cultural and experiential learning beyond the classroom.
“Various cultural programs and classes are offered, which include Chinese brush painting, Chinese musical instrument lessons and calligraphy,” Tan added.
Travel and learning by cultural experiences and immersion are some of NYUSH’s strongest offerings to an NYUAD student who comes for a semester or even a J-Term.
Pollution
An elephant in the room for many, the issue of pollution is often over-exaggerated. While some days can see high pollution levels, there is variation between the fall and spring semesters — with fall seeing relatively lower air pollution rates. Face masks are worn by many on the worst days, are easy to buy and given freely at NYUSH. Students also have air purifiers installed in their dormitory rooms; those who are more sensitive to air pollution can consult Health and Wellness at NYUSH for assistance if needed.Daily life
Food should not be a concern in Shanghai, although students not used to the cuisine may need some time for adjustment. Typical fast food chains are also widespread. NYUSH offers students kitchen facilities in the new residences in Jinqiao, as well as a dining hall at the Academic Building in Century Avenue. Halal food options, while at times harder to find, are still offered on campus and at various restaurants around Shanghai, a few of which are close to student residences.Travel in and around Shanghai is efficient and easy through its metro system. Students should be advised against taking it at peak hours, 7-9 a.m. and 5:30-7 p.m., unless they are interested in an uniquely immersive experience.
All in all, NYUSH offers an academically and culturally rich experience for students who are keen to explore the GNU’s newest portal site and one of the fastest growing cities in the world.
Joseph Chu is a staff writer. Email him at feedback@thegazelle.org.
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