How To Create Community + Fudan

Building Bridges: The Power of Community

Building Bridges: The Power of Community

As I reflect on my proudest moments, I realize that creating community has been the common thread that has brought me the most joy. Whether it was creating a yearbook for Tsinghua international students, starting a basketball league, or founding a church fellowship, my goal has always been to add value to people's lives.

I've learned that community is not just about bringing people together; it's about creating a sense of belonging, connection, and purpose. When I saw a need for a more affordable and inclusive basketball league, I took action. When I noticed a lack of space for young adults in a traditional church setting, I stepped up to create a welcoming environment.

My experience at Fudan University has been no exception. Our "Laowai Group" started with a small group of international students from diverse backgrounds (Philippines, Indonesia, Israel, US), and it quickly grew into a vibrant community. We explored Shanghai together, celebrated each other's birthdays, and supported one another through the challenges of navigating a new city and culture.

However, as the group grew to over 50 people, it became clear that we needed to find ways to maintain the personal connections and sense of community that we had initially fostered. This is a common challenge when building community, and it requires intentional effort to ensure that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

Building Community at Fudan

As international students at Fudan, we have a unique opportunity to build a community that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries. We can learn from each other's perspectives, traditions, and experiences, and create a vibrant and inclusive community that enriches our time in Shanghai.

So, let's continue to build bridges, foster connections, and create a sense of belonging at Fudan. Whether it's through a club, organization, or simply a group of friends, let's make the most of our time together and create a community that we can be proud of.