From August 24 to 30, 2024, the Center for American Studies at Fudan University (CAS Fudan) organized a delegation of 12 students to visit Harvard University for a week of academic and cultural exchange as part of the "2nd Fudan-Harvard China-U.S. Youth Leaders Dialogue."

Candid Dialogue: Visiting Harvard's Fairbank Center

On August 28, the Fudan student delegation visited the Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies at Harvard University. The center's executive director, Dorinda (Dinda) Elliott, warmly welcomed the students and engaged in a meaningful discussion. She shared her academic journey and motivations for researching Chinese Studies, emphasizing the importance of understanding China and its culture in a globalized context. Dela Cruz provided an overview of the Fairbank Center's history, established in 1955 by renowned scholar John King Fairbank, initially focusing on modern Chinese history and politics but later expanding to include economics and culture.

Regarding current research directions, Dorinda Elliott highlighted the center's commitment to interdisciplinary approaches, fostering collaboration among scholars from diverse fields. She stressed the significance of academic exchanges between China and the U.S., expressing hope that this event would lay the groundwork for future collaborations. She noted that exchanges among young students are crucial for enhancing mutual understanding and encouraging deeper connections through academic dialogue and cultural experiences. After the dialogue, Fudan and Harvard students enjoyed a friendly game of ping-pong at the Fairbank Center, embodying "ping-pong diplomacy."

  Exploring Academic and Cultural Life at Harvard

During their time in Boston, Fudan students participated in various cultural and academic exploration activities. On August 26, they visited Trinity Church, the Boston Public Library, and the Museum of Fine Arts. They were captivated by Trinity Church's unique Gothic architecture and historical significance. The Boston Public Library, one of the oldest in the U.S., impressed them with its rich collections, while the Museum of Fine Arts provided insights into artistic expressions across cultures.

On August 27, the delegation continued exploring Harvard's campus, visiting the Museum of Natural History, the Harvard Art Museums, and the university library. The extensive exhibits showcased Harvard's achievements in natural science, while the art museums highlighted global artistic diversity. The students also toured the Kennedy School of Government, the Law School, and student dormitories, immersing themselves in the academic atmosphere.

  Historical Exploration: Tracing America's Independence

On August 29, the Fudan students engaged in a deep cultural exploration of Boston, experiencing the city’s historical significance as a key site of the American Revolutionary War. They followed the famous "Freedom Trail," visiting landmarks such as Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House, the site of the Boston Massacre, and Paul Revere's House. They also toured the USS Constitution Museum, reflecting on the courage and sacrifices of the American Revolution at Bunker Hill Monument.

  Fudan-Harvard China-U.S. Youth Leaders Dialogue Enhances Cultural Exchange

The 2nd "Fudan-Harvard China-U.S. Youth Leaders Dialogue" concluded successfully. Through a week of academic exchanges and cultural experiences, Fudan students fostered ties and strengthened friendships with their Harvard peers, laying a solid foundation for future cooperation between youth in both countries. The face-to-face interactions and intellectual exchanges are expected to create new possibilities for collaboration in areas such as academic exchange and technological innovation.