The inaugural cohort of undergraduate students from the Peking University School of International Studies has successfully completed their international finance program at Peking University Business School (PHBS) UK campus (PHBS-UK). This achievement equipped the students with a comprehensive understanding of international finance and valuable opportunities for cultural immersion, in-depth analysis of global issues, and personal growth, marking a significant milestone for PKU and PHBS in terms of student cultivation.
Undergraduates at the school celebrations for PKU and PHBS anniversaries
As part of a joint, multi-disciplinary development program, 18 undergraduate students, including 5 international students, embarked on a one-year International Finance course held at our Shenzhen and Oxford campuses. In Oxford, students attended nine weeks of specialized courses that included Financial Markets, UK and EU Trade, and UK and EU Politics.
The program fostered a diverse and supportive learning environment by facilitating connections between undergraduate and graduate students from various cultures. This encouraged cross-cultural exchange and created a sense of global community as postgraduate students shared their experiences and provided guidance to the undergraduates.
Undergraduate and graduate students during a visit to Cambridge University
Undergraduate and graduate students taking part in a campus table tennis competition
Through small class discussion, students were encouraged to think critically and analyse complex international finance topics. Going beyond theory, the curriculum enabled students to apply their learning to real-world situations and challenges and also offered in-depth analysis of current issues such as British politics, Brexit, and China-EU relations. The students' diverse backgrounds enriched the dialogue and created a dynamic learning environment. Tan Seen Vee, for instance, appreciated the UK and EU Politics course, where she could share her thoughts on contemporary topics such as the relevance of a bicameral political system or the future of China-EU cooperation and receive immediate feedback from visiting professors. Similarly, Lim Xinyun found the Financial Markets course highly beneficial for gaining a deeper understanding of global markets through insightful comparisons.
Ang Shao Heng conducting a presentation during the UK and EU Politics Course
Being in Oxford also allowed students to travel widely across the United Kingdom and Europe, providing eye-opening experiences and a deeper understanding of British and European cultures. Chen Chaohan embraced the immersive experience in the UK, indulging in its rich culture and heritage. Whether attending classes in Oxford, marvelling at the scenic Seven Sisters Cliff in Brighton, or exploring the captivating town of York, these experiences sparked profound reflections on the China-UK relationship and have left a lasting impact on her. Another student, Xu Dawei's stay in Oxford provided him with a unique "third-party" perspective on China and a more holistic understanding of the world observed through interdisciplinary and cross-cultural lenses. Absorbed by British culture and history, his visit to the renowned British Museum offered him invaluable insights into modern Chinese history, and such experiences prompted deeper introspection and contemplation on the intricate dynamics of international relations.
Class photograph for the undergraduate program
The successful completion of the international finance program equips its students with a comprehensive understanding of the field, practical skills in quantitative research, and a global mindset. PHBS UK looks forward to welcoming future cohorts of undergraduates from even more diverse academic backgrounds to embark on their journey in finance at the Oxford campus.
By Hong Shaoheng
Edited by Annie Jin and Jonathan Pearson
