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PPE student Josh Lally is doing his degree with a year in China. Here he reflects on the experience.
Spending the past year living and studying in China has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. As part of my exchange year at XJTLU in Taicang, I immersed myself not only in academic challenges but also in the rich cultural, historical, and social fabric of Chinese life.
From celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival with hand-painted lanterns, visiting local temples to exploring Suzhou’s embroidery heritage, and even hiking the Great Wall, I’ve had the chance to understand the depth and diversity of Chinese culture firsthand, visiting 9 cities across 6 provinces, all with their own unique cultural history. Beijing and Harbin in particular revealed both China’s rich imperial history and Russian-Chinese cultural exchanges while celebrating Chinese New Year in the ice city of Harbin at -18°C!
Beyond travel, this year has been about people and growth. Forming close friendships with students from across the world, starting a football team, and engaging in traditional festivals opened my eyes to new ways of thinking and living. It’s reminded me how much we can learn by stepping outside our comfort zones.
Academically, I was especially proud to co-develop a business concept for an unmanned boat student diner—The Cozy Compass—as part of a university co-venture initiative. Our team’s work earned 2nd place in the presentation phase and later granted us the opportunity to move forward with the project alongside CrossOcean and XJTLU. Bringing an international dining and study space to life on campus was a powerful lesson in entrepreneurship, creativity, and collaboration.
Reflecting on this year, I’m incredibly grateful. Living abroad sharpened my adaptability, deepened my cultural awareness, and challenged me to grow both personally and professionally.
I return with a renewed sense of purpose, cross-cultural understanding, and confidence to take on future challenges.
If you're considering studying or working abroad: go! Seriously, do it. Like now. Really.
What are you still doing here… go!
Find out more about international opportunities for philosophy students at Liverpool here.
