VOA’s Mandarin Service collected stories and testimonials of Chinese students in the United States in order to give students in China a unique window into life at U.S. colleges. VOA journalists visited 31 different campuses across the country and reported on higher education opportunities in programming that was very appealing to younger Chinese audiences. They visited many college environments for this series, from the most prestigious private schools and research institutions to public universities.

Education in the United States is the goal of many Chinese students and their parents.  At present, more than 350,000 Chinese students are enrolled in U.S. universities and colleges, comprising about 33 percent of the foreign student population.

Chinese students currently on U.S. campuses offered their unique perspective on their experiences in Facebook Live sessions that attracted more than 270,000 viewers on the Mandarin Service’s website and social media platforms.

VOA’s journalists also conducted one-on-one interviews with U.S. academic admission officers who provided insights on the application process for international students.  These interviews generated tens of thousands of views on Facebook and Youtube. Television and radio packages also addressed challenging issues for the students, including adjusting to life in America, academic and security concerns, and communicating with family and friends back home.