Glasgow College, UESTC

Academic & Career Journey Sharing

On March 6, an event titled 'Academic & Career Journey Sharing' took place at Glasgow College, UESTC, featuring Dr Ahmad Taha, a popular lecturer on the 'fly-in fly-out' teaching team from University of Glasgow. The event was organised by the new Thistle & Phoenix Society, a student society of Glasgow College, and the Watt Class, aiming to provide study abroad experience sharing to help students better plan their academic and career paths.

Combining his own study abroad experience, Dr. Ahmad gave an insightful explanation of various challenges that students may encounter during their overseas studies, including academic difficulties and cultural adaptation. He shared the confusion and struggles he faced when making decisions, his inner exploration, and how he eventually overcame these difficulties through proactive exploration, seeking help, and adjusting his mindset. Dr. Taha's authentic and inspiring story resonated deeply with the students present.

"Dr. Ahmad's experience made me realise that we must understand what we truly want inside, keep moving forward, and accumulate experience to achieve growth," said one participant.

Dr Taha is pictured above, sharing his journey with the students.

To enliven the atmosphere, the organisers prepared interactive games such as Pictionary and 'Drawing Dreams'. Students showcased their creativity and energy, not only relaxing but also strengthening mutual understanding. The entire event was filled with a lively and cheerful atmosphere, exactly in line with its aims.

As the inaugural event of the Thistle & Phoenix Society, 'Academic & Career Journey Sharing' was a particular success. It not only answered many questions about studying abroad and life overseas but also built a platform for cultural and social exchange and learning. Many students expressed that the event gave them a clearer understanding of their future academic and career development, along with stronger confidence.

Ms. Lang Hu, advisor to the Thistle & Phoenix Society and Glasgow College, UESTC's Student Support and Engagement Officer stated that similar events will be held in the future, with more fly-in fly-out  teachers from UofG invited to share their experiences and provide comprehensive support and services for students at Glasgow College, helping them set sail and pursue their dreams.

Special thanks go to the Watt Class of Glasgow College, UESTC for their strong support of the event.

Scottish Cultural Event

The second of the society's events was the 'Scottish Cultural Event' whch took place on the afternoon of 11th April at Chengdu campus, in the Jixia Lecture Hall.

On the agenda were:

• A short online video sharing lots of interesting and fun facts about Scotland, to interest the guests as they arrived
• A popular 'ice breaker' game - 'Two Truths and a Lie' - encouraging creativity, laughter, participation, and 'getting to know one another' while testing everyone's ability to convincingly lie!
• An interactive online Scottish quiz with questions prepared by Dr. Kathleen Menzies from UofG and with technical support from Thistle & Phoenix Society organiser Ms. Anlan Dong.
• A spirited singalong of the song 'I Wish I Was In Glasgow' witten by the world-famous Scottish comedian, actor, and icon, Sir Billy Connolly.

Having played a modern version of the song via an online video to let participants hear the tune and the lyrics as performed, it was time to take part! The students and guests were led by two amazingly talented student musicians. Zeyu Chang played the piano quite beautifully while Layao Bing sang better than many a professional (including the original singer), guiding everyone through the meaningful and bittersweet lyrics.

To conclude, came:

• A chance to sample some sweet and savoury treats from Scotland and the UK including shortbread, tablet, and English tea.
• The presentation of some prizes to those who had won the ice-breaker game and the quiz.

The event was overseen by Ms. Lang Hu with special guests including Glasgow College, UESTC's Executive Dean Professor David Young, Dr. Wasim Ahmad (Programme Director for EEE with Communications programme in Chengdu) and visiting administrative staff from Glasgow Mrs Lin Li (TNE Learning & Teaching Administrator) and Dr. Kathleen Menzies (TNE Operational Administrator).

Both Lin and Kathleen were "blown away" by the event - in particular, the organisational skills and insights of the society leaders, and the incredible, world-class student pianist and singer who had learned and made their own a particularly intricate song (even for those with English as a first language).

The success of both of the above events laid solid foundations for the future development of the Thistle & Phoenix Society. With the society's continuous efforts, the campus cultural life of Glasgow College, UESTC students is expected to become even more vibrant and diverse than it is already.

About Thistle & Phoenix Society

Founded during this winter break 2025, the Thistle & Phoenix Society is the first student organisation affiliated with the UK side of Glasgow College, UESTC. They are committed to providing a diverse communication platform that promotes the integration of academic, cultural, and career development.

Through lectures, workshops, and social events, they aim to build interactive bridges between students, professors, and industry experts, helping students broaden their horizons and enhance their abilities. They also offer more opportunities to experience British culture and strengthen ties with the University of Glasgow.

They warmly welcome everyone to participate in their events, get to know them better, and join them in embarking on a journey full of inspiration and growth.

A special mention must go to student organisers and soceity founding members Anlan Dong and Zihan Wang, whose energy and enthusiasm was easily matched by their superb organisational skills.

 

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First published: 6 June 2025