IMPA Tech students begin their exchange semester in China

The arrival of the 12 IMPA Tech students in China represents more than just the start of a semester abroad. For Rafael Beraldo, IMPA Tech’s Skills Development Manager, the experience marks an important step in the process of internationalizing the undergraduate program and allows students to get a firsthand look at one of the country’s leading academic environments.

“Peking University is one of China’s leading universities. It attracts the country’s best students, so it’s a great privilege for our undergraduates. I’m sure they’ll learn a lot. It’s a joy to see the results of our internationalization efforts and to understand in practice how we can make the exchange program work as effectively as possible,” he said.

Split between Beihang University (BUAA) and Peking University (PKU), the students will stay in China for one semester, taking courses and participating in academic activities at both universities.

At Beihang University, the students were welcomed by the university community on Sunday (30). During the semester’s opening ceremony, undergraduate student Lucas Bastos spoke about the importance of promoting integration and cooperation between the mathematical cultures of the two countries. The students also received gifts and had the opportunity to meet students from different parts of the world.

On Wednesday (2), the group completed their academic registration, taking another step forward in preparing for the start of classes. For Bianca Zavadisk, the first few days were also marked by her discoveries about the city and the university environment.

“This is a huge place, with a big crowd, but everything is well-organized. The architecture is impressive, with gigantic buildings, and traffic that seems chaotic but actually works. The university is really interesting, with aircraft on display and a cool aeronautics program. We’ve already completed our academic registration, and things are falling into place. I’m excited to start classes, meet the professors, and see what the Chinese study culture is like,” she said.

As for the students at Peking University, the semester’s opening ceremony took place last Monday (the 31st). During their first few days, they began to familiarize themselves with the campus, the university’s facilities, and the academic routine.

Arthur Vasconcelos highlighted the institution’s prestige and the warm welcome he has received since his arrival. “I’m very excited to be here. I feel like this is a place where Chinese people want to be. The people are very welcoming, and I’m looking forward to getting to know all the departments. I want to explore and experience everything within my reach,” he said.

Vitor Hugo de Souza shared his plans for his stay. “I’m really looking forward to and excited about finally starting classes, meeting the professors, and experiencing the cultural and academic differences here in China. I want to balance my rigorous study routine with a little sightseeing, making the most of this experience,” he added. Among the courses he plans to take are Mathematical Logic and Algebra II.

Exchange made possible by partners

The program was made possible thanks to sponsorship from the BRAVA Foundation, the Estudar Foundation, and Stone, all of which are IMPA Tech partners. This investment covered the students’ travel and living expenses. Accommodations are provided free of charge by the Chinese universities.

Mobility is an integral part of IMPA Tech’s initiative to broaden students’ academic education through exposure to different environments for teaching, research, and innovation. The partnership also promotes exchange in the opposite direction: in August, six students from the School of Mathematical Sciences at Beihang University began a semester at IMPA Tech.

With the first week complete, the 12 Brazilian undergraduate students are set to begin their academic routine in China. They are scheduled to return to Rio de Janeiro in January 2027.