Beyond comfort zone

This idea of pursuing genuine academic interests over prestige is also reflected in the choices of some independent-minded students.

One of them is 18-year-old Qian Xinyi, a Year 12 student at Ulink College of Shanghai. Her first step came in the summer of 2024, when she discovered the pre-college program at Sciences Po's Reims campus while doing her own college research online.

"I've always liked French culture, and when I saw this opportunity, I wanted to experience it for myself," she recalled.

The program was demanding, with readings across a diverse range of topics. Language barriers made it harder — English was used in class, but French dominated outside — yet the vibrant debates pushed her to reflect on her own learning methods. One memorable assignment paired her with a United States student to compare news reports from left- and right-leaning television stations.

"That exercise opened my eyes to how media reflects political culture and showed me how differently students from other countries approach critical thinking," said Qian.

Conversations with peers from different cultural backgrounds broadened her perspective, and after returning home, she found herself more confident in sharing her views, and clearer about her academic interests.

"European students were so active in class discussions — it pushed me to step out of my comfort zone," she said.

This summer, Qian continued her journey closer to home at the University of Hong Kong with two study programs. She enrolled in the Future Legal Professionals program to test her interest in legal studies and a social sciences program, where short courses in sociology, media and journalism opened new possibilities.

"I admired the university atmosphere, but realized law wasn't for me; and those two programs helped me narrow my focus and become more certain about majoring in social sciences," she said.

Qian believes the real value of these programs wasn't how many she attended, but the clarity and growth they gave her.

Currently, she is working on her university application essays, aiming for schools in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom, with sociology being her first choice as a major.

"They helped me clarify my academic goals, gain perspective from peers worldwide, and develop confidence navigating new environments," said Qian.

However, some short-term programs have superficial courses and focus mainly on resume-building, often with high tuition fees. With the rapid expansion of the short-term program market, Zhu advises families to research carefully before making applications.

"In our school, we maintain a wall display of 273 recommended summer programs — categorized by subject and constantly updated. Students can also talk to their college counselors, who evaluate their grades and goals before suggesting suitable programs. For those applying independently, checking information directly on official university websites is essential," said Zhu.

The 2025 China Overseas Study Development Report also notes that 42 percent of returnees accept that income doesn't match expenses, but "it's still worth it". "Self-improvement", "cultural experience", and "broadening horizons" are now key priorities for students and parents.