1. Why go on the "Discover China" exchange?

The academic programs at Hawaii Tokai International College emphasize cross-cultural awareness and global citizenship. Studying in China will be an essential step towards attaining these goals. Your China experience will be challenging, stimulating, and enriching, and it will allow you to learn as much about yourself as you will about the Chinese language and culture.

After you return from China, you become part of an elite group of students highly sought after by graduate schools and prospective employers, especially multinational companies that prefer geographically mobile individuals who have demonstrated an ability to adapt to foreign environments.

2. What is the relationship between HTIC and Shenzhen University (SZU) in China?

Hawaii Tokai International College (HTIC) and Shenzhen University (SZU) work together to provide cross-cultural experiences for students. In July 2009, HTIC's International Programs department welcomed over 20 SZU students to HTIC to attend a special short-term educational program that included English language studies with classes on American and Hawaiian culture. HTIC is looking forward to sending its first students to SZU in 2010.

3. Are there any prerequisites that students have to satisfy before they can go to China? (What are the course requirements?)

All course requirements may be met at HTIC by taking courses offered during the Fall and Winter terms. Those who enroll in HTIC in the Fall take the "Freshman Experience" along with other incoming freshmen. If they have no Chinese language background, they must enroll in CHN 101 during the Spring term. Then, during the next term (Summer Session I), students must take CHN 102. In addition, during the Winter-Summer Session I terms, students must take at least two other East Asian-related courses. After completion of these courses, students become eligible to participate in the language program held at SZU from approximately September to early January (the equivalent of the Summer Session II and Fall terms at HTIC).

For those students who do not enter the College in the Fall, alternative arrangements may be made with regards to when the prerequisite courses may be taken.

4. Do students transfer their credits back to HTIC?

Yes. Students who successfully complete the Immersion Program receive between 6-9 HTIC credits from SZU depending on their placement. These credits are added to the 6 or more China-related credits already earned at HTIC (e.g., ART 180, HIST 209, HIST 210, REL 150) for a total of 15 credits that apply towards graduation from the Associate in Arts degree program.

5. How do students apply for this Program?

The "Discover China Program" is open to all HTIC students, current and future, who are non-native speakers of Chinese. The first step is to enroll in HTIC as a freshman in the Associate of Arts degree (Liberal Arts) program.

It is also possible for students of other junior or four-year colleges to participate in this exchange; however, an exchange arrangement must first be established between HTIC and the student's "home" college(s).

6. When is the Program application deadline?

For HTIC students to attend the one-term intensive SZU Chinese language program from September to January (the equivalent of HTIC's Summer Session II and Fall terms), applications must be submitted by March 31 of that year.

7. Where will students live in China during the Program?

Students will reside in the International Student's dormitory located near one of the lakes in the park-like green area of the SZU campus. Foreign students from as many as 66 different countries live in this dormitory. All rooms, single or double, come equipped with bed, air conditioner, desk, television, telephone, internet access, refrigerator, and balcony (lanai). The first floor has a laundry room.

8. What are the costs involved?

This is one of the most affordable overseas programs available to American students. Students registered as HTIC students will pay a one time tuition that is equivalent to HTIC's quarterly tuition (currrently at $3,150 in 2009-10) for the four-month term in China. Dormitory fees, airfare and daily living expenses are the responsibility of program participants.

9. Will HTIC arrange for any accommodation or student pass for the students? (student's visa, travel arrangement)

HTIC arranges for application for the SZU Language Program, and helps with obtaining the student's visa for China, support of the initial travel arrangements, etc.

10. I don't understand the Chinese language at all. Will I be able to understand and communicate in class?

The Chinese language classes 101 and 102 that students take at HTIC will provide students with basic language skills. Additional cultural preparation will be provided before students depart HTIC to begin the program at SZU.

11. Are there any medical concerns or requirements for this Program?

"Discover China" participants will be notified of certain medical requirements before departure. HTIC suggests that all participants submit a medical clearance form completed by his/her personal physician before departure.

Students may purchase travel medical insurance or confirm that international coverage is provided by their insurers, but HTIC will also arrange with Shenzhen University personnel for students to obtain Chines health insurance. Contact HTIC Student Services' staff for more information.

12. Who can students contact to get more detailed information?

For more information, please email to htic@tokai.edu.