On March 24, 2026, to establish a platform for in-depth exchange between Chinese and international students, comprehensively enhance the innovative thinking and practical abilities of international students, and assist them in understanding the local market while unlocking their entrepreneurial and creative potential, the International Education College meticulously planned and organized this Entrepreneurial Thinking Workshop for International Students. The workshop focused on the core areas of self-media operation, content creation, and brand marketing. Through engaging, hands-on interactive sessions, it enabled Chinese and international students to spark ideas through collaboration, enhance their skills through practice, and achieve the simultaneous advancement of cross-cultural communication and comprehensive capabilities.
(product marketing posters designed by international students during the event)
Focusing on New Media Entrepreneurship, Sharing International Perspectives and Practical Experience
Departing from traditional theoretical lecture formats, this workshop integrated current trends in the domestic consumer market and the development of the new media industry. It deconstructed the underlying logic of brand marketing and the key points for implementing entrepreneurial projects in clear, accessible language. Furthermore, it specifically addressed the cultural advantages and cross-border resource characteristics of international students, sharing suitable content creation directions, online marketing techniques, and low-cost entrepreneurial strategies. The content was tailored to practical needs, balancing professionalism with targeted relevance, effectively bridging the gap between theory and practice. Sirine Abdellaoui, an international student from Algeria, shared her reflections after the session: “I didn't have a good understanding of the domestic marketing model before. The speaker at this workshop explained things in great detail, from basic strategies to practical operations. They also thoughtfully considered the advantages we have as international students, helping us identify suitable entrepreneurial and operational directions. It really clarified things for me, and I gained a lot.” The international students present listened attentively throughout; many took notes proactively and asked enthusiastic questions on topics such as cross-border marketing and cultural adaptation. The speaker provided detailed answers, creating a lively interactive atmosphere conducive to learning.
Collaborative Hands-On Practice: Co-creating Coffee Brand Marketing Posters
Following the theoretical segment, the workshop moved to its core practical activity with mixed groups of Chinese and international students collaborated to complete a coffee brand marketing poster design task. The workshop facilitator encouraged participants to leverage their unique cultural backgrounds, creative ideas, and marketing logic to independently conceptualize, design, and refine their posters. Each group quickly divided tasks and worked closely together, incorporating cultural elements from their home countries and international marketing approaches. The atmosphere was characterized by active discussion and mutual inspiration. Batmunkh Bolorsuvd, an international student from Mongolia, remarked, “Working together in a team was especially interesting. Our ways of thinking are different, which made us complement each other well. From deciding on the design theme to the layout, we discussed everything together. I not only learned about marketing poster design but also experienced the joy of teamwork.”
(Photo taken at the event)
Presentations and Exchange: Cultivating Presentation and Innovation Skills
After thorough group collaboration, discussion, and finalization of their designs, each group took turns presenting their finished posters. They provided detailed explanations of their design concepts, marketing highlights, and creative inspiration, confidently articulating their understanding of brand marketing and entrepreneurial thinking. During the presentations, international students shared their ideas openly and responded to questions with composure, showcasing the innovative spirit and positive demeanor of contemporary youth. The workshop facilitator offered comments on each group's work, acknowledging their innovative highlights and providing suggestions for optimization to help the students further refine their ideas and plans.
(Group Photo at the Event)
Building an Exchange Platform, Supporting the Mutual Growth of Chinese and International Students
This Entrepreneurial Thinking Workshop utilized exchange to transcend cultural barriers and practice to solidify foundational skills. It not only provided international students with a high-quality platform to understand the Chinese market and enhance their entrepreneurial and innovative capabilities but also built a bridge for mutual learning and shared progress between Chinese and international students. Participating international students expressed that the event was practical and innovative, allowing them to acquire useful skills in self-media operation and brand marketing, while also making like-minded friends, broadening their international perspectives, and gaining a clearer vision for their future entrepreneurial endeavors and career development. Looking ahead, the International Education College will continue to organize various distinctive exchange and practice activities, focusing on the growth and development needs of international students, enriching educational formats, deepening their understanding of China's development, and assisting them in enhancing their comprehensive qualities to achieve holistic development, thereby solidifying the foundation of the “Shangmao Silk Road” brand.
Written by: Zhang Ruyi
Photographer: Zhang Ruyi
Reviewer: Chen Wei
