Discovering the programme 

While exploring placement options last year, I came across the JETSET Summer Programme on Queen’s website. What immediately stood out was its unique opportunity to explore subjects outside your degree area.

Although I study Business IT, I was drawn to the hands-on electrical engineering course hosted by Queen’s partner institution, the Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT). The application was quick and straightforward, and the generous funding made it even more attractive! Queen’s covers flights, accommodation, and programme fees, with only a small (sometimes waived) student contribution.

Getting Started

I received my acceptance in March, and after a few pre-departure briefings, I set off for Beijing in July with a group of other Queen's students.

Arriving in China was both exciting and challenging. Even though I had studied some Chinese beforehand, communication wasn’t always easy since many people don’t speak English. Thankfully, our classes were taught in English, and BIT volunteers were always on hand to help. For everything else, Google Translate became my best friend!

Immersing ourselves in Chinese culture

Living and Connecting

We stayed in shared two-person rooms. I was paired with a student from Russia, and although I was nervous at first about living with someone I’d never met, we quickly became close friends. Sharing stories each night became a routine that I truly miss now.

Friendships form naturally here. One day, while figuring out the metro to the city centre, I bumped into two other students from the programme. We decided to explore together - and just like that, new connections were made.

Exploring Culture and Innovation

The programme also gave us the chance to immerse ourselves in Chinese culture. Over four weeks, we visited some of Beijing’s most famous landmarks. Climbing the Great Wall in the middle of summer heat was tough but cheering each other on created a sense of community I’ll never forget.

At the Great Wall of China

At the same time, we witnessed China’s technology-driven lifestyle. From mobile payments to bike rentals, everything runs through your phone. A highlight was visiting Alibaba Cloud, where we gained insight into the country’s incredible innovation ecosystem.

For me, the summer had been about so much more than academics. It was about cultural exchange, personal growth, and building global connections. Meeting students from around the world, experiencing life in a new country, and stepping outside my comfort zone has truly been life changing.

If you’re looking for something extraordinary to do next summer, keep an eye out for the application opening. You won’t regret it!

For more details on the electrical engineering side of the programme, check out my video here.

Find out more

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Fioreinz Renata Sandjaja Business Information Technology  | Undergraduate student | Indonesia Hi! My name is Fioreinz, I’m from Indonesia. I’m currently in my placement year of studying Business Information Technology. I have a passion for travel and movies, so I’m always up for a good chat about new destinations or film recommendations! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions, need help, or just want to connect for a chat.