Where inquiry meets inspiration: two weeks at Oxford

As part of its holistic education approach, Zhejiang University places great emphasis on cultivating students’ global competence and offers a wide range of opportunities for international exchange and learning.

During the winter break of my sophomore year, I was selected to join the “Oxford Prospects Programme,” a two-week academic visit to the University of Oxford.

I enrolled in the PPEL module (Philosophy, Politics, Economics, and Law), through which I attended 16 formal lectures and 6 workshops focusing on academic skills and interdisciplinary competencies.

In the philosophy module, we not only explored classical theories of ethics but also examined the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. This experience greatly broadened my perspective and enabled me to approach legal studies with a more open and interdisciplinary mindset, particularly regarding the intersection between digital technology and law. It also laid a solid foundation for my subsequent involvement in activities at the Law School’s Institute of Digital Rule of Law.

The modules on politics and economics focused on the challenges and potential reform directions of modern Western systems, using the Great Depression as a case study to examine the vital role of global cooperation in promoting economic development. By reflecting on both contemporary issues and historical lessons, I came to realize the indispensable importance of a stable international public and economic legal order for global stability and prosperity. This experience also deepened my understanding of the crucial role of my program—the International Rule of Law class—in cultivating legal professionals with a global perspective.

In the law module, we studied English contract law, and through comparative analysis, I gained a deeper understanding of the logic and distinct features of Chinese contract law. We also reviewed the historical development of British constitutionalism and examined the enduring influence of the Magna Carta in shaping the principles of the rule of law.

Coinciding with the Chinese New Year, we prepared festive decorations and small gifts to celebrate the occasion with our British classmates, sharing the warmth and unique charm of Chinese culture through this joyful exchange.

Although the study tour has come to an end, the spirit of “Seeking Truth and Pursuing Innovation,” together with a lifelong passion for learning, will continue to guide me and all ZJU students as we shine on our paths toward the future.