On August 24, 2026, Hagerty Hall 359 was filled with energy and excitement as the Chinese Program hosted its very first Chinese Open House. The event was a resounding success, bringing together approximately 30 undergraduate students, along with nearly 20 faculty members and graduate students, for an afternoon of learning, connection, and cultural exploration.
 

Students had the opportunity to visit nine different stations and connect with representatives from across the Chinese Program and the broader East Asian community. The stations featured the Chinese scholarship opportunities, Chinese Program’s academic advisor, representatives from the East Asian Studies Center, and a variety of student organizations and cultural groups, including DEALL Undergraduate Student Organization, Dragon Phoenix Wushu Club, and Oriental Dance Troupe.
 

The Open House offered students much more than information about courses, programs, and upcoming activities. They could also experience Chinese language and culture firsthand through a wide range of interactive activities, including tea tasting, Chinese calligraphy, and live performances. These hands-on experiences gave students a chance to explore different aspects of Chinese culture while connecting with the people and communities that make the program vibrant.
 

For many students, including freshmen and other undergraduates who are just beginning to explore their academic interests, the Open House provided an opportunity to discover the many possibilities available through the Chinese Program and East Asian studies at Ohio State.
 

As our first Chinese Open House, the event was an exciting milestone for the program. The enthusiastic participation, lively conversations, and smiling faces throughout the afternoon made it clear that there is tremendous interest in Chinese language, culture, and community. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this inaugural event such a success, and we look forward to building on this momentum in the semesters ahead!