Earlier this year, as part of the RCDS Language Exchange Program, Ms. Shang’s Upper School Chinese-Language Classes hosted students from Fudan Fuzhong, which is affiliated with Fudan University, in Shanghai, China. Completing the exchange, the Chinese students’ 2026 visit to Rye reciprocates the RCDS students’ trip to Fudan in the spring of 2025.

Upper School students were excited to reconnect eight Fudan Fuzhong students in Grades 10 to 12 and two chaperone teachers for a week of immersive learning and cultural exchange. Our Upper Schoolers were welcoming hosts, bringing the exchange students to their classes and immersing them in all aspects of life at RCDS and in the United States. 

In addition to experiencing a typical RCDS Upper School schedule—including classes across all disciplines, house, and Community Meetings— the Chinese exchange students enjoyed extracurriculars such as clubs, the Upper School Musical, Les Misérables, and Wildcat athletic games.

Evenings and community time were equally meaningful. RCDS host families organized a potluck dinner that brought everyone together, strengthening connections across cultures. The week concluded with a farewell Community Forum, where Fudan students joined host students in performing two songs for the community and extended a heartfelt invitation to visit Shanghai.

Thank you to our partners at Fudan Fuzhong and to our host families and students for facilitating a wonderful experience that highlighted the importance of global exchange and connection.

Learning comes to life when students connect across cultures. By living and learning together, students develop the perspective and confidence to engage meaningfully in a global world. We are excited to continue growing this opportunity and invite more students to be part of this journey ahead. 
–Joanne Shang, Upper School Chinese Teacher