An event for overseas students was held at Nantong High School, Chongchuan district, Nantong, on July 13, aiming to support students from their departure until they return, while encouraging them to pursue careers in the district.

An event for overseas students was held at Nantong High School, Chongchuan district. [Photo/Nantongfabu]

The more than 200 attendees included current overseas students, prospective students, and returned students.

The event set up different activities for them in three key stages.

Students preparing to go abroad are set to join volunteer projects in business districts and communities, gaining early insight into local development.

For those already studying abroad but currently home for the summer break, a mentoring program has been designed to organize visits for themto local companies run by other returnees.

An overseas alumni association has also been established at the event to foster more effective networking.

In addition, returning graduates were given access to a newly created local Western Returned Scholars Association and five mentors from biological medicine, integrated circuits, and smart manufacturing, who will offer them startup guidance.

Yan Xinrui, a Chongchuan native studying at the College-Conservatory of Music, University of Cincinnati, said the main obstacle for returnees is a lack of local connections. However, the mentoring program helps them settle in, she noted. Yan said she hopes to return to Chongchuan later for a career in the arts.