Under the warm glow of red lanterns, the gentle rustling of calligraphy brushes on rice paper intertwines with the crisp snipping of scissors cutting red paper, creating a festive atmosphere rich with tradition. Chinese culture found a home far from home in Qatar, where the Chinese Student Association (CSA) hosted a series of cultural events at Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q). For Chinese students, these activities evoke cherished childhood memories, while for international students, it’s an entirely new experience—one that goes beyond what they’ve seen in films and allows them to immerse themselves in Chinese culture.
Among the festivities, paper-cutting emerged as a crowd favorite. This centuries-old folk art, an essential part of Chinese New Year celebrations, brought students together around tables covered in red paper. Carefully wielding scissors, they crafted intricate designs—from delicate snowflakes to the auspicious 福 character. Yousef Al-Hammadi, a Qatari junior at NU-Q, was excited at being involved in this form of art.
“I had only seen Chinese paper-cutting in movies before, and I never thought I could make one myself,” he said. “It’s harder than I expected but incredibly rewarding!”
At another table, students dipped calligraphy brushes into black ink, concentrating on the flowing strokes of Chinese characters. More than just writing, calligraphy is an art that requires patience, precision, and balance. Tayama Rai, a sophomore from Nepal, described the experience as calming and immersive. “The process felt calming and focused,” she said. “My strokes aren’t smooth yet, but I really love this way of conveying blessings through handwritten words.”
Beyond the New Year festivities, CSA introduced students to other cultural traditions, with Tanghulu (candied fruit skewers) making and Chinese tea appreciation standing out as highlights.
For many Chinese students, Tanghulu is an irreplaceable childhood treat. The glossy sugar coating encasing hawthorn berries or strawberries delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a sweet and tangy burst of flavor. Many international students tasted it for the first time, with some even mistaking it for a delicacy from other cultures. Through this event, they discovered its origins in the Song Dynasty and its continued popularity as a winter street snack in China.
At the tea appreciation session, students gathered around a tea table, watching tea leaves unfurl in steaming water. More than just a drink, Chinese tea culture embodies patience, precision, and mindfulness. From controlling the water temperature to savoring each sip, every step reflects a deep respect for nature and tradition.
“Drinking tea isn’t just about quenching thirst—it’s about slowing down,” explained Yuli Qiang, a CSA member leading the demonstration. “Whether it’s the fresh aroma of Longjing or the deep richness of Pu’er, every tea carries its own story.”
At NU-Q, these cultural experiences go beyond observation—they foster cross-cultural exchange. For Chinese students, the events provide a sense of home in a foreign land. For international students, they offer a rare opportunity to engage with Chinese traditions firsthand.
Fan Wu, president of the NUQ Chinese Student Association, emphasized the significance of these gatherings. “We don’t just want people to observe—we want them to participate, to truly experience the beauty of Chinese culture,” Fan said. “Whether it’s New Year celebrations, tea ceremonies, or tanghulu, each carries a story passed down through generations.”
