Montana Tech students join programs in China for the first time led by Dr. Shihua Brazill

Students visited The National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest. 

Dr. Shihua Brazill, faculty member in the Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences (IAS) program at Montana Technological University, advanced global learning opportunities for Montana students by leading two back-to-back summer study abroad programs in China through the Max S. Baucus Institute. Personally recommended by former U.S. Senator and Ambassador Max Baucus to take on this service role, she led the programs to offer students transformative academic and cultural experiences.

Students learned to embrace Chinese culture through a variety of art workshops during their stay. They enjoyed woodblock printing, incense art, calligraphy, and tea art. They also watched a performance of a traditional tea art ceremony.

Each of the two 2025 Baucus Institute funded programs spanned one month and served a total of 40 students from four Montana universities: Montana Tech, the University of Montana, Montana State University, and Montana State University Billings. One program focused on language and cultural immersion, while the second centered on environmental sustainability and field research. Together, they fostered intercultural dialogue, hands-on learning, and global awareness for Montana students.

Students enjoyed learning the art of Wushu, an ancient Chinese martial art that has evolved into a modern sport. At the end of their workshop, they were grateful to unwind with an additional lesson in Tai Chi.

Dr. Brazill supported the students every step throughout the process, including recruitment and selection, and pre-departure orientations on cultural humility, safety, and strategies for cross-cultural communication. In China, Dr. Brazill served as the primary liaison between students, Chinese universities, and the Baucus Institute. She led the programs from logistics to supporting student health and well-being, all while ensuring academic rigor and rich cultural engagement. This year marked the first time Montana Tech students participated in the China Study Abroad Fellows Programs. Through outreach and mentorship, Dr. Brazill secured equal representation for Montana Tech alongside students from UM and MSU, significantly raising Montana Tech’s global visibility.

Dr. Shihua Brazill speaking at the opening ceremony.

The participating Montana Tech students included Dylan Baldwin, Karmen Hess, Mikayla Iten, Mark Kubica, Dashiell McGee, Anthony Ray, Remington Yoder, and Millie Xing.

In reflecting on their China experience, students emphasized both the collaborative spirit of the group and the thoughtful leadership of Dr. Brazill. From cultural immersion to academic exploration, their words capture how the program fostered growth, connection, and unforgettable memories.

Students had engaging classes on artificial intelligence (AI), governance, language, and clean energy.

“When I attended the meeting for interested participants organized by Dr. Brazill, I learned it would focus on sustainable energy, battery production, and Chinese culture,” Yoger said. “My enthusiasm was ignited, and I feel fortunate to be standing in China, 10,600 kilometers away from home.”

“I’m grateful for the Mandarin lessons especially, and for all of the cultural experiences/learning we got to have!” Iten said.

“I really enjoyed getting out of my comfort zone and experiencing the cultural differences between China and the USA,” McGee said.

“I think the trip has taught me that life is about being people, and that things are not set in stone. Connections matter more than being perfect,” Baldwin said.

Ray summarized the total experience.

“I have never been so excited about something, and Dr. Brazill made this incredible opportunity very accessible to everyone,” he said. “Without her as my professor, I wouldn’t have even known about the trip. I’m lucky that I took her classes because they taught me valuable knowledge about communicating with different cultures while also offering me opportunities to go out and actually experience these cultures.”

The students, many of whom have never travelled internationally, experienced China's culture, language, policies, and people firsthand. This was an important opportunity for Montana Tech students to see for themselves what life in China is like today. If you are interested in applying for the programs next year, please contact Dr. Brazill at sbrazill@mtech.edu.

Dr. Shihua Brazill speaking and handing out certificates to students at the closing ceremony.