This summer, United College arranged a group of 57 students to attend the summer school of Utrecht University, the Netherlands under the College GOAL programme. Students enrolled in four different courses: European Cultures and Identities, European Politics and Economy, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Essentials of Coaching, running between 6 and 27 July 2025. 

Each course lasted two weeks and combined interactive classroom learning with field trips. For example, students enrolled in European Cultures and Identities visited Hague and Leiden, where they toured the Mauritshuis and the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden under the guidance of local instructors. One medical student shared her appreciation for Rembrandt’s The Anatomy Lesson of Dr Nicolaes Tulp, noting:

“How the painting not only depicts a historical anatomy lesson but also reflects the intellectual spirit of the Enlightenment.”

Rembrandt’s The Anatomy Lesson of Dr Nicolaes Tulp.

The Essentials of Coaching course marked the first-ever collaboration between United College and Utrecht University in this field. In this context, “coaching” refers to supporting individuals in achieving personal and professional goals. The course focused on key concepts such as non-violent communication, the 3R principle, self-awareness and the distinction between empathy and compassion. Delivered in a highly interactive format, students engaged in role playing and had in-depth discussions with instructors.

Group Photo of the class of Essentials of Coaching.

One participant from the Department of Chinese Language and Literature reflected on the cultural contrast between European coaching principles and traditional Chinese values:

“Our culture often emphasises harmony and respect, which prompted significant introspection. Our society always prioritises collective harmony and hierarchical respect while coaching encourages self-discovery through questioning. This experience helped me appreciate both models and explore how coaching might take root within our cultural context.”

United College extends its heartfelt thanks to Dr Kenneth Lee from the Department of Marketing and Professor Randolph C H Chan from the Department of Social Work, who served as honorary programme advisors. Their guidance and support greatly enriched the students’ overseas learning experience.