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Wananga landing
Wananga landing
Student story

Zixi Chen

31 July 2025

Cultural exchange and aesthetic integration in the medieval Japanese tea ceremony

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鈥淢y research explores how medieval Japanese tea practitioners absorbed and reinterpreted Chinese artistic and literary elements鈥攍ike poetry, calligraphy, and ceramics鈥攊nto their own aesthetic ideals, ceremonies, and spaces.鈥

Choosing UC for research
My choice was driven by the opportunity to work with my supervisor, whose expertise in Japanese aesthetics is quite rare, especially in the Western academic world. Once I discovered his profile, I didn鈥檛 hesitate to get in touch鈥攁nd I鈥檓 so glad I did.

Supervisory support
The greatest support I鈥檝e received is from my supervisor Professor Richard Bullen. We meet regularly to discuss my research progress, and he provides detailed feedback on my writing. He鈥檚 encouraging, respectful of my ideas, and always looking for ways to help me grow as a researcher. I鈥檓 especially grateful that he actively helps me find opportunities to engage with the academic community.

Scholarship support
I received a scholarship that fully covers my tuition for three years. It鈥檚 specifically for students in Art History, Art Theory, and Fine Arts, and it has allowed me to focus entirely on my research without financial stress.

Life as an international student in New Zealand
Coming from a large, busy city in China, I find Christchurch peaceful and inspiring. The friendly people, beautiful natural scenery, and creative academic community make it the perfect environment to focus on research and personal development.

Standout experiences at UC
There鈥檚 not just one highlight鈥攅very moment here has been meaningful. I鈥檝e taken part in leadership and professional development programmes like the Global Leaders Programme, and I鈥檝e really enjoyed engaging in the diverse student life on campus.

Support from the Graduate School
The UC Graduate School has been a great help. Their workshops are practical and well-timed for different stages of the research journey. I also find the one-on-one catchups with research advisors really useful.

UC library resources
The library has been one of my favourite parts of UC. My research involves extensive reading and analysis, and I can always find the materials I need鈥攚hether through the physical collections or the online services.

Advice to future research students
Studying at UC and living in Christchurch will absolutely be one of the most beautiful experiences of your life. I鈥檝e found a welcoming academic environment and a lifestyle that supports deep focus and creativity.

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