This blog is edited from a speech given by Xiaoxiao at the All Party Parliamentary Group for International students on Monday 18th November 2024, to mark International Students Day 2024.
I'm originally from China, with two master's degrees and a PhD under my belt - one in musicology from Durham, one in applied psychology from Leeds, and my PhD from Liverpool in Music Psychology. Just like how everyone of these experiences in different places around the England have influenced me, international students are influencing and enriching British society.
From Silk Road to Penny Lane: A Cultural Exchange
When I first arrived in the UK in 2013, I couldn't have imagined the profound impact this journey would have on my life and the lives of those around me. From Durham to Manchester, Leeds to Harrogate, and finally Liverpool – I've been on quite the British tour! Like many international students, I came here with dreams of academic achievement, but I discovered so much more – a chance to contribute, to grow, and to bridge cultures in ways I never thought possible.
My journey began in the classroom, not just as a student, but also as a teacher. I've had the privilege of introducing Mandarin Chinese, Chinese music & arts to university students, local grammar schools, and colleges across these cities. It's been incredibly rewarding to witness the growing interest in Chinese culture among my students.
One day, a young student named Sarah approached me after class, eyes shining with excitement. "Miss," she said, "I never thought I'd be able to speak Chinese, but now I'm dreaming of studying in Beijing!" This moment crystallized for me the power of cultural exchange – we weren't just learning words; we were building bridges between nations. I'm proud to say that Sarah has since completed her degree in Beijing and is now pursuing a master’s in Chinese studies. It's moments like these that make me realize the true impact of international education.
From Cavern Club to Forbidden City: Bridging Worlds Through Melody and Heritage
As I reflect on this journey, I'm reminded of the words of Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson. She once said, ‘What better place to study science than the land of Charles Darwin, of Ada Lovelace and Alan Turing? What better place to study English than the land of William Shakespeare, the Bronte sisters and Zadie Smith? And what better place to study music than the land of John Lennon, Stormzy and Adele?’
I couldn't agree more. But I'd add that it's also the perfect place to create your own unique melody in the grand symphony of life.
As a musician, I never imagined that studying in the land of The Beatles would lead me to meet John Lennon's family and share my culture with them. One of my proudest moments was performing at the fundraising concert for the new Yoko Ono Lennon Centre in Liverpool. This state-of-the-art facility houses the Tung Auditorium – a symbol of cultural exchange and the lasting impact of international education.
As I stood on stage in the Tung Auditorium, named after a Hong Kong family who’ve left a lasting legacy, I was deeply moved. The Tung family - University of Liverpool alumni and generous benefactors - didn’t just donate this building but also set up a scholarship for students from China to study in Liverpool. The Tung Auditorium isn’t just a concert hall; it’s a symbol of cultural exchange, where East meets West, and Chinese melodies blend with the iconic sounds of The Beatles. I couldn't help but marvel at the beautiful tapestry of cultural exchange I was now a part of.
My interactions with Sean Lennon have been truly eye-opening. We've formed a friendship that continues to this day, occasionally exchanging ideas about artistry and music on social media. Our conversations have reinforced the universal power of music to connect people across cultures and generations. It's like we're all part of one giant, global orchestra, each bringing our unique instrument to create a beautiful harmony.
From cultural exchange to community impact: my journey to the West and beyond
In Chinese literature, there's a famous tale called "Journey to the West" (西游记). Like many international students in the UK, my adventure has been my own "Journey to the West" - filled with challenges, discoveries, and transformative experiences.
As a Doctor of Music Psychology, I’ve witnessed the incredible power of music to awaken the human spirit. For those living with dementia or from marginalized communities, music has the unique ability to unlock memories and bring people back to life in ways that words or medicine alone simply cannot.
This understanding led me to volunteer with Playlist for Life, a charity that uses music to help those with dementia. I’ve translated their materials into Chinese and curated playlists for Chinese communities in the UK, creating a musical bridge between cultures and expanding the reach of this life-changing work.
I’ve also had the privilege of serving as a governor for the NHS Mersey Care Foundation Trust, working with mental health professionals and service users to co-produce accessible services. In addition, I collaborate with leading research institutions on new treatments for mood disorders – work that reflects the richness and diversity of the people we serve, much like a Scouse stew diverse yet wonderfully combined.
Through these experiences, I’ve seen that music isn’t just a tool for individual enjoyment or leisure; it’s a tool for society. It can help reduce hospital admissions, ease the burden on our NHS, and improve the quality of life across the UK. Music brings people together, helps us connect across cultures, and offers a new way to heal. It’s a powerful reminder that what we do today can have a lasting, positive impact on the world around us.
When I think about the impact of my work, I don’t just see it in research or statistics. I see it in the faces of those whose lives have been touched. And that, to me, is what makes it all worthwhile. It all started as an international student, eager to learn and grow. And now, I’m proud to say that the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained have allowed me to contribute back – to innovate, to help, and to make a difference. That’s the true power of international education: it’s not just about what we learn, but about how we use that knowledge to give back to the world around us.
The Ripple Effect: From Merseyside to the Middle Kingdom
My story is just one among thousands. Across the UK, international students are making real contributions – in research labs, community centres, creative industries, and beyond. We bring fresh perspectives, diverse skills, and a genuine desire to give back to the communities that have welcomed us. We're not just here for the fish 'n' chips or the Scouse stew, you know! (Though, between you and me, they are pretty fantastic.)
Our impact goes far beyond our time as students. We return home or settle here as ambassadors for international understanding. We forge business connections, foster diplomatic ties, and inspire the next generation of global citizens. We are like cultural bees, spreading ideas and innovations across continents.
I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had in the UK, but I’m also aware of the challenges many international students face. I’m privileged to work with UKCISA to amplify our voices and shape policies through our lived experiences.
Supporting international students is not just an investment in education; it’s an investment in a more connected, compassionate, and innovative future. We’re not just economic assets; we are the leading voices in our fields. We want to share our culture and contributions, and we love being part of UK society.
In closing, I ask you to see international students not just as a global talent pool contributing nearly £42 billion to the UK economy, but as individuals with dreams, aspirations, and the potential to create lasting change. Let’s make the UK a welcoming home for international students, fostering a global community of learning, innovation, and cultural exchange. After all, in the grand symphony of education, we’re all playing our part – and together, we’re creating something extraordinary.
Xiaoxiao has a Doctorate in Music Psychology from the University of Liverpool. As a student ambassador and member of the EDI committee at her university, Xiaoxiao has been devoted to student experience – in particular, understanding and meeting the needs of international students. Outside of her research, she is also an accomplished Chinese zither performer who has won many awards and performed in music halls across the UK.
