Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) held 57 small-group academic activities for freshmen from Sept 2 to 4, giving new students an early introduction to university learning through experiments, demonstrations and hands-on practice.

The activities covered agriculture, engineering, natural sciences, humanities and social sciences and took place in laboratories and practical training facilities across campus.

At the College of Public Administration, students interacted with a quadruped robot and learned about drone technology. Other activities introduced robotics, 3D printing and computer hardware, while students also operated smart vehicles in practical challenges.

At the College of Life Science & Technology, freshmen learned about brewing before observing processes including drying, milling, mashing and fermentation. Laboratory sessions such as chemical experiments, in which metal salts form plant-like structures in sodium silicate solution, allowed students to see scientific principles in action.

The program also included activities on seed science, tea and floral art, aquascaping, virtual reality, debate and cross-cultural exchange. A French food and wine culture session introduced wine regions, labels and related French vocabulary.

A quadruped robot is operated by participants as part of a hands-on technology activity. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]

Students try flower arranging in a floral art session. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]

Students create a chemical garden using test tubes and beakers during a creative chemistry activity. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]