On 9 May, final year 2+2 students from Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) gathered for a night of celebration, memories, and recognition at the first annual 2+2 Graduation Ball.
Established in 2006, Xi’an Jiaotong Liverpool University (XJTLU), delivers University of Liverpool degrees transnationally and offers the opportunity for students to articulate to Liverpool, either via a 2+2 or a 2+1+1 route. University of Liverpool students also have the opportunity to study at XJTLU through a flagship ‘Year in China’ programme as part of their degree.
This Graduation Ball was hosted by the University of Liverpool International Relations team. The event honoured graduating students from the 2+2 programme—an international partnership where students complete their first two years in XJTLU and final two years in Liverpool.
The evening kicked off with a warm welcome from Professor Gavin Brown, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education at the University of Liverpool. In his opening speech, Professor Brown congratulated the students on their achievements and highlighted the strong academic and cultural ties between the two institutions. He also joined the graduates for a commemorative group photo, capturing the shared pride and excitement of the evening.
Professor Gavin Brown shared: During your time in Liverpool, we hope that in addition to the invaluable lessons learned in the lectures, seminars and laboratories of your academic programme, you have explored a new culture, travelled to new places, made new friends and expanded your horizons.
Dressed in elegant formalwear, students enjoyed a lively programme that included a fun quiz, live musical performances, and a variety of interactive activities. The Ball provided a meaningful space for students to reflect on their journeys, celebrate friendships, and mark the transition from student life to the next chapter.
One of the 2+2 graduate Zihan Yu has reflected on his time at Liverpool: If I were to sum up the past two years in one sentence, it would be: we are much braver than we ever imagined. We came here on our own, navigating unfamiliar cultures and languages, and gradually built our own way of life. There were moments of frustration along the way, but looking back, we have been getting better all along.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025 from XJTLU and the University of Liverpool!