Hangzhou Session

FAQ

What are the arrival and departure dates?

The session dates are published here. This year, the course itself runs June 10 - July 12, 2019. Check-in is Thursday, June 6, 10 am-8pm. Departures can be as soon as Saturday, July 13, and must be by Friday, June 19 (for the return of the optional post-course tour group). The check-in and check-out dates are pretty rigid. If you need to arrive earlier or depart later, you will need to find alternative accommodations.

How is the weather in Hangzhou?

Typically the weather in June is very hot and humid. It also rains very frequently. However most buildings run the A/C at a low temperature. You might need a light jacket to be comfortable inside a building.

Do I need to bring a computer?

It is highly recommended. Make sure that prior to departure, you install eduroam and the UW Madison VPN

Do I need to bring any textbooks?

No. Publications such as Perry's Manual or CRC are available online through the UW library site which is accessible from China. The lab manual is available online. You should bring a notebook, calculator, and other supplies.

Will I have WiFi access on my computer or phone?

The Zhejiang University is a participant of the eduroam Consortium. You can access the eduroam network within the university using your UW Madison Credentials. Information on how to set up your computer or phone can be found here. Access at the student residence is through the local network. Using an Android phone in China might be tricky because the Google Play store is not accessible. Make sure that you install all the apps that you might need before departure.

Will my cell phone work in China?

It depends. Most US providers have plans that give service overseas. Some are more expensive than others. Check with your own provider. If the plans offered don't work for you, you may place calls through WiFi using one of many apps available.

Can I use my apps in China?

Maybe. Google and Facebook sites and apps (including Gmail, Google Docs, Instagram, WhatsApp). among many others, are blocked by the Chinese Government Firewall. The only way to access those sites is through a VPN tunnel. Make sure that you install the VPN in your computer and phone. You could also use government authorized apps such as WeChat.

May I have my own room at the dorm?

Generally, no. All accommodations are based on double occupancy. Only if there is an odd number of students of a given gender, one or two students may have a single room. The course director will have the final decision on this.

May I choose my lab partner and roommate?

You may express your preference using the following links for Lab Partner or Roommate. Your preference will be noted and generally honored, unless there are additional considerations. The final decision is made by the course director