China University of Political Science and Law students reflect on time at King Hall

Yao Cai (left) and Danyao Chen

This spring semester, the UC Davis School of Law welcomed students from China University of Political Science and Law (CUPL), one of China’s best law schools and a longtime partner to UC Davis Law. These students joined the King Hall community on Jan. 2 and will be in Davis until March 20 to take part in a customized academic program.

CUPL student Yao Cai was excited to study abroad for the first time, at UC Davis, and to experience the class structure and academic environment of a law school in the United States.  Cai has been working on her graduation dissertation on government information disclosure and said she feels fortunate that UC Davis Law has provided a wealth of resources and material to supplement her dissertation.

“The U.S. is the leading country in government information disclosure,” she said. “Through the help of my professors and having access to the vast library of information, I have accomplished many goals I had going into the program, and it has been such an enriching experience.” She notes that “the staff is so warm-hearted, and they are eager to offer help in every aspect, from academics to our well-being. They work so hard to provide a great program, and plan interesting field trips during our few months here.” Her favorite field trip was a visit to Sacramento Superior Court, where students witnessed live criminal cases. “We sat in on a case where we heard a cross-examination,” ai remembered. “It felt surreal to be there in person.”

Cai has grown both personally and professionally through her international experience at UC Davis Law. She commends her professors for always inspiring her to work hard and be passionate about her studies.

CUPL student Danyao Chen was thrilled to study at UC Davis to further her academic pursuits in agricultural law and broaden her legal education. Chen made a study-abroad experience a priority because she believes that “legal systems learn from each other, and it is important to have foundational knowledge of how other countries perceive and execute the law.” Her time at UC Davis Law has been made truly memorable by the supportive staff and great friends she has encountered. Having never spent the Lunar New Year away from her family, Chen remarked that, “I thought I would feel lonely without my family to celebrate the Spring Festival. The staff was so thoughtful during this time, and we celebrated with cake and good company. It made me feel nostalgic and very grateful to have such caring people in my life.” Upon arrival, Chen was uncertain of her goals; however, now nearing the end of her time at UC Davis, she said, “This program has helped me discover my plans for the future by encouraging me to continue my legal education and pursue an LL.M. degree.”

For information about the International Law Programs, please visit law.ucdavis.edu/international or contact Kate Asche at internationallaw@ucdavis.edu or 530-752-6081.