Senior University kicks off new semester

By Chen Si.

Yichang’s Senior University welcomed nearly 6,000 senior students on September 8, marking the start of a new semester of study and campus life.

For this term, the university has established eight departments, 102 majors, and 343 classes. Courses include singing, instrumental music, Chinese opera, calligraphy, painting, and dance.

Specialized options such as violin, mobile AI application usage, practical English for seniors, and poetry appreciation provide students with an even broader range of choices.
 

Students learning to play electronic keyboard in a music class.

Photography classes are among the most popular. Instructors focus on core skills such as composition and framing. Students often photograph teaching demonstrations and practice techniques after class.

"I tried photography when I was young. After retiring, I have more time, so I decided to study it systematically here. I find it very meaningful to document life through the lens," said Zou Huachun, a student at the university.

Students learning to play pipa in a music class.

Thanks to its close connection to everyday life, photography has become one of the most in-demand courses. To meet this demand, the university has launched two dedicated programs: basic photography and portrait photography.

"Each class has about 50 students, with ages ranging from 40 to over 80. Photography is practical - it can be used for travel, family moments, and daily life," said Lü Fei, a photography instructor.

Students learning Tai Chi in a music class.

"I've been studying here for five years. This year, I enrolled in the Chinese poetry appreciation class. I've always loved literature, and now I can better appreciate the beauty and meaning of classical Chinese poetry," said Liao Yong, a student at the university.

Registration for the new semester at Yichang’s Senior University will remain open until October 31.

Ma Lin, Xu Hao, Li Lin, and Wang Jinyu contributed to this story.