At the School of Business at Renmin University of China (RUC), one classroom feels like a miniature “global village.” Thirty-four students from China, Italy, and the United States come together in the inaugural cohort of the America-China-Europe (ACE) Triple Bachelor’s Degree Program in Management, where diverse perspectives and cultures collide in a unique, globally integrated academic experience.

Jointly launched by RUC, LUISS University in Italy, and George Washington University in the United States, the ACE program offers students a rare opportunity: three top universities, three continents, and three degrees—all in one program.

Over four years, students begin their first year at their home institutions, then spend the second through fourth years studying together in Rome, Beijing, and Washington, D.C. Upon graduation, they earn a Bachelor of Management from RUC, a Bachelor of Business Administration from LUISS, and a Bachelor of Business or International Business from GWU.

A Global Journey Through Business and Culture

As globalization propels more Chinese companies onto the world stage, the demand for internationally minded, cross-culturally fluent management talent is greater than ever. ACE students gain firsthand exposure to the capitals of three major global economies, gaining insight into international business dynamics.

In China, courses like “Understanding China” take students beyond the classroom and into real-world business contexts. Visits to places like Yiwu and Wuzhen give students an up-close look at China’s transformation. “These experiences helped us explore and understand the real China,” said a student from Italy. “Studying across three cultural environments and exchanging ideas with classmates who think and express themselves differently is fascinating.”

In Italy and the U.S., students take courses such as “Doing Business in Europe,” “U.S. Business in the World Economy,” “International Law,” and “International Politics.” These classes help them understand how cultural, legal, and political factors shape global commerce. Chinese student Lai Yalin observed that while courses in Italy focus on the societal and legal aspects of business operations, courses in China emphasize practical skills to enhance corporate efficiency.

Starting in their second year, ACE students take several courses alongside participants in the Global BBA program. Faculty intentionally assign students from different countries to the same teams to maximize cross-cultural learning. “Students from Pakistan and Azerbaijan were especially active in class discussions,” recalled Chinese student Duan Junwei. “This openness encouraged all of us to speak up more and fostered a truly inclusive classroom environment.”

While studying in Rome, Chinese student Gao Hanlin initiated a practical project, partnering with LUISS University and Fiumicino Airport to launch a shared massage chair service—his first real-world business plan brought to life. “This hands-on experience gave me new insight into how the business world works,” he said.

“Through these experiences, I’ve come to view business, culture, and society from multiple angles,” said Chinese student Xu Yunhao. “Not only has my academic perspective broadened, but my understanding of the challenges in global business has also deepened.”

Cultural Fusion in Everyday Life

Cultural diversity in the ACE program brings both challenges and incredible opportunities for connection. While in Italy, students organized a culinary exchange, each preparing their home country’s favorite dishes for a shared meal in the dormitory courtyard. Chinese spicy hot pot, Italian desserts, and American pizza made for a delicious and heartwarming cultural celebration.

In Beijing, students embraced the city’s historical depth and modern vibrancy by exploring neighborhoods on “city walks.” “When I first arrived, I didn’t understand the language or environment,” said a student from the U.S. “But the faculty were so welcoming and helped me adjust. I even joined the tennis team. Exploring Beijing has become a fun and rewarding journey.”

Today, foreign students are comfortably navigating local life—using e-payments, buying mooncakes online for the Mid-Autumn Festival, and even donning mascot costumes for parties.

“There are moments that make a foreign place feel like home,” said Lai Yalin. “Last autumn in Rome, I noticed how the falling yellow leaves looked just like those in Beijing.” Gao Hanlin added, “Sometimes cultural differences challenge us to reflect and adapt, but discovering shared beauty across cultures is a rare and wonderful part of this journey.”

A New Model for Global Education

As the world’s first management bachelor’s program to span Asia, Europe, and North America, the ACE program has gained widespread recognition in its first two years.

During a recent meeting with LUISS Deputy Rector Antonio Majocchi and GWU Deputy Provost Teresa Murphy, RUC Chair of the University Council Zhang Donggang noted, “Italy and the U.S. are important partners for China. This program exemplifies how trilateral cooperation can foster global business leaders and support a shared future for humanity.”

In May 2024, China’s Ambassador to Italy, Jia Guide, met with ACE students at LUISS and encouraged them to appreciate China’s philosophy of harmony and to work together to build a more connected world.

In November 2024, the China-Italy University Presidents Dialogue was held in Beijing under the theme “Fostering Mutual Learning of Civilizations and Cultivating Outstanding Talent.” Another Italian student told China Media Group, “I love China—its education is top-notch and the scenery is beautiful. I've learned so much here and hope to come back often.”

An Italian student shared with People’s Daily Overseas Edition, “Different languages shape how we think. To connect more deeply with my Chinese classmates, I’m working hard to improve my Mandarin.”

Many ACE students plan to pursue careers in business and management, aiming to contribute to global economic development with both deep academic training and an expansive international outlook. “One of our professors told us we don’t just represent new ways of seeing China—we help shape how the world sees China,” said Lai Yalin. “We have a responsibility to tell China’s story well and to serve as bridges for global communication.”

At the program’s launch, RUC President Lin Shangli remarked, “Today’s students must possess global awareness and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. The ACE program is more than a degree—it’s a pioneering model for transnational education that meets the demand for interdisciplinary, cross-cultural talent.”

RUC, LUISS, and GWU have since agreed to renew their collaboration, taking the ACE program into its next phase. Together, they aim to build a new model for international talent development and contribute innovative solutions to global education. As they cultivate a new generation of globally minded graduates, they are also laying a stronger foundation for international friendship and mutual understanding across civilizations.