In this episode of CGTN's Talk to Sinologists, Professor Peter K. Bol of Harvard University takes us back through 40 years of academic exchange. He reflects on the transformation of Chinese international students – from the early arrivals of the late 80s to today's top-tie researchers who are outcompeting their peers on the global stage.

Is the "diligent but quiet" stereotype still true? Professor Bol offers a nuanced take on cultural differences in the classroom and explains why the rise of China's higher education is a win for the entire world.

Beyond high GPAs, discover how these young scholars are bringing critical thought and innovation to the world's most prestigious labs and lecture halls.

Executive producer: Zhang Jingwen

Producer: Yang Sha

Directors: Zhong Xia, Zhang Yuying

Video editor: Zhong Xia

Videographers: Gao Zhihong, Leng Junpeng

Cover photo: Yu Peng