CET students are the only American students on the Western branch campus. BIE offers an open, relaxed atmosphere where students have many opportunities to interact with Chinese students. CET CET manages the administrative details of the American students stay. University of Mississippi students are expected to adhere to CET's on-site administrators and standards. CET has complete autonomy in the design and implementation of the program inside and outside the classroom.
Every student is encouraged to live with a Chinese roommate attending a local university.
Daily interaction with a Chinese roommate not only enhances the language focus, but also deepens the student s understanding of Chinese culture. Though students may choose to live alone or with an American roommate, more than 80 percent of CET students choose to share a room with a local roommate. Students agree to use only Mandarin in these locations. Students typically choose from activities such as calligraphy, painting, cooking, taiqi, and wushu. Experienced local teachers conduct these classes each week.