US students gain deeper understanding of Confucius in Qufu

"It's the way you write things. And the same in life in general — it is not so much about what your angle is, but also about the way that you're doing it, that matters in the end," she said.

The exchange was also about building bridges across the present. Many students spoke of the friendships they had already formed with Chinese peers, finding that everyday conversations about food and family taught them as much as any formal lecture.

The event allows us to actually talk to somebody and hear them say this is how things actually are, rather than relying on preconceived notions, said Boerger.

Haywood said she would share the importance of creating harmony through trust and mutual respect.

"Something I've learnt from learning about Confucius is that strong relationships don't just happen, you have to actually try for them," she said.