Hengshui University student Gan Du said her previous understanding of American peers came only from movies and social media.

"Real understanding can only come from face-to-face interaction. Friendship doesn't need grand narratives - it lives in every shared meal, and every moment we tell our stories," she said.

The two universities have maintained a long-term partnership. Ma Yunyan, director of Hengshui University's international cooperation and exchange center, said the activity has deepened exchanges over the years.

"We hope this platform allows Chinese and American youth to build understanding and friendship through genuine contact," she said.