Students rise to English excellence

The final rounds of two English speaking competitions hosted by China Daily - one for college students and another for high school and primary students - wrapped up in Beijing on Sunday, recognizing top English speakers.

Zhu Xue, a sophomore at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, was named grand champion of the 21st Century Coca-Cola Cup National English Speaking Competition for college students.

Unlike many of the contestants who were English majors, Zhu is enrolled in the university's medical program. She said the competition provided an opportunity to give voice to her thoughts and opinions.