There’s a different kind of learning that happens when students can step out of the classroom and into an experience, when something you’ve read about becomes something they can actually do, create, and remember. That’s the kind of work happening every day at UTA Libraries, and it’s why MavsDay on April 22 is so important. 

MavsDay is UTA’s annual day of giving. It’s an opportunity for our community to connect with the work happening across campus and support the experiences that help students succeed. When you give to UTA Libraries, you’re helping create hands-on learning opportunities that make course material feel real and lasting. 

From Language to Lived Experience 

One of those experiences is happening in Dr. Neal Liang’s course, Chinese 2310: Chinese Culture in the World. Dr. Liang has spent more than 16 years teaching Chinese language and culture at UTA, and his approach has grown to focus on helping students actively engage with what they’re learning. 

 
“We don’t train students to memorize words only,” he said. “We help them use the language to perform and accomplish certain tasks such as greetings, making appointments, making requests, visiting a doctor and ordering meals.” 

That focus on doing rather than memorizing naturally led him to rethink how he teaches culture. 

 
“Traditionally, we present culture through text, slides, video, or audio,” Dr. Liang explained. “But I don’t think that leaves a strong impression until students actually engage and interact with artifacts or environments.” 

 
Bringing Learning Into the Libraries 

 
That idea comes to life through his partnership with UTA Libraries. 

In collaboration with library staff, Dr. Liang brings his students to the Libraries for a hands-on project in which they create miniature terracotta warriors inspired by ancient China. What starts as research quickly becomes something more. 

 
Students begin by learning the history through readings and videos. Then they step into the Libraries to begin the creative work. Using 3D-printed molds, clay, and specialized tools, they shape their own figures. In later sessions, they carve details, apply glaze, and fire their pieces in a kiln. 

 
Alongside the physical work, students write about their process and focus on specific details of their warrior, from hairstyle to armor to footwear. By the end, they leave with both a finished piece and a deeper understanding of the culture behind it. 

Focus, Engagement, and Real Connection 

The difference in student engagement is clear. 

 
“One thing that touched me the most,” Dr. Liang said, “is that in the regular classroom, students will take out their cell phones. But here in the library, I see them so much more focused on the task. They haven’t touched their phones. They are focused on the clay and carving the details.” 

That kind of focus leads to stronger connections with the material. 

 
“I think it helps them retain knowledge,” he said. “Students often write that they did not know how difficult it is to make the terracotta warrior until they did the miniature. From that experience, they get a deeper understanding and appreciation of how much work was put into 1,000 to 2,000 years ago.” 

 
Instead of simply learning about history, students begin to understand it in a more personal and lasting way. 

A True Partnership 

Experiences like this are built through collaboration. 

“I really appreciate the efforts that have been put in,” Dr. Liang said. “When we first started, I talked with Chloe Bennett and she was very supportive. She helped find the file for the 3D-printed mold, and we did experiments together. Not just Chloe, but other staff as well. Their help was very important.” 

At UTA Libraries, these kinds of partnerships are central to our mission. We work closely with faculty to turn ideas into hands-on learning experiences that support student success in and beyond the classroom. 

“Definitely,” Dr. Liang said when asked if he would encourage other faculty to partner with the Libraries. 

Why MavsDay Matters 

Moments like this are made possible through your support. 

MavsDay is about showing up for students in real, tangible ways. Across campus, gifts made during the 24-hour campaign support programs, resources, and opportunities that help students stay on track and succeed.  

For UTA Libraries, that support helps provide the materials, tools, and staff time that bring these partnerships to life. 

“Without the Libraries’ support, I don’t think I would be able to provide these experiences,” Dr. Liang said. “I really appreciate that the libraries can provide those materials for us for free. I want to make sure that students continue to have these opportunities.” 

That’s what your support on MavsDay makes possible. 

On April 22, you have the opportunity to be part of that moment. To support the partnerships, the experiences, and the students who carry them forward. 

Join us for MavsDay. Make your gift. Help turn learning into something students can hold onto, long after they leave UTA. 

Why It Matters for Students 

For students, the impact doesn’t end when the project is finished. 

They take their miniature sculptures home, a reminder of what they learned and what they created. 

“I think this is something that can remind them that back in college I had this class where I made this miniature,” Dr. Liang said.  “Without this project, they might not remember too much about Chinese history. So, I think it is a good reminder.”  

It’s a simple but powerful outcome, turning a class assignment into a lasting memory.