You may be thinking about studying abroad, but the bigger question is, “where”? This contemplation is understandable, but if you go a step further you can recognize your study abroad choice even greater.  Instead of asking yourself: “Where do I want to study abroad?”, you should ask yourself what you want to do while studying abroad, what your goals are, and what you want to take away from your experience. Students often associate studying abroad with Europe and never consider non-traditional destinations like China.

China: Initial Thoughts & Feelings

When I was thinking about a destination for study abroad, I first thought about what type of experience I wanted to have. I wanted to go abroad somewhere that I would be challenged and that would give me the opportunity to explore a completely new culture. 

This destination became China. I would encourage students thinking about studying abroad to consider locations that initially seem challenging. In China, there is an entire new and exciting culture waiting for you to explore. There are three cities that especially stuck out to me during my time in China: Beijing, Guilin, and Chengdu.  

Beijing: The Capital of Culture 

Beijing was the first city in China to leave an impression on me. I arrived in Beijing not knowing a word of Mandarin, but kept my eyes, ears, and mind open. Getting yourself acquainted with a new country is easier to do if you approach it with a positive and optimistic outlook.  Beijing is a capital city of culture. Upon arrival, I visited different places of significance in Beijing to get a taste of this city. 

Places such as the Temple of Heaven, a historic temple complex, which is a place of worship, but also an example of beautiful architecture and gardens, which makes it an enjoyable break from the bustling city life. 

There are several historical sites to visit as well, including Tiananmen Square, one of the more famous cultural sites and Jingshan Park, an imperial park that has one of the best views looking out at the Forbidden City. Beijing is the perfect destination to immerse yourself in the history of the city, one that stretches thousands of years back.   

Guilin: The City of Stunning Scenery

In order to begin my journey with learning Mandarin, I travelled to Guilin in the southeastern province of Guangxi where I would consider a Chinese Language School my home for a month. Guilin is a city of endless beauty, a city surrounded by mountains. I had the opportunity to immerse myself in this city by going out into the community with my Mandarin teacher and having conversations with locals.

Guilin is not a large city for China standards, with five million people! However, it is small enough to not feel overwhelmed when first coming to China. One of my favorite memories was when I took a trip with other students from the language school to nearby Yangshuo. Riding bicycles throughout fields surrounded by beautiful mountains gave me a feeling of freedom and pure bliss. If you crave delicious local food and beautiful nature, Guilin is your place.

Chengdu: A Spicy Way of Life  

Once I gained a solid foundation with learning Mandarin, I felt more comfortable in the city of Chengdu, located in the Sichuan province. I quickly learned how to tolerate, but later love the taste of spicy Sichuan cuisine. I also quickly fell in love with the slower pace of life that Chengdu is known for. Whether it was relaxing with friends, drinking tea at a teahouse, playing card games, or exploring the city, I never struggled to find something that I enjoyed doing in Chengdu. 

While in this city, I also had the incredible opportunity to learn more about China’s education system. I visited numerous levels of schools, from elementary school to universities, where I learned about the educational differences between China and the United States firsthand.  The most rewarding experience was giving talks to high school students in Chengdu about the college admissions process and life in the United States.

I had meaningful conversations with students who had questions and concerns about studying abroad in the United States, and I was more than happy to give them advice and guidance with this life-changing experience. While Chengdu is famously known for their giant panda bears, there is more to this city that made me feel right at home.

What Makes China Special

My experiences in these cities contributed to my overall positive impression of China. I learned that the power of language truly connects the world. This time abroad was my first time traveling to a country by myself and not knowing the native language. I wanted a challenge in my study abroad experience, and I received it, but it was not an impossible one.

Students thinking about studying abroad in China should acknowledge that their experience will rely heavily on self-motivation.  You must take the time to learn the language, culture, and customs. China is a vast and diverse country with endless opportunities for you to discover as a student. If I did this at age eighteen and solo during my gap year with no prior travel experience, so can you.

Speaking of cuisine, check out Jake’s past blog, “How Chinese Food in China Changed Me Forever” for more details on tasty opportunities in China!