It’s been about a month since I returned from my study abroad trip in Beijing, China. I’ve certainly returned to many elements of familiarity back in the United States, where road signs and restaurant menus are in English. Recalling all the experiences that I’ve had in China this summer, I can’t help but think about how enriching this experience has been, both academically and personally.
Other than the more obvious academic gains that I was able to take away from this trip by taking Chinese, Public Health, and Traditional Chinese Medicine classes, I was able to grow and develop as an individual by navigating the subway system, traveling with friends from Beijing to Shanghai and back, and even simply attempting to order food at a restaurant. In a country where I had such little knowledge regarding the culture and the language, simply attempting to accomplish everyday tasks became a significant challenge. At the end of the two months, however, I found that these challenges were a lot simpler. Instead of asking Chinese-speaking friends for help, I found that I was actually able to complete these tasks myself.
Through this study abroad trip, I was able to meet an amazing group of friends; as we struggled together through the challenges of being in an unfamiliar country, we were able to become extremely close-knit.
This study abroad trip to Beijing, China was certainly one to remember. I will definitely miss the food and interactions I had with individuals during this trip!
