Why should you come to China? You mean besides the diverse culture, beautiful atmosphere, and delicious food? Even with the incredible things China has to offer, many people are, understandably, hesitant to commit to it as their study abroad destination, whether due to the language barrier, political concerns, or being so far away from their family. I shared all these sentiments before committing and coming here, and these worries followed me all the way to the 14-hour flight that brought me to Beijing. However, after being here I realized what was worth worrying about and what turned out to not be a big deal.
As far as China’s political situation and how that may affect Americans, I’ve never felt anything but safe in Beijing, street crime as well, being all but nonexistent (that being said, still practice smart traveling safety!). The most notable disruption is just going through the process of acquiring a student visa, which is a simple enough process but still sets the country off from others in regards how easy it is to “pop-in” for a few months abroad. I suggest getting a visa agent, there are plenty of reliable companies you can find on the internet. It was especially helpful for me because my closest embassy was half-way across the country.
Photo 1: First night in China, TBC treated us to a free dinner after our long flight
Overcoming the language barrier and homesickness, therefore, are what I consider to be the biggest concerns when coming to China. Though, considering you’ve found yourself here, looking at programs in China, I imagine you’ve already considered this. While a background in Chinese language, specifically Mandarin, can be incredibly helpful, it is not necessary to both survive and thrive here. TBC not only provides Chinese language education at whichever level you’re at, but also helps you set up a life here during orientation week. They help you set up a Chinese sim card, bank account, and introduce you to multiple different transportation methods (the subway being the most convenient and easy to use for foreigners). These are all necessary to living in China and would be daunting without any Chinese expertise, but luckily TBC is there to help you through it all. Additionally, there are many apps used in everyday life in China and while some of them have English translation functions (Ali Pay), others do not (Meituan, which is basically Chinese Doordash). The apps without translation functions certainly have a learning curve, but you can easily take screenshots to put into your favorite translator app, or even ask any of the Chinese friends you’ll make (both associated with TBC and regular students at UIBE).
Furthermore, many of the student here are nowhere near fluent, although most (except for one) do have some type of background in Chinese language, either in high school, college, or speaking it at home. We’re all on different levels, certainly some are better at speaking and listening, while others are better at reading and writing. But this doesn’t stop us from venturing out to try new things; it might just take us a bit longer to get where we’re going as we figure out the Chinese map apps; or it might take us a few tries to open our Meituan lockers (where you pick up your to-go food on campus) after a confusing call from your delivery driver. Regardless, we can all help each other where one might be a little less confident. Not to mention this experience is all about immersing yourself in a new culture and you definitely won’t be the only people having to adjust to it, whether in the program, or the other international students at UIBE and even those who live in our building.
Photo 2: First ever Tang Hulu bought off the street on our way to a Japanese mall.
Now, what about homesickness? During at least your first month here, you’ll be doing enough new things, exploring new places, and meeting new people that you may be thoroughly distracted enough to not think about it too much. Especially because it’s easy to forget that you’re not on vacation and that you’ll be in this country for 3-4 more months and you’ll actually have to go to class. That being said, being abroad is going to be strenuous no matter where you go and knowing how to combat homesickness while balancing travel and classes can be incredibly difficult. I’ve found that making annual calls to your family, staying in contact with your friends, and making new friends while you’re here have helped me the most.
Before coming here, I thought that the time difference would be the toughest hill to overcome, but I’ve found that it’s even more convenient than when I had to deal with time zone changes in Europe. Because China is about 14 hours ahead of where I live in the US, my day is ending just as my friends’ and family’s is starting; I’m sleeping while they’re in work or class and we get to chat during some of the best “chatting hours”. Alternatively, my experience with contacting people back home while I was in Europe was more difficult because it took more of an effort to interrupt the middle of my day to reach out to them, unlike catching up before my day starts or when I’m winding down for bed. This, of course, comes down to personal preference, but I often have a hard time reminding myself to stay in touch with those back home, especially if I’m always doing stuff wherever I am in the world. So, being able to send updates during times we both have time to chat has been monumental in my consistent connection to my friends and family.
Photos taken during Yunnan excursion, by: Stephanie T.
So, now, what do other people who’ve been through this program think about China?
Grace G. (20)
Photo taken during TBC trip to the Summer Palace.
Ohio State University, Junior, major in operations and logistics management with a minor in business sustainability
What has been the best part of this experience for you?
“Unlike most of my peers, studying abroad in China was not my first time in the country. When I was young, the few times I came to Beijing was only to visit and stay with family. My decision to study abroad here was influenced by my family; both my parents and relatives, who grew up in China, were thrilled to hear the news.” As well as being able to connect with family again, Grace comments on how she’s “had the incredible opportunity to experience China in a way [she] never has before.” She also commented that “being able to meet new people in China, let alone travel the country with them, has gifted me an amazing and valuable gift of immersing myself in my family’s culture. Constantly learning new things or rediscovering customs I had previously known about the rich traditions and heritage has simultaneously given me new perspectives and a better understanding of my own family and our culture; especially after partaking in said traditions myself. Growing up in my hometown, my family had minimal outlets where we could practice these traditions, for example: certain foods specific to Lunar New Year or Tomb Sweeping [Festival], and finally getting to spend these holidays with my relatives and TBC friends has been truly priceless. I have been extremely grateful and fortunate to have these once-in-a-lifetime experiences with people I cherish and the chance to absorb my family’s culture while reinventing my ethnic identity.”
What has been the worst part? Why?
“The hardest adjustment to studying abroad in China has been the intense culture differences. Even though I have been to China many times in my life, this trip was the first time I’ve been old enough to independently navigate the country. In the beginning, it was most overwhelming to be thrown into the deep end whether it was ordering at a restaurant, using our television’s remote, calling our food delivery driver, reading our room’s air conditioning controls, or general asking for help and directions…I had not fully prepared myself for this dramatic transition. I remember it was stressful at times to go from not properly practicing my Mandarin in years to fully depending on those skills now…it was the most difficult adjustment. Thankfully, TBC is the very definition of ‘it takes a village’ and I have felt extremely fortunate for their guidance this semester. I truly do not think that the vigorous adjustment to living in this new country by myself would have been as easy and enjoyable if it wasn’t for the TBC community.”
Michael M. (20) and Michael O. (26)
Photo taken on solo-trip to Shanghai.
Texas A&M, Junior, double major in international studies and Spanish with a minor in Chinese language
Photo taken on TBC trip to the Summer Palace.
Saint Louis University, Junior, major in computer science
Did you feel prepared before you came to China? In what ways? What weren’t you prepared for?
MM: “Before coming to TBC, I had taken Chinese for a few years and had been to China once briefly, so I felt somewhat prepared culturally and linguistically. It had been a year or two since my last Chinese class, so my Chinese was a little rusty at first, but it has improved a lot since arriving in Beijing. I wasn’t as prepared for little things, like setting up a Chinese bank account and learning to use the many apps that are a part of daily life here. However, TBC staff and Chinese roommates have been extremely helpful along the way and, sometimes, trial-and-error is the best teacher.”
MO: “Personally, I feel only slightly prepared. I knew a little Chinese but not too much. I just downloaded every app I needed, except for a few here and there.”
What would you suggest to other people considering this program or studying abroad in China?
MM: “Go for it! You won’t regret it. Certainly, there have been stressful moments during by time abroad, but overall, this has been one of the most fun and fulfilling semesters during my time in college! I have learned so much, become more resilient and flexible in new situations, experienced a new part of the world, and made amazing new friends! I would recommend TBC to anyone looking to study abroad in China…I remember when I was preparing to go abroad and told my friends and relatives that I would be going to China, I often got reactions of shock and concern for my safety. Given how many times it happened, I started to question if going to China was really the right decision. Looking back, I’m so glad I came! I have felt extremely safe throughout my time in China, and the TBC staff have been very supportive. My experience studying and traveling in China has been so positive! I want to reassure students who have a similar experience when planning to study abroad in China that: 1) you’re not crazy for wanting to come to China, it’s an amazing place! And 2) you really don’t have much to worry about, as long as you take the normal precautions for traveling abroad.”
MO: “Studying abroad in China can be an enriching and transformative experience.” He suggests that: “Before making any decisions, thoroughly research universities, programs, and cities in China to find the best fit for your academic and personal goals.” He also mentioned that “learning basic mandarin can greatly enhance your experience and help you navigate daily life in China better. I suggest you download WeChat and other Chinese apps that you need to get around.” These may include Baidu (map app), Alipay (for day-to-day payments and easy access to public transit cards), and Meituan (food delivery). You can also download these after you arrive, TBC will have their own suggestions and will help you during orientation week. Michael also pointed out that you should “prepare yourself for cultural differences. China has a rich history and distinct cultural practices, so be open-minded and willing to embrace new experiences.” You may also want to “create a budget that includes tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and travel costs. China’s cost of living varies depending on the city, so research expenses beforehand.” It is also important to “stay in touch with family and friends back home. Use social media, messaging apps, or video calls to keep connected and share your experiences. Build relationships with locals, fellow students, and faculty members. Networking can open up opportunities for internships, jobs, and cultural exchange. Take advantage of your time in China to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, historical sites, and cultural landmarks. Traveling within China can be relatively inexpensive and offers a wealth of experiences.” Michael concludes with one last reminder to “stay safe! Be aware of your surroundings and follow safety guidelines. While China is generally safe, it’s important to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas or when traveling alone at night.”
Eamon P. (20) and Meili S. (20)
Photo taken during the Yunnan excursion.
Notre Dame, Junior, double major in political science and global affairs with a minor in Chinese language
Photo taken during the Yunnan excursion.
University of San Francisco, Junior, double major in accounting and international business
Why did you choose this program?
Eamon: “I chose TBC because of its dedication not only to academics, but also to providing a complete cultural immersion experience.” He also spoke on what sets TBC apart is its “immersive field trips, particularly to Yunnan, its comprehensive Chinese language program, and its tailored classes designed to introduce Western students to Chinese culture.”
Meili: “I wanted to spend more time with my family and experience what it would be like to study here,” she also noted how this program is “sponsored by [her] university and all [her] credits would transfer.” An important feature for anyone looking to study abroad 😉
*Grace also commented that a huge reason she chose TBC over other Chinese programs was that they adhere to the schedule of American semesters, starting in January, ending in May, with a spring break in March. This helped her with scheduling summer internships which are, obviously, compliant with American semester schedules.
Why did you choose this program over other Chinese programs?
Eamon: “Many programs in China expect you to seek out opportunities to ‘experience China’ on your own,” noting that you can certainly do this regardless, but “it is often coming out of your own pocket and might not push you beyond your comfort zone.” However, TBC is different because they have many guided trips (often without a fee) throughout the semester including the excursion. He included how he, “as an American with no prior connection to China” found this to be an important aspect to the program because it “allowed [him] to discover and participate in experiences [he] didn’t even know were possible.”
Are you glad you did?
Meili: “I’m really glad I settled on this program because I’ve enjoyed this experience so far and it’s become one of the most memorable times of my life.”
Eamon: “I’m definitely happy with my decision [because] TBC supports you in adapting to life in China. Unlike attending a Chinese university, where you’re essentially thrown into the deep end and left to navigate housing, food, and friendships on your own, TBC streamlines this process…TBC is the most immersive, helpful, and tightly knit study abroad program available to American students seeking to study in China.”
These interviews come from the other 5 members of TBC’s Spring 2024 study abroad cohort.
By: Stephanie T. (19)
Photo taken on TBC trip to the Beijing Zoo.
Saint Louis University, Sophomore, major in psychology with a minor in Chinese Language
(P.S. check out my other blog posts about what the classes and schedule are like at TBC and traveling in China)
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