Study Abroad Cross-Cultural Reflection

This study abroad experience has opened my eyes to the ways of the world and has, so far, been the greatest adventure that I have ever embarked upon. Being that this is my first time diving into a culture significantly different from my own, I have to say that the first weeks in China and Japan were wonderful learning experiences for me.                                                  

The first day in China, as I’m sure is the case for most people visiting a new place, was daunting. The thought of being so far from home in a place where I could not speak, nor understand, the language brought on a lot of stress. While the landscape beneath the plane provided some comfort and a sense of adventure, the apprehension was very much present. From the food to the historical sites, China was rich with diversity and tradition, seeming to transcend time; the past seemed to commingle in harmony with the present.                                                              

Something that really caught my attention was the fact that many people from the more rural areas of China have never seen foreigners before. On a trip to the zoo and on a hiking trip, my classmates and I were stopped multiple times for photo ops with people from all over China. It really put it into perspective just how unique countries like the U.S. are for their diversity. Save for a vocal minority, Americans do not bat an eye when we see people who look different from us. We go our entire lives knowing and accepting that people come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors, but we are all human beings. I am certain that there was no ill-intent on the part of those taking pictures with us, but it goes to show just how much we take for granted the opportunity we have to interact with people from all over the world and from different heritages and accepting it as the way things are.                                                                                          

Leaving Beijing was a bitter-sweet moment. After all the stress of school and the uncertainty of living in China, it was nice to finally move on to the next adventure. On the other hand, I knew I would miss my Mandarin classmates and all of the wonderful places I had the pleasure of visiting. Despite the stresses that all of us were feeling at various points, whether culture shock or school, I can honestly say that my friends and I had a wonderful time exploring Beijing and I know that I will miss China.                                                                                     

One of the main goals I had set for myself, besides continuing my language study in both countries, was to gain a better understanding of the United States’ relationships with East Asia. Something that I had not realized was just how dependent the United States and China are on each other. For example, China has many food chains and clothing stores that are all based in the States. Additionally, China imports food and other necessities from the U.S. Within the context of the current trade war, it is and will continue to be concerning as the effects of these tariffs start to take their toll on both countries' economies and consumers. While the U.S. and China have not always had the best relations throughout history (often times becoming volatile and violent), both countries’ economies and positions of power within international relations and politics have been essential to each other’s survival. The course of the next few months, and possibly years, could very well determine the fate of the global economy. While many people, politicians included, have historically been skeptical of China’s political structure, it is important to remember that the downfall of two enormous world economies will have devastating effects of the economic and political structure of the world. By being in the thick of the current events and being able to speak with Chinese students and teachers about the issue, I believe that I have made great strides in fulfilling the goal I set up for myself.
            Overall, this trip has been an incredible experience that I will always remember fondly. The memories I have made so far are the greatest souvenirs that I will bring home, and this adventure is one that will better prepare me for life beyond college.