Study Abroad
Flourishes, With China a Hot Spot by
TAMAR LEWIN
(New York Times-- Nov 17, 2008)
China
grows as study hotspot for U.S. students by Margo Buchanan
(International Herald Tribune -- Dec 7, 2005)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Some
participants wrote about their experiences and gave advice to those who are
planning to make a Study Abroad trip to
The
-----
The
trip to
Through comparative
analysis of
Overall, the trip was
educational and informative. The accommodations were very good and the food was
plentiful and healthy.
------
My study abroad trip to
I have also made many new friends on this
trip. Since we were such a large and diverse group of students, I learned
not only about the richness and diversity of Chinese culture, but also about
the different cultural backgrounds of the students who I was traveling
with. I will never forget how much I have learned from them and the
wonderful times we had together.
-----
The Brooklyn
College/CUNY trip to China 2005 was more than just a study abroad program it
was a study of myself. By learning the
Chinese culture and learning about the cultures of my ethnically diverse fellow
trip mates I was led to deeper assess my own cultural identity. The trip consisted of forty-eight beautiful
students from many different races, cultures and ethnicity and while studying
China I was also learning about India, Africa, Dominican Republic, the
Caribbean and all the other wonderful places that my trip mates were from.
On this trip
to
Visiting
I have been
encouraging all my friends to take a study abroad trip or better yet take the
trip to
I have gained
forty-six new friends and I have met a professor whose professionalism and
passion for learning has left a lasting impression on me. Although I have learned a lot from this trip
I am yet to overcome my biggest obstacle, learning to use the chopsticks.
Thank you
Professor Lu. You are wonderful!
-----
The CUNY
China-trip was absolutely fantastic. I was able to learn so much. It was
especially great that we did not remain in one part of
It would have
been nice to have had a course in Mandarin. However,
Another great
part of the
Besides the
learning experiences. I would have to say just being a Part of the group that
went on the
-----
The BC study abroad program in
----
Traveling to
Having the chance to share
and discover with a group of total strangers allowed me to see and experience
the mystery of friendship and the power of unity. Building memories with the
strangers that have become my friend and seeing how much we had accomplished as
a group was the most memorable part of my trip. Each time I think of
Professor Lu, I would also
like to take this opportunity to thank you for your hard work and planning
that were devoted in making this trip a memorable one. Support was
had from all sides, and I applaud your commitment and dedication to seeing that
we had an enjoyable time. Thank you.
----
My
----
Hello Prof.
Lu, I would like to thank you for accepting me into this program and making
this trip memorable. This study abroad, I would say, was kind of stressful for
me in the beginning but I am very glad to experience it all because my
perspective about
-----
I
am glad that I was a part of the study abroad program in china 05-06. I
met a lot of interesting people, lived and learned in china. I
experienced the culture first hand. There is nothing more rewarding than
being a part of such a diverse group. I was out of my comfort zone
a lot and I was challenged to live and think outside the box. I even left
the program with new friends that I would have not been friends with if not for
this trip. Learning about the Chinese history through the tours was
a great idea. I even ended up falling in love a the Tang dynasty.
Visiting the host family was another great idea because I got to see how a
family lived and they were very welcoming. The visit made me realize
that never judge or generalize people until you have lived in their own
moccasins. Also interacting with the college students was also a great
idea. I wished we spent more days with those students they were fun to be
with. The people and the professor made this trip worth while. We
compromised a lot and helped and loved each other like we were
family. We also assimilated to our surroundings and respected the culture
in which we lived it. This program was very safe and I would recommend it
to anyone.
----
The Study Abroad
program to
Every moment
of it. The group of 40+ students was very friendly and nice; we got to know one
another very well. We got to visit
----
This past
winter was one of the most memorable months of my life. Going to
----
Studying Abroad in
----
This trip to
and cheap.
----
Even
though I had a more difficult time with my independent research than I
originally hoped, I had a wonderful time on the China study abroad trip. The tourist
sights -- including the Great Wall and the Forbidden City and the terracotta
warriors of Xi'an -- surpassed my expectations. The food was incredible and
reliably cheap. The Chinese people were understanding and hospitable and
helpful, even when we couldn't speak each other's language, which was often.
But
what I enjoyed most about the trip, and will continue to appreciate in the
future, is the great group of people with which I had the pleasure of traveling.
From all backgrounds and a wide variety of ages and personalities, the 47 other
CUNY student-travelers made the trip one of the great experiences of my life --
I have made many friends that I will stay in touch with for a long time and
wouldn't trade my experiences in China for anything. In fact, I enjoyed the
trip so much I'm seriously considering returning to Nanjing to teach
English for a year!
-----
The
trip to China was my first trip outside of the US since I was very young, and
to go to such a different culture from my own was indeed an experience. Aside
from the people and places we visited, the bonding between our class was
extraordinary. The entire trip was like an open classroom, because we got to
learn from each other, as well as the environment surrounding us. There were
times when even though I didn’t know how to speak the language, I would still
be able to communicate non-verbally, and it just proved to me that it is
possible to cross cultural barriers despite language and cultural differences.
I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who is interested in seeing China
up close and personal. Our professor was insightful and helpful, despite having
to attend to 40+ students, he was able to effectively manage the trip
successfully. Thank you Professor Lu, I will never forget this experience.
----
Prof
Lu I would like to thank you for spearheading this wonderful program, which for
many semesters has successfully brought students from various schools together
in a close and amicable fashion. Together we learn, we explore, we grow, and
together we share china. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to have a
great time in china. We all gained many friends, ate wondrous foods, saw sights
that we might never again see in our lifetime, and experienced the Chinese
culture.
----
I'm an
American Born Chinese and live in a very Americanized version of the Chinese
culture. I was finally able to "go
back to my roots" through the CUNY-BC Study Abroad Program in China. There, I recognized some of the dishes my
mother cooks while also enjoying new and different dishes. (I also found that dumplings are very popular
in Northern China during the Spring Festival.)
Through bargaining and the necessity of certain everyday phrases (i.e.
"Where's the bathroom?"), I was able to improve my mandarin in a very
informal manner. We visited many
tourists’ areas but the highlight of this trip for me was not the Great Wall of
China and the Terra Cotta Soldiers in Xi'an.
It was the students at Changzhou Teachers College that made me feel
really welcome in China. Each Changzhou
student partnered up with one (or two) American students. My partner and I hit it off pretty well and
she even e-mailed me the day after I came back from China. Because of this trip, I know that I will
definitely visit China again, to meet up with my Changzhou friend and to
improve my mandarin.
----
Going to China for the winter session of 2005-2006 was a
very interesting, educational, valuable and challenging experience.
I had the chance to not only learn; however, I had the chance to actually
experience the Chinese culture, traditions and language first hand.
I had the chance to interact and live as the local Chinese people do.
I had the opportunity to shop at the local markets and stores, and to also
experience eating at some of the most popular restaurants in China.
I had the experience to interact with other Chinese college students and
professors. However, the most significant part of the trip for me was to
physically visit the historical sites and also my visit with my host
family was an unforgettable experience.
----
On Sunday, I found myself wishing my friends and family members to have a “Happy Chinese New Year!” Although this doesn’t sound like a revolution, I think it’s good evidence that my time in China wasn’t only productive in terms of absorbing the local culture, but it was also an extremely positive experience as well. After returning back home I naturally found myself reflecting on our wonderful trip and I still can’t get over the fact how much we were able to do and see in less then month long program. Things like visiting many culturally and historically rich cities, covering 6 credits worth of college curriculum, hanging out with local college students, and having an opportunity to do some personal exploration and discovery as well.
As unproductive of a feedback as it may sound, there is nothing that I would change about the trip. I wish we would spend more time in each location but then I realize that the cost of that is that we would not be able to visit so many interesting places. I wish we would spend less time in the “factories” but even that turned out to be a very educational experience and gave us an opportunity to appreciate how certain products are manufactured or come about. After visiting those factories, jade is no longer just another natural resource, or silk is not just another textile. Traveling by train, what I originally believed would be an unbearable chore turned out to be one of the greatest and timely experiences of the trip. It gave an opportunity for the group to really bond and come together as one big family, it gave us an opportunity to get a taste of what the actual life in China is like, and it gave us an opportunity to see a little bit of the countryside.
One of the expectations that I had from this trip when I signed up was that through this program I would familiarize myself with Chinese history and culture. I think it’s safe to say that in the course of our explorations around the country, and during our class seminars, I got more than my moneys worth! Every expectation that I had from this program was surpassed by miles filled with wonderful experiences and unforgettable memories!
In addition to a wonderful traveling and intercultural experiences, I am as equally excited about the fact that I made a few wonderful friends along the way!
----
I
have lived in NY all of my life; I even have a diverse group of friends. I love
learning about their cultures, and participating in the holidays. After I
received my acceptance to the Study Abroad Winter 2005/2006 in China, I never
thought I would be the one to go through a culture shock, but I did! I read
books on China and its culture, and even took a semester of Mandarin. But no
textbook, video, or class prepared me for the amazing experience. Once I got
over the culture shock, I began to appreciate the differences, enjoy the
beauty, and admire China’s self-sufficient society. I had an exhilarating experience in China.
The host family, the students of the University, and the people were beautiful
and very giving, the food was exotic and delicious, and the architecture was
breath taking. The one thing I was most amazed by was how well the landscaping
was preserved in the dead of winter. It’s a stunning country and I would love
to go back to visit more places! The best things to experience on a trip are
good food, good company, and beautiful scenery. This winter trip to China has
accomplished all of those qualities and more. If I have the chance again, I
would visit China in a heartbeat!
----
China On My Mind
I have traveled to a lot of places in the world. Some, I hated. Some gave me great memories. The trip to China was a surprising one. It was a trip that will definitely stay with me for years to come.
This trip gave me great memories. The sites were great but what made it unforgettable were the people. The people of China were the most hospitable, welcoming, curious, and open people to foreigners in all of my traveling experiences.
I could have done this trip alone but found that going with such a large group gave me great memories. It has given me a great way to recollect the trip with the group and it has led me to create friends that I could return home with.
Classes on our study abroad trip were supposed to be everyday of the week. They were condensed. Even though I did not feel great about this at first, in the end I was very satisfied with what I learned from the classes regardless of the workload.
Through out the trip I was constantly learning and kept aware to relate my surroundings to the classes. This aspect was the best part of the classes because regardless of how much work was done, I knew I picked up so much while I was there.
Lastly, I felt no culture shock when I was there, to be honest. But when I returned to the states I was steamrolled by it. What hit me were all the real differences between the East and the West. I also was able to form my own opinion on the globalization of the East once I returned. I know that my mind has changed after this trip, most importantly after returning and I hope other people can feel the transformation that I went through after I returned at least once in their life.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What can I say about China that has not already been said. It was a great experience, the culture the people and one can not forget the food. I really enjoyed myself, It was wonderful. If anyone is interested in going you'll have a great time. Not only will your classmates leave an impression on you but the people and culture of China will also. From the Great Wall to the Spring Gardens from the Nanjing memorial to the market places, there is so much to see and do you will never be bored. What a rich history with the Terra-cotta soldiers and the city of Jade. It's just wonderful and may I add once again the interesting choices of food. So come and join the many CUNY student's that have already experienced what China had to offer, trust me you will never forget it.
The Study Abroad to China program (Winter '04-'05) was absolutely breathtaking! The scenery, the local people, the food, just the whole atmosphere of such a beautiful country was well worth the visit! I decided to participate in this trip, because I wanted to experience my culture up close and personal. Not only did I gain that, but made many friends in China and my fellow classmates who were also in the program. I'm definitely looking forward to going to China again very soon!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One of the best parts about this trip was making new friends on the trip. In China, we all hanged out and went out to eat almost every other night. The Chinese food is excellent and you do have other options if you get bored from the same food.There are other ethnic restaurants you can choose from especially in the downtown area.It's great because you have the freedom to try new things and have the chance to explore the cities on your own.The cool part is shopping for items and pay at a lower price.You learn what bargaining is all about because it is done so often there. We stayed in Nanjing Normal University for two weeks because that was where our classes were held.The two classes I took were history and speech.The classes are interesting and you have help from the professors who can help answer any questions you have regarding the observations you see.This is why I highly recommend this trip for anyone who has never been there and would like to go.I would go again someday when I get a chance to. There is so much to see and learn.I think most importantly you expand your own horizons and learn more about yourself.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I thought that food was going to be an issue.However, there was all types of food for everyone.There's no way anyone could've lost weight.And the food was delicious, everywhere we went.It was the Chinese food I was used to here, but only 100% better.I have to eat authentic Chinese food from here on.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Traveling to China was the most memorable trip of all my travels. I have learned more in one month than four months of classroom work. I will revisit China in the near future and I will also encourage students to take up on this inexpensive offer and make China their next destination. The food and rich culture will stay in one's memory for a life time and the wealth of knowledge will add to every aspect of one's educational and social development.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This trip is affordable, efficient and packs a whole lot of priceless experiences that you cannot get with most programs. Everything from sleeping on the train to Xian to the self exploration opportunities can only be described as priceless. Whatever your future plans may be, this trip should definitely be one of your top priorities in getting the college experience at Brooklyn College. China is emerging as a world power, if not already so, and will play a major role in the history of this generation and for many generations more to come. This trip is recommended to anyone who wants to see another country, and for those who think that NYC is the most vibrant city in the world.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The opportunites can only be described as priceless. Whatever your future plans may be, this trip should definitely be one of your top priorties in getting the college experience at Brooklyn College. China is emerging as a world power, if not already so, and will play a major role in the history of this generation and for many generations more to come. This trip is recommended to anyone who wants to see another country, and for those who think that NYC is the most vibrant city in the world.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The study abroad of winter Nanjing, China 2004 has been a very enriching experience! The group of professors and students plus second timers added up to a whopping 47 of us! It was a big responsibility and it obviously took tremendous precision planning to have it worked out so wonderfully!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I participated on both the summer and winter study-abroad trip to China in 2004-2005. The summer trip was my first trip to China, so naturally it was an eye opening experience for me. Every site we visited and cultural difference we encountered was a new learning experience. I treasured every moment of my time in China. This winter, I focused more on my business research so I was able to better understand China's market, by talking to the business people, the locals, international and graduate students as well as my host family. The whole experience was just amazing. I've made many new friends and memories from this trip. I very much enjoy the side trips that Professor Lu organizes, such as the summer trip to the Yellow Mountains and the winter trip to the Hainan Island. Overall, this study abroad trip is very rewarding. Personally, from both of these trips, it has pretty much convinced me that China is really a fascinating place, with so much culture to offer. I recommend this trip to anyone who wants to visit China and make the most out of their winter intercession or summer break.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Study Abroad to China program (Winter '04-'05) was absolutely breathtaking! The scenery, the local people, the food, just the whole atmosphere of such a beautiful country was well worth the visit! I decided to participate in this trip, because I wanted to experience my culture up close and personal. Not only did I gain that, but made many friends in China and my fellow classmates who were also in the program. I'm definitely looking forward to going to China again very soon!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Nanjing, China study abroad program held during the January intersession has been a wonderful experience. I was not sure about going at first because there was so much paper work involved and also my first time away from home for a month. It was worth going through the paper work because the trip was very well organized and I had a great time on the entire trip. I had the opportunity to travel to different places that I've never been to and have always wanted to go. We went to 6 cities, which include Beijing, Xian, Yangzhou, Nanjing, Suzhou, and Shanghai. There were many historic sites we saw such as The Great Wall of China, Summer Palace, and Terra Cotta Army soldiers to name a few. They were all amazing sites with a history to tell.Shanghai was the most cosmopolitan city and one of the cities I really enjoyed being in.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The CUNY-BC study abroad trip in China was richly filled with touring opportunities, where we were provided with top-notch tour guides that were both informative and entertaining. We visited and learned about past wonders such as the history of the Great Wall, the Terra Cotta Warriors in Xian, Suzhou the Venice of China, as well as tragedies such as the Massacre of Nanjing. Furthermore, there were ample opportunities to bond with a diverse group of open minded college students who were also excited about being in China and increasing their intercultural communication via delving into Chinese culture. In addition, as students as well as tourists, we were also able to independently explore our local environment. Despite not being fluent in Chinese, I used this as an outlet to practice my Chinese by interacting with street vendors, students from other countries who were also studying abroad, as well as native Chinese university students who were also in attendance in Nanjing Normal University. The CUNY-BC study abroad trip in China was an intellectually stimulating yet fun experience. I would highly recommend any student interested in study abroad travels to this program.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
China gave me such an appreciation for other cultures.I for one, really embraced the Chinese culture.I began to learn the language and still continuing to learn Chinese post-China.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I had always wanted to go to China, as I study Chinese history and plan on going to graduate school to continue my studies. China exceeded all of my expectations: from the scenery, to the cuisine, to the culture. One cannot receive an education about any place on earth without visiting that place firsthand. I feel that the BC China trip has helped my personal growth as well as educated me in areas that are impossible to explore in a classroom. I advise all students to remember to go to a foreign country with an open mind, and to remember that we represent the United States of America in all ways, and to act accordingly.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Going on the Winter BC in China trip was a wonderful experience for me. I definitely learned more than I had expected. More than just studying the language and culture differences between Americans and the Chinese, I learned a lot about myself as a person. I went on the trip not knowing anyone or how to speak Chinese, and I returned with more good friends than I'd ever had and a better understanding of the language. I surprised myself in the amount of Chinese that I had picked up. I want to not recommend going on the trip to everyone because I want to be selfish and secure myself a spot on the next trip. I'd never do that, however, because I had such a rewarding experience that I know the trip would be beneficial to all who attend. I would advise people who are thinking of going to be open-minded and patient. The culture is significantly different from ours, but it really is beautiful if you take the time to look at it and embrace it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
China was Great!! It was a wonderful and fulfilling experience. I learned so much about the Chinese culture and about the people who live there. Though many things are stated to be different, to actually experience life in China for a month and to see what people in China may see, everyday is an experience in itself. Besides seeing the many beautiful and great sights of China we had much time to ourselves. Many of the students ventured out on our own doing what we love to do best--visit places, shop, party and eat. I would recommend this study aboard program to everyone because besides meeting new people and gaining new experiences you have a story of your own to tell instead of listening to others.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My trip to China was certainly the experience of a life time.Words on a page cannot do justice to the natural beauty and wonders of China.If you are fortunate enough to go on the BC trip to China you will be rewarded with some of the most beautiful and ancient attractions in the world, from the Terra Cotta soldiers to my favorite, the Great Wall.I was personally awed by all of the attractions.Just seeing the sites isn't the only reward.Interacting with the people and culture of China was an experience in itself.The lessons you will take home both culturally and personally will last a life time.I can't stress enough how awesome this experience is.The only things you need to bring with you are an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a thirst for knowledge, are my recommendations to all.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I always wanted to go to China and was very excited when I found this program through Brooklyn College. The best part about this trip was the planned travel to different cities, which is usually not included in any other program. The price was excellent and all the hotels we stayed in were great as well. I learned a lot about Chinese culture, their history, and what it is like to be in a totally different environment from my own. I met a lot of great people and will always remember my study abroad experience in China with Brooklyn College. My advice to those who are planning on going is to learn a few key phrases in Mandarin, so you won't be so lost the first few days. However, the classes definitely help with the language. Don't miss out on this great opportunity to discover China and you don't even have to worry about planning to see everything, because it is all already planned out for you.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deciding to go on the winter study abroad trip in China was a big step for me. I had never been anywhere even remotely close to its location. Sure, I wanted my trip to be a different experience, but being in a land so far away, I really did not know what to expect. Luckily, from the first day in Beijing until our last day in Shanghai I can honestly say that this was the best experience I have ever had. I fell in love with both the culture and the country. Most notable were excursions to the Great Wall and the Temple of Heaven. I have always been interested in architecture and neither of these sights disappointed, to say the least. Moreover, I found the people of China to be generally friendly and I even made a few friends that I still communicate with to this day. The only advice I can offer the future participants of this study abroad trip is to listen to the teachers, especially Professor Lu. They were very knowledgeable and gave me a wealth of information, considering I went to China knowing almost nothing about it except that it was on the other side of the world. If you make a decision to go this summer I promise you this will definitely be a journey you will never forget."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I can hardly begin to tell the story of my cultural experience in one paragraph. The more I think of our dream trip to China, the more I want to write. I am very happy to be a part of Brooklyn College's first excursions to China. The knowledge I gained traveling and studying in China could never be obtained by sitting in lecture halls at Brooklyn College. Studying speech and cross-cultural perspectives in China, gave me the opportunity to explore a lot more than effective communication. The first week of our stay in China, we toured the historical sites of Beijing which included the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, The Great Wall, Tian'anmen Square and many more. We also learned about current affairs such as education and population growth. While traveling in Beijing, we learned about some of the most fulfilling aspects of ancient history. Each site we visited enriched us with a story that linked to the history of the Chinese people. I know that most textbooks on Chinese history could give us a run down on the history, but being there and actually viewing the sites is a tremendous addition to our knowledge that the textbooks could not supply. After studying and traveling to many cities in China, I feel our knowledge gain will be a great accretion to our education. One of the reasons why I think students should participate in this program, is to get a hand on experience of the Chinese culture as they come face to face with the people. One of my most interesting features of the trip was learning about the Ming and Qing dynasty — the wisdom and power of the emperors who reigned in different period truly enriched me with details of what the early history entails.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After wrapping up our tour of Xi'an with shopping and a night on the town, it was time to move onto Nanjing where we would finally get down to business in completing our study tasks. We would also have the opportunity to experience life in the dorm rooms. I truly enjoyed my stay at Nanjing Normal University where we had the opportunity of meeting students from all around the world.Meeting and dining with people of different nationalities broadens my knowledge of different culture, and give me a clearer understanding of cross-cultural perspectives. We study hard during the week and on the weekend we visited more wonderful sites. The highlight of my stay in Nanjing is my visit to the site of the Nanjing Massacre where 300,000 Chinese people were murdered during 1937-1938 by the Japanese Imperial Army. Women were raped and then brutally slaughtered. This brutal killing includes men, women and children. A bell was erected at the gate of this memorial site and is named the Bell of Peace. We visited many other cities while at school in Nanjing and finally it was time to wrap up our trip. We spent the Chinese New Year dining with the people and spending our last dollars on DVDs. Finally the sad moments came when we would leave our new friends behind and move onto Shanghai, one of the true wonders of the world. Now that our studies were completed, it was time to shop until we drop. We bargain every moment we get to stretch our dollars and the better the bargain the more we buy. Finally the moment came when we must give up all the good times and pack our bags and be ready for our departure.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My study abroad experience in China was more than amazing. The sites that we toured were spectacular. The Great Wall was an incredible site. You can see the wall miles and miles from each end. It was also a challenging climb to the higher points of the wall. We also visited incredible huge ancient Chinese Gardens. Since it was winter time, the gardens were not at their full potential beauty, but it would have been even better if we went during the summer time. Remember to bring a camera and lots of film because you will have the opportunities to take memorable pictures that you will keep for the rest of your life. Everyone on the trip made new friends and we enjoyed doing things together as a group. This is a definite friendship making kind of trip. It sounds like a lot of fun but we did learn a lot also. Throughout our trip to different places, we learned a lot of China's long history. You also get to learn and experience the Chinese culture. I think it would be quite important to study the Chinese because the Chinese make up about 1/5 of the world population, so there will be times where you will encounter and work with a Chinese person.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Whether it was learning Chinese numbers through bargaining in Nanjing or practicing my Chinese pronunciation in a cab in Shanghai, China gave me a further sense that I could go anywhere in the world and survive. Every bit of the trip was a learning experience, even when I wasn't prepared for it to be. There were so many barriers, including language and cross-cultural differences. Being there for five weeks, getting lost and meeting new people in every city helped me to better understand and eventually overcome some of those barriers. I think everyone should experience studying abroad at least once in their college career! China is a great start; It's cheap (especially the DVDs), the sites are beautiful and the nightlife is amazing. Don't let the money deter you from going. It's well worth it!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I found the trip to China to be very informative and so memorable to me on many different levels. On the one hand I learned of the customs of the land from witnessing them firsthand. Customs such as bargaining really intrigued me. Through the art of bargaining, I was able to get so many souvenirs with at least a 50% discount if I said the right words and was persistent. On the other hand, as far as education, it was fun and foreign to me. Never before had I actually gotten so close to my professors. On a daily basis I was always in contact with Professor Reguer and Professor Lu. The group even began calling Professor Reguer Mama Reuguer and Professor Lu Baba Lu! We were one big happy family. We all ate meals together and even sang karaoke together! Then on top of that I was learning about Chinese history, practicing Tai Chi and learning Chinese all in China. It doesn't get any cooler than that. The best thing about the trip though was the lasting friendships I made. I am still in daily contact with my roommates and I see the other travelers all at least twice a week. I left for China alone and scared because none of my friends accompanied me on this trip. Now I have almost thirty new friends including a Mama and a Baba. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone looking to have a great vacation, make new friends and experience all the beauty of China firsthand.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After wrapping up our tour of Beijing, we boarded the night train which took us fourteen hours to get to the next city. During those fourteen hours, we had the opportunity to amass with our fellow classmates discussing and sharing the most interesting feature of our stay in Beijing. We talked about our struggle eating with the chopsticks and the way the Chinese people looked at us as if we were God-sent. As our train sped through the rugged terrain, some of us who could not stay asleep gazed out the window at the mountain sides. We also observed some of the brightest stars looking down from the heavens.Finally, we arrived in the beautiful city of Xi'an. This city, adds to our wealth of knowledge. It enriches us with the ancient history of China and opens doors to a wealth of cultural experiences. My most commendable feature of Xi'an was my visit to the pits of the Terra cotta warriors. We learned that the clay warriors were ordered to be built by the emperor to protect his tomb after his death. The clay warriors were used instead of real life people. They were used to keep away evil spirits. We also saw a film which enriched us on the Chinese soldiers in action.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There have been many exciting things I have learned form the tour to China. But, there were only few that I would forget. One of them was the martial arts "Wu Shu" training. Originally, before I got to China, I told myself that there would be no way for me to learn any type of Martial Arts due to time frame of all the events. You would actually be surprised how much freedom you will have, which will help you to explore and have your own leisure time. Anyway, when I got there, Prof. Liu through my request found a martial arts instructor who was more than just an expert; he was also the chair person of Physical Education Department. I had private lessons from since we got there till the last day of the trip. Another thing I would never forget was the excitement of the economy difference. Everything was so cheap! When we went out for a dinner we would pay about $10 total for five to six people in a nice fancy restaurant. Being on this trip, I have learned how lucky I am to be an American. I have seen how hard people work, how poor people live and how hard people try or beg for money. I have learned how to have a basic conversation in Chinese. Learn the strategy of bargaining. And lots lots more. You have to see it to believe it. I would recommend this trip not only to students, but also to family and friends. The reason for that I would say because there is more than it sounds. When I convince those who did not want to attend this trip to go, I would strongly recommend to buy one of those Chinese phrase books and a dictionary.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The BC Study Abroad in China trip was amazing. Not only did I get to run my own research project, but I also learned a lot about Chinese history and was able to practice the Mandarin I had been learning. The best part of the trip was that everyday was like an adventure where you would explore new places and discover new things about the Chinese as well as yourself. I would definitely recommend the trip to anyone who is open-minded and excited about experiencing something different.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I would recommend this trip to others because it is a great way to spend your month off from school and you'll make friends, meet new people, experience a new culture, and have great food! You will not want to return when the month is over. So for those who are thinking about or planning to take this trip, I have this advice: Go! Have fun! And interact with and learn from the people there, get a feel for the history and culture all around you. Don't plan on just being another gawking tourist!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My study abroad trip to China this winter was a fantastic and amazing experience.Our trip allowed us to travel to six different cities.And within each city, we visited historical landmarks, as well as other features, that made that city unique and different from others.By being at the actual sites I was able to learn a lot about China's past and its great leaders.Aside from the historical perspective, I also had the opportunity to partake in the Chinese culture simply by being in their country and walking amongst them.The Chinese have very interesting customs and it was great being able to experience it.When I was there, I tried many different kinds of food and I got to see so many wonderful things.I would definitely recommend this trip to others.China has so much to offer to everyone.I had a terrific time there and I have over 500 photos to prove it!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Jason, and I am currently a student at Cornell University, where I am majoring in psychology, with a minor concentration in ergonomics. The CUNY-BC study abroad in China trip was conveniently held during the 2004-2005 academic winter session for the approximate duration of one month. During this time period, there were ample opportunities to not only learn, but to experience various facets of Chinese culture and history. The experiences I've gleaned on the CUNY-BC study abroad trip in China are invaluable as they have increased my intercultural awareness and appreciation by providing me with a greater respect, understanding, as well as knowledge of Chinese culture.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For five weeks, I was immersed in a culture where people so revere their elders that they give their elders everything with two hands for respect, where they take such leisure in the morning to practice swordsery, tai chi, Chinese dance, and calligraphy in the park, where their traditions have been alive since centuries past, where they have such a unified history that they can all just sit and talk about good old Mao Zhe Dong, where their art and music is and has been unique only to their culture for thousands of years even before the United States of America was even imagined, where their values of the afterlife are embedded in the Forbidden City and the Terracotta Warriors, and where tea and jade bring good health and a long life. It was simply mind-altering.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The summer trip to China was incredible. We got to see and experience a lot of the important historic sites, like the Great Wall. We were also given a chance to experience Chinese life beyond just what tourists see on the over night train rides. They turned out to be a really good experience for me. It didn't seem so great at first, but now, looking back, it wasn't bad at all. I remember looking out the window and seeing so many things we would've never seen if we had taken a plane.
In Nanjing was where the real fun started. We weren't touring China as a tourist; going to the places the tour guide take us, or eating the food they ordered us. This was where we went wherever we wanted to go and ate whatever we felt like eating. It felt good to have that freedom.
Aside from the tours around China, the best part was that we got to do it in a group. At first, most of us didn't know anybody going on the trip, but we all managed to get to know everybody. Everybody on the trip made friends with everybody else and started hangingout together. It was like one big family. Even after the trip is over, we're still calling each other to hang out.
Thank You Professor Lu, for giving us the chance to experience all that we did. Thi trip is something I will always look backon.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Study Abroad in Nanjing China
The China study abroad program offered by Brooklyn College presents me with what I believe to be the finest academic and personal oppurtunity that has ever crossed my path. Now this might sound an ambitious statement, however, it seems apparent that ambition if applied correctly to this opportunity may very well cash itself out as a life changing experience.
You might ask me the same thing that all of my friends and family ask, "why oh why would a Tennessee country boy like you want to go to a backwards Communist nation all the way on the other side of the world?" Of course I don't answer, but the answer is multi-faceted and takes me back to some of the earliest days of my childhood. Life for me was always very simple. Hot summer days in the countryside playing around in the creek. American life is beautiful in its simplicity, but I was taken somewhere else each night that would not only supplement my imagination, but make me yearn to experience the great mysteries that this endless world had to offer. Every night my mother read a different book to me, painting tales in my head of complex lives in complex worlds with cultures and values that seemed comparable to that of alien life. There were stories about kookaburra sitting in the old gum tree, elephants lost in the jungles of Burma, playful fish surviving the many dangers of the mighy Nile, and so on. Yet there was one story, that always had an special effect on me. It was my mother's favorite story when she was a little girl; a simple story, yet so deep it could really be read as a complex insight on the human condition. The name of the book escapes me; the story about poor Chinese boy in charge of a group of ducks on a fishing boat. He would allow the ducks time to play on shore, but if any duck were late by one second coming back to the boat that duck would get caned. Of course, it was a sad story of the young lame duck who always wound up coming back to the boat last, and so always wound up punished by the incredibly strict boy.
The cold cruelness of the boy, I think, was what would make that story striking to me. And so that began my fascination with the culture of a strange mysterious land, about which all I knew were magazine photographs of colorful foggy lagoons and endless dirt paths along the Silk Road. A place defined by wild ancient architecture and ancient traditional spirituality that still pervails to this day. Dragons, martial arts, strange foods, Authoritarianism, I had grown fascinated by the Orient.
I have detailed my initial love for China. And, although this fascination may seem important to one's own connection to the word, it does not explain much in the way of academic reasons for wanting to make China my next step in life. The two passions that have developed in my life are philosophy and politics, two things that tie together in very strange ways sometimes. In my philosophical studies I've discovered that the mode of thought that I most identify with is that of existentialism and phenomenology (some would say "Continental Philosophy"). Most existentialists tend to focus themselves on France and Germany, admittedly at the forefront for this line of study. However, it seems clear to me that China, and the more broadly the greater far East, is a wild card that's managed to skate past modern existential study. What I've been able to piece together through my own personal of Confucious, Lao Tzu, and other prominent Asian philosophers is how very concerned these cultures tend to be with man's being in relation to the world. The only difference between the Asian philosophers and traditional existentialists that jumps out is the level of compassion seen by the Asian philosophers; as opposed to the cold connection of man to society in the German and French schools. In fact, I would argue that the Socialism that seemed to sweep the mindset of the common people in this region of the world is not only a product of the years of maltreatment and abuse by land owners (although a large part of it), but also a product of this collective compassion (note, that this is in no way meant to be an endorsemnt of Socialist political ideology). A good example of this can be seen by the way that Asian cultures tend to treat their elderly with such dignity and respect, as opposed to "having to deal with them," which unfortunately seems to be a trend in the world.
In fact, my claims of Existentialist thought in Chinese philosophy are not unsubstantiated. By now we have all familiarized ourselves with Nietzsche's declaration of Zoroaster's return to Earth. However, a little known fact is how deeply both Nietzsche and Heidegger drew upon older Buddhist and Confucian writings to help form the basis of their own philosophies for man's being in the world. I hope to one day be able to bring this trend in Chinese philosophy to the forefront of modern Existential thought; and build a base for my own contributions to the world of Academia on such a fascinating and colorful cultural and historical tradition as can be found in China.
I must also admit that I do have political aspirations. As a staunch Capitalist, what is taking place right now in China is very exciting. The current transition from authoritarian communism to a strange form of partial-capitalism is unprecendented in world history. There's no doubt that a study of the country's current political systems in relation to its modern history is very important to anyone who wishes to position themself as a future leader in this new more "globalized" world. As a proud American and veteran of our military who wishes to see America remain as dominant nation in the world, a study of the inner workings of the Chinese government is a necessary step for future leaders to ensure the political survival of this nation considering China's current jockeying for world position.
I love the Chinese people, culture, landscape, art, food, etc. I wish to go to China for my first time this year as a first step of continued yearly study in and hopefully one day even living in China for a year at a time. It is a land that has reached out to my soul in so many ways, yet I have never once stepped foot on any foreign soil. I now finally have that oppurtunity, and God willing, the sky is the limit.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other than being a vibrant cultural experience,when hearing about the China trip there is always something greatly overlooked; the freedom. What makes this trip an incredible success andremarkable experience is the freedom to experience thecountry, culture, and people for oneself. As opposed to other school programs which feature quite a bit of hand-holding and an often parental administration forcing everyone to have the same pre-planned experience, the trip to China featured class times and rules that, while responsible, were freeenough to let every individual approach the experience of living in a new country as he or she chose. That freedom to self design your own experience seems like the only rational way to run such a trip.
Not everybody is going to get the same experience outof a new cultural experience, in fact, some mighthate it. However, because on this trip you get out ofit what you put into it, you are not held back bybeing bonded to a group that might fail in their experience. While still having a group to lean on if worse comes to worse, you are free to succeed beyond your wildest imagination with the freedom granted to the individual on the China trip. So,I felt that the way the final three weeks of thetrip were administered were brilliant as far as rulesand classes go.
The structure at the beginning of the trip was necessary to deal with issues of traveling at a timely matter while still seeing the important historical sites that have shaped China for many years. Some have disagreed with me, but I feelthat put the historical sites at the beginning of the trip was the correct approach as it enables you to move from China's past into your experience withthe present. After experiencing the rich history of China, you are then able to measure its effects on modern Chinese society and culture while experiencing Nanjing. From there, it was on toone of the most modern (maybe even futuristic) citiesin the world today, Shanghai; which really felt likean appropriate timeline upon which to experience the nation.
All in all, it may seem like I'm being overly positive or whitewashing what negatives there may have been, I assure the reader that this is notthe case. As unbelievable as it may sound, I can find no reason or nothing to complain about. The trip was a remarkable success and incredily unique experience that I would not have traded foranything else I've done during any summer of my life. Even the things that I have found others to complain about (i.e. the food did not taste very good, itis hard to get around with the language barrier,etc.) are all obvious parts of the experience that one must expect when visiting a new country (namelyone as foreign to us as the PRC), and so when experiencing such difficulties for myself, I was able to find enjoyment in the living the worldfrom another perspective for the first time in my life.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As I planned on minoring in Asian-American studies, I could not pass up the opportunity to participate in Brooklyn College's Study Abroad in China program this past winter. One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Great Wall. It was especially exciting for me to finally get to see it in person, as my parents had described it to me when I was younger, and it was even more immense and beautiful than I had ever imagined. The pictures you'd see in a textbook barely do justice to the Great Wall and the other breathtaking and spectacular sights you'll see when you're actually there in China.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The sites that we saw were just amazing. Between Beijing and Shanghai, a month only felt like a week.It went too fast.I wish I could relive it all again.I will be returning to China next winter and wish that it would be the same because it couldn't possibly get any better.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On my trip to
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------