Alumni Spotlight: Monette Chang

I had Chinese language courses at my school for 4 semesters, and really wanted to learn the language in depth in China. My first time travelling to China was in 2008, and I loved it! I love the culture, language and history there, but at the time, I went as a part of a tour group, and visited only the famous sites. However, I wanted to experience how it would feel to live there long-term, living among the locals and living like a native. The six weeks in China allowed me to stay in the part of Beijing I did not see during my 2008 tour. I still feel that 6 weeks was too short and hope to return soon!

I would have to say the people I met in Beijing made my experience the best it could be. I made so many life-long friends in China, and learned a lot about Chinese local culture through them. Just spending time with them and doing ordinary things that local Chinese college students do, such as going KTV-ing(karaoke), going out to eat freshly grilled Chinese lamb kebabs or Hot Pot, taking afternoon strolls around campus, and exploring Chinese residential neighborhoods, make my memories of Beijing all the more fonder! I know I will keep in touch with these friends, and will be sure to value these relationships!

This experience let me experience first-hand living in that country. I loved it so much. Everything about China fascinates me, the food, the people, the culture, the history… To be honest, I so want to return, and may consider living there long term and finding a job there after graduation! If all goes as plans, I may try to find a business-related job in China or teach English there for a few years. We shall see what the future holds, hopefully it involves China though!