Why did you decide to study abroad with Education Abroad Network in China?
Devon: I probably looked into a dozen or more study abroad programs before finally deciding on The Education Abroad Network. After studying the language, I knew China was going to be my destination, and TEAN’s choice between a couple of China’s top 4 universities, Fudan and Tsinghua, initially drew my interest towards their program. But looking at the sticker price of TEAN compared to some programs made me hesitant. Thankfully, my inner accounting major took over and I really compared what each program offered for the cost, and discovered that TEAN’s price was relatively more inclusive.
Besides a fully furnished apartment, the price also included a 5-day orientation in Beijing that ended up being a fantastic way to acclimate to the adventure ahead (not to mention the world class bacon at the hotel). The weekend excursion to the deserts of Inner Mongolia offered an unforgettable chance to experience a part of China I never even knew existed. On top of this, TEAN has an in country employee available to keep things running smoothly and deal with any unexpected issues. After learning all of this, the final deciding factor was their expansive list of class choices. With my study abroad taking place during my senior year, having the option to select from a list of 50 classes compared to selecting from a list of 5 or 6 made all of the difference.
What made this experience unique and special?
Devon: It’s difficult not to have a unique experience when spending 4 months in China. Shanghai is a world class city, and another 4 months still wouldn’t have uncovered all it offers. Every day presented its own unique challenge. I personally felt that TEAN’s program created an opportunity and environment to take advantage of the unique situation I found myself in. Through a combination of the program led events and excursions to the worry free atmosphere that resulted from the support staff’s efforts, my mind was freed up to focus on both school and experiencing the new life that surrounded me.
Living in Shanghai made me feel like I was standing in the middle of a bridge connecting two worlds. China’s recent rise to economic power and influence is evidenced all throughout the city. But amongst the development and innovation, China’s thousand year old culture and traditions are impossible to miss. Shanghai’s modern infrastructure set a great staging ground to jump across the country and experience the diverse cultures and landscapes that aren’t normally pictured when looking at China. The ability to not only experience all of this, but to have the chance to experience it with fellow students, in and outside of TEAN, made it that much more unforgettable.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Devon: Each time I travel, I’m amazed at how it impacts me. Even the simplest of trips offers an opportunity to expand my perspectives, experience new things, and learn to deal with unexpected circumstances. Studying abroad took the lessons of the road and integrated them into my daily life. So far, China is the most out of my element I’ve ever been. One of TEAN’s favorite sayings, “It’s not wrong, it’s just different,” was a constant reminder to immerse myself in the culture around you.
The language barrier and obvious differences in culture stretched my ability to adapt every day. In an ever connected world, the ability to manage a situation under unfamiliar circumstances is incredibly important. Since studying abroad, I’ve noticed an increased ability to handle changing situations and comprehend the world around me. Employers have noticed this as well. I can’t fully verify it, but I believe this experience was partly responsible for me landing an internship in the international department of the company I work for. I think my time in China helped make me a more rounded person, and I can’t wait to see what doors it opens even further down the road.
What is one piece of advice you would offer someone considering interning abroad in Thailand?
Devon: I would advise anyone studying abroad to make a real, conscience effort to experience the new things around you. It’s easy to convince yourself that just being surrounded by something classifies as experiencing it. I found myself occasionally falling into this trap while I was abroad. I would become comfortable in my situation, and would find myself losing my drive to participate in the culture and continue to push myself outside my comfort zone. I’m a naturally reserved person, and based on my experience I encourage others who are similar to actively seek scenarios they wouldn’t normally seek.
Don’t let yourself fall into the “layover” trap. Everyone knows hanging out at an airport for a few hours doesn’t count as visiting a city. Similarly, having your address listed as half way across the world doesn’t necessarily mean you’re truly living in and experiencing your new home. Even the smallest steps outside what you’re comfortable with broadens your capacity to step even further out the next time. Think of your time abroad like a rubber band, and capitalize on each opportunity to stretch it. Every kid knows that each time you fling a rubber band across the room at your sister, it gets wider and wider. Really experiencing the local culture isn’t always the easiest or most convenient thing to do, but it’s by far the most rewarding.