Program Reviews

The GAC High School Program gave me more than just language skills—it gave me confidence, independence, and a deeper understanding of China. The classes were intensive but rewarding, and the teachers always encouraged participation. The extracurriculars, like calligraphy, tea ceremonies, and city tours, brought the culture to life. Living and learning in China helped me connect with locals and feel part of the community. I highly recommend this program to anyone serious about mastering Mandarin and hoping for a better high school experience in China.

Taking a gap year through GAC was the best decision I made after high school. I spent time improving my Mandarin at a top university while also interning at a local startup. The balance between language learning and real-world work was perfect. I learned about myself, Chinese culture, and made lifelong friends. The GAC team was always there, whether I had questions about classes or weekend travel. I returned home ready for university and life with a much broader perspective. Overall supportive, amazing and specially yummy yummy Chinese food.

Staying with a host family while studying Mandarin made a huge difference in my fluency and cultural understanding. Every day I had the chance to use what I learned in class at home—whether over meals or daily routines. My teachers were passionate and patient, and the curriculum was designed for real-life application. GAC also organized amazing cultural activities, which made learning fun and memorable. This wasn’t just a language program—it was a full immersion experience. I think GAC made it easy for international students to come and visit China for unforgettable experiences.

This internship was a pivotal moment in my career. I interned at a well-known tech firm in Shanghai and was able to work directly with seasoned professionals. The exposure to international business culture and real-world challenges helped me grow both technically and personally. The program staff ensured everything—from housing to visa support—was smooth. The Mandarin lessons and weekend excursions were bonuses that added so much value. I came back more confident, skilled, and globally minded. I would highly recommend GAC for a better and unforgettable experience.

I joined the GAC Gap Year Program hoping to learn Chinese and explore a new culture, but I ended up gaining so much more. The program was a perfect combination of language immersion and professional development. I studied Mandarin at a respected university and interned with a startup in Beijing focused on green tech—something I never imagined doing at my age.

Living with a Chinese host family helped me understand the culture on a deeper level, and I felt truly welcomed. I also made friends from all over the world, and we explored everything from the Great Wall to hidden street markets together.

This gap year helped me grow academically, professionally, and personally. I now feel more prepared for university and inspired to pursue international opportunities in the future. I’d recommend this program to anyone ready for a real adventure with real impact.

As a high school student, I was nervous but excited about the idea of studying abroad. Choosing the High School Abroad in China program with Go Abroad China was the best decision I’ve made. From the moment I arrived, I felt supported and welcomed. The staff helped me adjust to my new surroundings, and the host family I stayed with was incredibly kind and made me feel like one of their own.

The Chinese language classes were fun and interactive—not like normal school at all! We got to visit local high schools, participate in traditional activities like calligraphy and martial arts, and explore amazing cities like Beijing and Shanghai. I made friends from both China and around the world, and I learned to be more independent, confident, and open-minded.

This program wasn’t just about learning a language—it was about discovering a new culture, challenging myself, and growing up in the best way possible. If you’re a high schooler thinking about doing something different, I say go for it!

Studying Chinese while living with a host family in Beijing was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. The language classes at the university were well-structured, with passionate teachers who made learning fun and effective. What really made it special was returning home each day to a Chinese family who welcomed me like one of their own.

Every meal was a cultural lesson, every conversation helped reinforce what I learned in class, and every weekend adventure—whether to a local market or historic site—deepened my appreciation for Chinese culture. The support from the GAC team was consistent and thoughtful throughout the program.

This wasn’t just about language learning; it was about building connections and gaining a deeper understanding of China from the inside. I would absolutely recommend this program to anyone looking for a rich, immersive study experience.

Interning through Go Abroad China was one of the best steps I’ve taken toward my career goals. I was placed with a Fortune 500 company in Beijing, where I assisted the business development team. I got real hands-on experience, built strong connections, and learned how to work in a global setting.

What made it unique was the balance between professional development and cultural immersion. The Mandarin classes, networking events, and weekend excursions made the entire experience exciting and memorable. The support team was always available and truly cared about our progress.

This program gave me clarity on my career path, boosted my confidence, and added real weight to my CV. I recommend it to anyone looking for more than just an internship—this is the full package.

Joining the high school program in China was the best decision of my life. I not only improved my Chinese drastically, but also made friendships that I’ll never forget. The classes were fun and interactive—way better than what I expected—and the cultural activities like visiting temples, cooking Chinese food, and doing calligraphy made learning super exciting.

The homestay experience was my favorite part. Living with a Chinese family helped me understand the culture on a deeper level and gave me the confidence to speak Mandarin every day. The program staff were really friendly and made sure we felt safe and supported at all times.

If you’re a high school student looking for an unforgettable adventure that actually teaches you something valuable, this is it. I returned home more independent, more culturally aware, and with a new love for Chinese culture.

My gap year in China through GAC gave me more than I ever expected. I started off with intensive Chinese classes in Shanghai, then transitioned to an internship at a design company. It was the perfect mix—study in the mornings, real work experience in the afternoons, and cultural immersion throughout.

The homestay option helped me adapt faster and practice Mandarin every day. From dumpling-making nights to professional mentorship, every moment felt purposeful. I learned how to navigate a new culture, push myself in a work environment, and find clarity in my career goals. I’d absolutely recommend this to anyone considering a meaningful gap year.