My first time abroad!

I had wanted to visit China for a long time, and the absolute best way to immerse yourself in the language and culture is by living with a host family. The host family I stayed with was actually my favorite part of the trip. They were incredibly welcoming and provided me with everything I needed and more, making sure I was comfortable in their house and outside of it, getting around in a foreign city by myself. When I didn't have classes they would even go out of their way to show me things around the city I would never have known about otherwise. They were like a second family and soon Beijing felt like a second home too. The school was conveniently located five minutes away from a subway stop and a street filled with places to eat between classes. (There's a lady there who sells the BEST milk tea.) The teachers are warm and accommodating, and make sure the level you're placed in is a good fit for you, and not too challenging. (Just make sure to get to your classes nice and early!) The school's guide was great, we always had activities to sign up for - everything from a day hiking the Great Wall to a three-day train trip across the country to Xi'an. I'd recommend you to do whatever you can fit into your schedule! It'll just add to the completely awesome and unique experience.