An incredible place to learn language and culture

My time at CLI was truly life-changing. While I was there, my teachers gave me an incredible perspective on life and culture in China, and my fellow students incredible perspective on the life and culture of their countries.

Not only that, I learned Chinese far faster than I thought I possibly could. In my short 3 weeks here, I made more progress than I had in the past 9 months. I went from barely being able to order food to being able to hold (basic) conversations with friends and strangers, and I now feel very confident saying that I speak Chinese.

Outside of the classroom, the teachers, interns, and students are so friendly and welcoming. I quickly felt like I was part of the community and would go eat, drink, hike, explore downtown, take part in tea ceremonies, and just enjoy spending time with them all. They all are really what made the experience so special.

On my last day, after climbing up a mountain in the nearby 七星公园, I looked out at the city and cried knowing that I was leaving tomorrow morning.