Life with Chinese host family

I signed up for three-month EPC program. My host child Yoshimi was 5 years old when I came. he was so active just like most boys. He spoke basic English and was enough for us to communicate at a basic level and it didn’t affect his interest in talking and playing with me. As time went on, his English skills and our overall communication skills improved greatly, which I was quite happy about.

EPC was so helpful and supportive during my stay in China. Though I was prepared with culture shock, it didn’t cause me any problem with EPC’s program training. When I understood more about Chinese customs, it was really easy to communicate with my host parents and the locals. I was lucky enough to spend a Chinese New Year with my family. They took me for trips to Zhangjiajie (for movie Avatar), Phenix City (ancient buildings that have lasted for above 300 years), and parents’ hometowns. Absolutely fantastic trips! I will cherish these memories for the rest of my life!

The mandarin classes offered by EPC are fantastic as I went out to China with no previous knowledge of the language but came away being able to communicate with basic mandarin. The cultural events are always very fun and enjoyable. I got Chinese Calligraphy training, tea art ceremony, city tour to Hakka Cantonese town, and etc.

The only regret I have that I couldn’t schedule a longer stay with my host family and EPC. I’m already missing Yoshimi, my host family and my friends in EPC. I will come back and visit all of you for sure.