最好的夏天：My best Summer in Beijing!

Approaching the end of my college career, I knew I would be disappointed in myself if I never took the opportunity to study abroad. Despite my determination to get out and see the world, I was terrified. Going out of my comfort zone on my own was not something I was accustomed to, and given that I am pursuing a Chinese minor, it only made sense to go to one of the furthest places possible: Beijing, China. This choice was easily one of the best decisions of my life. From the moment I was accepted into the program, the CET staff were very attentive to my every question and concern. They guided me through the typically challenging visa process, booking plane tickets, and making sure I packed everything I needed. Upon arrival, the feeling of support only increased. The onsite CET staff are quick to serve as your friend, mentor, and sometimes parent figure if you need them to. The adjustment to life in Beijing becomes a smooth and straightforward process as CET staff guide you through it. That is until one of the scariest parts of the program begins: the Language Pledge. While this pledge does not affect the support you receive from staff, the onset of the pledge for me personally was the rockiest part of my trip. Dedicating yourself to speaking only the language you're learning with people of various levels is as hard as it sounds. However, it is truly rewarding. The teaching staff at CET are devoted to giving you everything you need to improve your Chinese skills and find a place in which you can live your daily life in Chinese. Alongside the help in the classroom, CET Beijing offers language acquisition opportunities coupled with intangible cultural heritage experiences. With two overnight trips and multiple weekend activities, you have the chance to see so much of what China has to offer. Coming back to the United States, I not only feel confident in my Chinese language skills but also have a widened worldview and a deep appreciation for other cultures.