I joined the GAC Gap Year Program

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.