Simply Amazing

There are almost no words to even describe it. While the courses were rigorous and the language pledge challenging, my Chinese ability improved a lot (as well as my study habits). We were in class four days a week, which left plenty of time for independent exploration. There were many outings and trips organized by IES, but we were also free to go do our own travel and explore as we pleased. That independence gave us all the ability to travel Beijing in a way that would not have been possible otherwise. It also allowed me to complete my own language research project which took me to all different parts of the city. One of the most awe-inspiring moments was our early-morning Great Wall hike. We got up at 3:30 and hiked to the highest point of the Great Wall to watch the sunrise. We were the only ones up there, and the mountains lay stretched out before us as the sun rose through a layer of morning fog. It’s a grueling hike, but all of the exhaustion melts away as you take in the beautiful site before you. All in all, this trip was life changing, and I’ve grown so much from my experiences. The language pledge really helps to improve your Chinese, as you’re essentially not allowed to speak English (unless you’re a beginning student or don’t know a certain word), and it took my Chinese to the next level!