What inspired you to travel abroad?
I have always been fascinated by different cultures, and China’s rich history and language intrigued me.
I wanted to challenge myself by stepping out of my comfort zone and fully immersing in a new environment. Learning Mandarin in China felt like the best way to experience the language firsthand while also exploring a completely different way of life.
Why did you choose Go Abroad China Ltd.?
I chose Go Abroad China (GAC) because of its well-structured language programs, immersive cultural experiences, and strong local support system.
Unlike other programs, GAC combines language learning with real-world practice, making it more effective. Their flexible program options and strong reputation reassured me that I’d have a great experience.
What was your favorite part about China?
My favorite part about China was the perfect mix of tradition and modernity.
Whether I was exploring ancient temples, enjoying street food, or experiencing high-tech innovations, there was always something exciting to discover. The people were warm and welcoming, and the vibrant energy of my host city made every day feel special.
Majestic
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
The immersive nature of the program made my experience extraordinary. I wasn’t just learning Mandarin in a classroom—I was using it in daily life.
Whether I was ordering food, bargaining at markets, or chatting with locals, every interaction became a learning opportunity. The friendships I made with both locals and fellow students also made it unforgettable.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff were incredibly helpful from the moment I arrived. They assisted with housing, cultural adjustments, and even helped me navigate language barriers.
Whenever I had questions or concerns, they were just a call away. They also organized activities and excursions, making it easy to explore China without feeling lost.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
If I could do one thing differently, I would have traveled more within China.
There are so many beautiful cities and cultural landmarks, and while I visited some, I wish I had planned more weekend trips to places like Guilin, Chengdu, or Xi’an. Also, I would have pushed myself to speak Mandarin even more with locals.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
A typical day started with morning Mandarin classes, where we learned grammar, pronunciation, and conversational skills.
Afternoons were spent exploring the city, practicing Mandarin with locals, or joining cultural activities like calligraphy and cooking classes. Evenings were for trying new foods, socializing, or studying at a cozy café.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
During my free time, I loved wandering through markets, trying authentic Chinese food, and visiting historical sites like temples and museums.
I also enjoyed making friends with other international students and locals, exchanging cultures, and practicing Mandarin in real-life situations. Night markets and scenic parks were my favorite hangout spots.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in a shared apartment with other students, which was great because it provided a balance of independence and community.
I liked that I had my own space but also had roommates to share experiences with. The location was convenient—close to public transport, restaurants, and my school—making daily life easy.
Timeless
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Future participants should know that this program is truly immersive—so be ready to embrace the experience fully!
Step out of your comfort zone, engage with locals, and practice Mandarin as much as possible. Also, China’s culture is different, so keep an open mind and be willing to adapt to new customs and ways of life.
Would you recommend Go Abroad China Ltd. to others? Why?
Absolutely! GAC offers a well-rounded experience with language learning, cultural immersion, and strong local support.
The teaching methods are effective, and the activities make learning fun. Plus, being in China while learning Mandarin accelerates fluency. It’s a perfect program for anyone wanting to truly experience Chinese culture.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is personal growth. You gain independence, adaptability, and a global perspective.
Being in a new culture challenges you to think differently, step out of your comfort zone, and build confidence. It also opens doors to new friendships and professional opportunities worldwide.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Since returning home, I feel more confident in my Mandarin skills and have a deeper appreciation for different cultures.
My experience has also made me more open-minded and adaptable. I now see the world differently, and I feel more motivated to continue exploring, learning, and applying my experiences to future opportunities.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel is about more than just sightseeing—it’s about immersing yourself in a new culture, building connections, and growing as a person.
It means stepping outside your comfort zone, embracing new experiences, and allowing those experiences to shape your perspective on the world. It’s about learning, adapting, and making memories that last a lifetime.
