What inspired you to travel abroad?
I wanted to go abroad to challenge myself. I had never travelled abroad for the purpose of studying and I had never solo travelled before. Going abroad helps expose you to new experiences and challenges. The best part is being able to come back home with a refined mindset on what you want in life.
Scootering
Why did you choose Omeida Chinese Academy?
I chose Omeida Chinese Academy because I found it to be one of the most credible schools in Yangshuo. There were many testimonials online, as well as new posts on their Instagram page. I also watched videos on Youtube about their program and found it to be suitable for my needs.
What was your favorite part about Yangshuo, China?
The best part was knowing the people in local stalls or local jiaozi places. The people make the experience richer and more memorable. I loved walking in Yangshuo and greeting the shop owners. You really get to know people on an individual basis because Yangshuo was a small town.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
The people. Hands down. Omeida has an amazing vibe. There is a student lounge available for students at any time to study or hang. There are local bars where you can create hangouts. Staff will often be open for dinner. The students who I volunteered for were also the sweetest people. More importantly, the staff are always so inclusive and welcoming. I found the weekend outdoor activities also helped me to bond with people outside the classroom, making connections with staff and teachers. We are all one big family. I did not expect to enjoy the study and volunteering as much as I had.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
They were an emotional support. Omeida Academy deals with change every week with people leaving almost every week, and new students entering every week. The most important thing was that the staff were constant and were always ready to help. With any concerns with administration or accommodation, I could send a wechat message to a local program staff member and schedule a meeting shortly after. The staff are always willing to help.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
Stayed longer! Wow, it was such an experience! I would've liked to even see what other volunteering opportunities I could tap into during my stay. This could include online teaching, marketing or one-on-one tutoring.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
Waking up in the most casual attire, rocking flipflops to my local dumpling stall and then walking two minutes to school. Attending school from 9:25am to 12pm, having lunch, having an hour break, and then volunteer teaching from 3pm to 4pm. Afterwards, grabbing dinner and hanging out with my Chinese friends at the local bar.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
Socialising and motorbiking. Anytime I had more than an hour free, I would scooter down to Yulong River. The scenic route never bored me. There was always a different route every time. I could hire my friend's motorbike or rent an electric scooter for only a couple of yuan.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I was in a building, sharing a room with another volunteer. It had a western toilet which was important! It is very minimalist which is what I appreciated too. There was a rusty metal gate I needed to unlock before entry — just a little reminder everyday that I am in China.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Be ready to change. It truly was such a rich experience and particularly a very important trip for my life. You should be open to change too — the language helps you tap into a new understanding of the Chinese culture, and the meaningful bonds you create with the locals make you recognise we are all very similar in many ways.
Would you recommend Omeida Chinese Academy to others? Why?
Yes! Developing a new language in an immersive and supportive environment is what Omeida is best at. I'd highly recommend it!
What do you feel is the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?
Learning a new language and being able to uncover a new way of seeing. I see locals and local customs differently. This shift in perspective and mindset is invaluable to me.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Broadened my perspective. I appreciate the simple things in life. I have motivation to continue my study of Mandarin, and I am excited to travel abroad again for another language study program. The future is only a sketch!
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Building meaningful, genuine friendships with people. Being able to have the time to do that is meaningful travel for me.
