USAC China: Chengdu-Chinese Language and Culture Studies

Based on my experience, the USAC curriculum, while affordable and well-organized, did not provide a strong language challenge. However, this gave me more time to explore Chinese culture and daily life outside the classroom. I also had the opportunity to take extracurricular classes in instruments and archery (paid out-of-pocket), which helped me develop new skills and experiences beyond academics. When I studied abroad, the program had just reopened after being closed for a while due to COVID-19, so I understand there were still areas that needed adjustment. Because it was their first term back, there were fewer field trips than usual. I hope that in the future, the program will offer more excursions and more challenging Chinese language classes. That said, I think USAC did a great job overall, especially in supporting students, addressing any difficulties we faced, and even helping us find information or opportunities when we expressed interest in exploring something new.

I couldn't have chosen a better program than Chengdu, China. I truly had the most rewarding experience. Not only did I get to accomplish my goals to learn Mandarin and experience Chinese culture firsthand, but I also got to see giant pandas (my favorite animal), create lifelong friendships, and grow tremendously as an individual. It was the best summer, I've ever had. I cannot wait to go back in the future!

I was lucky to be placed in the wonderful city of Chengdu. Food was unbelievable, the people were so nice, the culture so rich. I met some awesome local friends who Taught me how to play MaJiang, drink real tea, eat hotpot, how to KTV. I also had amazing teachers that help my Chinese improve leaps and bounds, taught me how to cook Sichuan food, pushed me to perform a Chinese rap song in front of a thousand people, And learned more deeply about The culture. Lastly the friends I made on my trip will last a lifetime. I just recently stayed at one of my classmates apartment across the country! We climbed mountains together, went to chongqing, taught English in a small village, took an herbal bath deep in the mountains at the Yao minority village, and drank with the head of the village. I couldn’t be more thankful. I’m already planning my next trip.