A 2015 joint choir performance at Lincoln High School in Tacoma, Washington state, where United States and Chinese students sang in both languages, has helped spark a long-running effort to strengthen youth exchanges between the two countries.

The performance inspired Zhuang Hanjie, a Chinese-American, to co-found the US-China Youth and Students Exchange Association. The association has facilitated visits to China for more than 1,000 US teenagers.

What began with students from Lincoln High School later expanded to include multiple schools around the city of Tacoma, with growing interest among US schools seeking similar opportunities.

Confronting prevalent stereotypes among US students about China, Zhou often encourages participants to "listen to those who've been there, and you'll find your answer".

According to Zhou Shuqi, co-chair of the US-China Youth and Students Exchange Association, students often return from China with significantly changed perspectives.

"They're completely changed," he said. "The students who have been to China have very positive feedback," Zhou said. "They share these views with their families, friends, and even on the internet, amplifying the impact of the trips through word of mouth."

The impact of these exchanges goes beyond cultural immersion. Students often form lasting friendships with their Chinese peers.

In some cases, the experience has influenced educational choices, with two US youths later enrolling at Peking University.

The association uses a selective process to identify suitable candidates. It evaluates students based on academic performance and character, conducting brief interviews to gauge their motivation and the potential impact of the trip.

Two key questions guide the selection: "Why do you want to go to China?" and "How will this trip to China impact your growth and life?" Zhou said the program is treated as a serious experience rather than a casual trip, noting its potential to shape students' perspectives and future paths.

While acknowledging broader geopolitical complexities, Zhou remains optimistic about the future of such exchanges.

"The influence of China and the US on the world stage is enormous," he said. "If we can promote more interaction between Chinese and US youths, maybe when they grow up, they can play a positive role in China-US relations. It can only be beneficial, not harmful, for both countries if more and more US youths can go to China for exchanges."

Sources: Shanghai People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, Wenhui Daily