East China Normal University organized a summer school program, inviting students from the United States to explore Chinese culture. Three participants share their reflections.

Cesar Ulises Gonzalez Flores

For Cesar Ulises Gonzalez Flores, the most unforgettable moment of the summer was stepping onto East China Normal University for the first time. Strolling beneath the shade of plane trees, he was captivated by the campus's tranquility, beauty, and distinctive atmosphere.

He joined the program with great anticipation, eager to discover Shanghai, a world-class international metropolis. While impressed by the city's vibrancy, he also appreciated its quieter side. The experience deepened his understanding of local life in Shanghai and broadened his perspective on China's cultural diversity.  

During the program, he strengthened his Chinese skills and grew more confident in communicating with local people. He also found that the teachers were passionate and inspiring, encouraging students to think critically and explore various contemporary topics that were rarely seen in other Chinese programs.  

He summed up his experience at ECNU in two words: fulfilling and exploration. Beyond the comprehensive courses, he immersed himself in the rhythm and charm of city life. To him, the program was not just an academic journey but also a bridge connecting him with the cultural essence of one of the world's most dynamic cities.

Corey Benjamin Partridge

Before joining the program, Corey Benjamin Partridge wasn’t sure what to expect. But his time in China proved transformative. "Being out here has been absolutely amazing,"  he said.

Significant progress in his Chinese language skills, a deeper cultural understanding, and the thrill of exploring Shanghai made the experience feel almost surreal.

The courses, though demanding, provided him with practical knowledge that he could immediately apply in real conversations beyond the classroom. While not yet fluent, his Chinese has, in his words, "improved exponentially." 

After years of Chinese culture study through high school and university courses, living with it firsthand has been especially rewarding. From savoring local cuisine to staying with a host family, he cherished every moment.

The city's dynamic pace offered countless opportunities to meet new people and practice Chinese in authentic settings. "Living in Shanghai has been amazing. It honestly feels like a home away from home," he said. 

Andrew Patrick Hagerman

When Andrew Patrick Hagerman signed up to study abroad in Shanghai with the Council on International Educational Exchange, his primary motivation was to fulfill his university degree requirements as a Chinese major student. With a strong desire to advance his language learning, he chose CIEE's accelerated language program in Shanghai.

At first, his focus was purely academic. Yet he soon discovered that living in Shanghai and traveling across China offered invaluable benefits beyond the classroom. These experiences not only deepened his understanding of the language but also enriched his appreciation of Chinese culture.

Before coming to China, his reading and writing skills were far stronger than his speaking and listening abilities. After two months of immersion in a Chinese-speaking environment, he made notable progress in oral and auditory proficiency and grew more confident in all areas of language use.

A significant factor in his transformation was his homestay experience. Living with a local family provided him with firsthand insight into daily life and customs in China. Additionally, traveling to various provinces allowed him to engage with people from diverse backgrounds and learn about their lives. These interactions helped him understand how modernization coexists with historical heritage in contemporary China.

Some of Andrew's most cherished memories came from his travels across China. With convenient transportation, from city subways to high-speed trains, he was able to explore widely and immerse himself in different settings. 

If asked to capture his experience in two words, Andrew would choose understanding and realization. He gained a deeper understanding of both Chinese culture and the language, and he also realized that his career aspirations are attainable. The skills and insights he acquired will support his goal of working in both America and China.

Andrew's connection with China will not end with this program, and the impact of this experience will stay with him, encouraging him to further dive into Chinese cultural explorations. 

Source: Official WeChat account of Global Education Center of ECNU at "ecnugec"