Here’s a crash course for this program. First part is carbs! If you’re trying to stick to a diet (in the beginning at least)... stop playing yourself. I, a self-acclaimed fitness fellow, had to put this one aside. Quite frankly, it wasn’t hard because I made no effort to resist. Part two, hydrate! I realized that not having a bottle in my hand at all times was honestly some form of masochism. So I learned: don’t hurt yourself, drink lots of water and enjoy the buns!
Experiencing Guangzhou was an outstanding opportunity. I was full of nerves and uncertainty before arriving. This trip is my first time ever being out of the country, in a place so different than the world I’m used to. However, these feelings changed very quickly once I got off the bus. Or more accurately, the next day after the first night I got off the bus. Stepping out of the CAN airport wearing my long sweatpants and Duke long-sleeve, I was poorly dressed for the conditions. The attire that kept me nice and cozy on the cold flight almost catalyzed a spontaneous combustion during my walk to find a taxi (with three large pieces of luggage and my backpack to lug around). As for the taxi ride, I’ll only say that I just thank my God to have seen another day.
The next day was when the real fun began. The faculty/ staff at each of the three schools we visited welcomed us with widely open arms. It showed me that people are actually happy for me to be in China. I give so much thanks to the assigned buddies all of us Duke students got. My buddies were such bright, informative kids. They showed me around the schools that they were so proud to attend and answered all of our questions. It reminded me about how valuable education is. I know there were many awkward moments and instances of lost understanding, but it was ALL worth it because of the friendships we made. The schools were so beautiful and impressive. I’ll never forget the beautiful garden we saw, with a pond and fish. There was also a petting zoo with the cutest little motley crew of dogs I’d ever seen. I could really tell that the students appreciated attending these schools and that the schools were creating such a superb educational environment for the kids. These interactions were our first real experiences with the language barrier. Although many of the kids were very good at English, certain ideas were slightly too complex. I think that this only worked to prepare us for what the next few days/weeks/months would be like.
The heat takes some time to get used to, though the great connections I made over these few days were an effective distraction. I really appreciate Win-Win Education for allowing us to come and take part in this amazing cultural exchange program in Guangzhou. The tours, activities, and the food were just great. Both the Duke Students and the Zhixin students were able to interact with another culture that they may or may not have had experience with in the past. The ferry ride was another very special opportunity for me. I loved getting to see the beautiful sights, like Canton Tower, and meet more students and their parents. We all took many pictures that we’ll cherish for a long time. Although the Guangzhou students are not the ones we’d be working with for the two months, I appreciate their time very much. They gave us our first real taste of school life in China.
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