Study Abroad and Domestic Study Away

你好！Hello from Shanghai! I’m currently studying Chinese language and culture at Shanghai Normal University through USAC. I was adopted from China at a young age and this my first time returning. It’s only been one month and I have made so many unforgettable memories with friends! Even though Shanghai is in it’s coldest season, it’s so warm compared to Chicago. I don’t miss the Chicago winter at all. Some classes I’m taking include Chinese Language, Calligraphy, and Tai Chi. My minor is in Chinese, so this has been an excellent opportunity to improve my language skills. Navigating Shanghai is a breeze and it’s filled with high end shopping malls, delicious restaurants and food stalls, and of course beautiful parks and traditional architecture. One of my favorite things about Shanghai are the many friendly street cats.  
One of the places I travelled to was Beijing! We went during the Lunar New Year, so everything was decorated and people came from all over to celebrate. I was able to watch firecrackers from the Great Wall, visit the Temple of Heaven, and explore the Forbidden Palace. 
I was even able to celebrate my 21st Birthday in Shanghai by sharing Hot Pot, a classic Chinese dish. Hot Pot is characterized by a boiling pot of (usually spicy) soup in which you cook raw ingredients yourself! It’s a social experience that I love doing with my friends. Sharing, or family style meals, is very common. I love being able to try many dishes with my friends instead of having to only choose one.  
So far I’ve fallen in love with Shanghai! I will always be grateful to USAC, Lake Forest College, and a special thank you to the Margret Pavelka scholarship for allowing me to go on such a wonderful journey.  
 
谢谢，再见！ 
 
Jinhua at the Great Wall