A recently published study by the Institute of International Education sites that of the over 800,000 students that come to America to study every year, over 20% of them are from China. Similarly, the number of U.S. students that are going to study abroad has also increased. This should be a sign that if you’re longing for adventure or just starting college; China should be at the top of your list for studying abroad.
With thousands of years of history and tradition, China is an amazing place to study abroad. It is huge, diverse and beautiful, making it an attractive destination for inquisitive students. But, there is more: the unprecedented economic development the country is still undertaking adds an extra degree of spice to this fascinating nation.
Learning about it all can be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences anyone can have during their academic career. Whether it’s through a study abroad program, homestay, language intensive or any other avenue, studying in China will be an invaluable experience, perhaps, not fully appreciated until returning home to the United States.
What To Do
For many students, studying in China will be like entering a new world that is entirely different from America in many respects. But, these differences are what make China so unique and special. By choosing to study in China, American students can gain the opportunity to grow and contribute to the cultural sharing going on between the U.S. and China.
In that same token, China and the Chinese people might appear more similar to Americans than most might think. I’ll never forget the first time I saw a group of Chinese old timers sitting around a table and playing cards. It reminded me of a scene strait out of my hometown.
A lot of people are scared away from studying in China because of the language. Don’t worry you can do it! Spoken Mandarin is fairly easy and straightforward. While the characters can be tough to master, they are simplified for easier learning. Additionally, there are numerous courses designed to combine Chinese language courses with lessons on culture and history.
Learning about Chinese culture and history is just as important as learning the language. Understanding the history and culture also goes a long way in trying to understand a vast country like China. While command of the language is important; to truly understand China, learning about its history and appreciating its culture is absolutely imperative. The best study abroad programs are a combination of the two areas.
Other programs might be geared to a more focused area of study. It really depends on the institution and what they have to offer. There’s a smorgasbord of choices in this vast country. There are tons of scholarships for funding and most importantly, these classes are in English!
That’s right, these classes are taught in English. Often by professors who studied and may have even taught in the United States. In China, I studied under professors who had previously taught at George Washington University and Harvard. Professors from some of these exclusive US institutions moved back to China when they missed home, improving educational opportunities.
Where To Go
Finding the right program is key to having a wonderful learning experience in China. Another key factor is location. Is a big important city like Shanghai or Beijing the place to be? Or would another city and region be better? Of course, the answer to that question depends on what you’re looking for.
Like most major cities, the Pearl of the Orient and Beijing come at a price. They do boast the best universities but they also boast bigger price tags. Cost of living is more expensive than any of the other cities in China. Not to worry, there are still many amazing locations waiting to be discovered.
Shenzhen is a major center for economic activities in southern China. Those focused on learning about business in China should seriously consider it. Wenzhou, and Tianjin are other good options too.
Nanjing or Xi’an also offer appealing locations for study. Both are very historic with few foreigners, which can sometimes be a very good thing. Foreign students are usually treated as local celebrities. Dozens of people will want their picture taken with you while bars and restaurants will provide you with special perks and services in an attempt to attract more local customers. It might sound crazy, but it happens.
For those interested in technology, Wuhan, the Silicon Valley of China is the place to go. Optic Valley hosts several prestigious universities with cutting edge programs. This is the technological heart of China. For Americans wanting to get a foothold into this sector of China’s rapidly growing economy, this is the ideal place to start.
Living in China can be absolutely exhilarating. Don’t miss out on the experience of a lifetime and choose China as your study abroad destination. When the dream is over and your semester is done, it will leave you longing for more. And, hopefully, you might just come back.
Ryan Todd is a History & East Asian Studies graduate from Pepperdine University. He has extensive experience teaching and traveling in the Asia-Pacific and currently resides in Taiwan.
