Learning Abroad Highlight | BEVERLY CHEUNG

Q: How has this experience prepared you for career progression and promotion?

A: My experience abroad has helped prepare me for my career progression by helping me immerse myself in different cultures and by giving me an opportunity to meet people from all around the world. I want a career that is based internationally; it is an incredible experience to see another part of the world and meet people from different countries. Meeting people from all over the world is a good way to prepare myself for working internationally as I will be fortunate enough to be working with people who are from all around the world in my future career.

“The exchange semester in Tsinghua University in Beijing relates to my passions and interests by giving me an opportunity to independently travel and experience university life in a different country. I am passionate about traveling and experiencing new cultures, along with learning new languages. Being a beginner at the Chinese language and being given an opportunity to study the Chinese language in Beijing has been an incredible opportunity to fulfill my personal goals of becoming fluent in Mandarin and of seeing more of the world.”

Q: Did any specific aspects of this experience stand out to you? Which ones? Why?

A: During my experience here in Beijing, something that really stands out to me is the diversity of international students at Tsinghua University. There are a lot of people from Asia and Europe here on exchange, it is really refreshing to meet people from across the world. Being in a different environment with people that have different upbringings is a very fulfilling experience that opens your eyes to worldwide empathy and perspectives.

Q: What relationships have you developed with people outside of your program?

A: As the only person on exchange from the U at Tsinghua this semester, I have made many close friends with vastly different backgrounds from around the world. Meeting people from diverse backgrounds and with lives that you are not accustomed to is an indescribably enriching experience. I have been able to make some lifelong friends, and I have met people that I would not have ever encountered being at the U. Studying abroad gives a pathway to meet like-minded people who are open-minded and curious about the world and what it has to offer. Along with friendship, the university’s administration are also people that I am able to communicate and interact with. Becoming students of professors from other countries is such an enriching experience that helps you learn more about your learning style, and the teaching style of other countries.

Q: What is your experience with navigation while learning abroad?

A: Navigation when you are not familiar with the language is one of the most difficult obstacles when learning abroad. Especially when you are unfamiliar with the root of the written language as well. As the Chinese language is a completely different writing system than English, navigation is reasonably difficult. However, after lots of patience, you are able to safely find your way around. It is important to attempt to prepare yourself with the language prior to leaving for abroad as knowing the language at least a little bit will enhance your experience immensely.

Q: What is your experience communicating with locals abroad? Are language barriers present? How do you handle those barriers?

A: Communicating with locals in Beijing is an interesting experience for someone who isn’t very familiar with the language. Language barriers are absolutely present, however practicing the language every day will tremendously enhance your experience; from the interactions with locals, exchanges in stores, traveling within the country, etc. working little by little each day to become familiar with the language will combat the language barrier.

Q: Is learning abroad something you would recommend?

A: Learning abroad is something that I absolutely recommend. No matter what trajectory someone wants to go in, there is no experience that could replicate the emotions felt and lessons learned during a learning abroad program. The people that you meet, the new perspectives that you gain, the new world that you get to step into, is such a priceless privilege.

Q: What is your advice for students preparing to go into a learning abroad experience?

A: It is absolutely crucial to go into this experience with an open mind. A learning abroad experience will be unique to each and every person, and being open to new experiences and perspectives will make the experience as fulfilling as it can be. I think preparation for the language is something to be noted as well. Overall, be open to change and to experiences that will help you grow.

Learn about Beverly’s Experience with Humanities Scholars.

 

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