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Steve Watanaskul
Steve Watanaskul is an Ambassador who studied abroad in China.
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.
One cultural experience that I had on my trip that made a lasting impression on me was when I taught English to Chinese people of all ages. Since I am a very quiet person when it comes to huge crowds, this gave me the confidence in public speaking skills as well as social skills to become successful in the future. It also taught me patience, since everyone knows how hard it is to learn another language.
Why did you choose the program in which you participated?
I really wanted to go somewhere way out of my comfort zone. I realized that China is totally different from the United States in culture and especially in language. Also, I heard great stories from my sister when she went to China on her study abroad program in 2005.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
One of the greatest experiences of my life. I did not only learn how to become more of an independent person, but learned the culture and history of China. I saw how prosperous China can be as well as how harsh China can be, which makes me think of how grateful I am to have a loving family and a roof to live under.
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
This trip really helped me to become a more independent and responsible person of my actions and decision making. I am now more open-minded on how other people think of us as Americans and have a better sense of what is going on in the rest of the world. I also learn how it feels to be a foreigner in another country. Because of this, I learned how to become more appreciative of other people who come from a different country.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
Experience the culture as much as you can while in China because, before you know it, those four months will go by quickly. Also, do not be scared of making new friends because they are a lot of help when it comes to independent travels or studies.