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Victoria Ly
Victoria Ly is an Ambassador who studied abroad in China.
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.
I think just living my daily life in Beibei and getting to know the street vendors and building relationships with them and people I have met was truly amazing. In the 3 months I was in Beibei, I was able to meet so many great people, I became a "regular" to some of the street vendors or some of the restaurants we would go to and they were always happy to see us and greet us.
Why did you choose the program in which you participated?
I wanted to study abroad because I wanted to be able to go out of my comfort zone, be on my own, and immerse myself in a different culture. I chose China because I already was taking Chinese courses and I am half Chinese. So I thought it would be a great way to learn more Chinese and it also helped my Chinese minor. I also chose China because it was completely opposite of what America was like and I wanted to experience something completely different.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
I think that no matter where you go, study abroad is honestly the best time of your life. It was an amazing and eye opening experience. Do not go into study abroad with a plan. Be spontaneous because you never know if you will be able to experience it ever or again. I think you learn a lot about yourself and experience a lot of growth in the process. And lastly, you will have memories that you will truly cherish for the rest of your life. If I could go back, I would do it in a heartbeat.
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
The trip was definitely an eye opening experience. It made me think of how blessed I am to be living in America and that I should really appreciate it. It makes you realize how different the other side of the world is. Also, by being immersed in the culture, it allows me to think differently. The thought process of the Chinese is so different from the way an American would think and cultures and customs are so different. It allows you to think about how others interpret things and why they behave and act the way they do.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
Things may not always go as planned, but all you can do is go with the flow, embrace the culture, and explore. Do not go in with high expectations or expect you are going to feel one way about something. You never know until you just go out there and try it.