A Truly International Experience
Having lived abroad in the past, I felt that I had been exposed to a pretty wide range of people from different countries and from different backgrounds. Then, I came to study at Jiao Tong University. I didn’t hit me right away, I guess I was still adjusting to my surroundings, but it recently dawned on me that I have never been a part of such a diverse group of people. It’s fantastic!
I went to a jazz bar named The Melting Pot last Friday to have some drinks with my classmates. We had a table reserved for ten people. I was one of the first to arrive, so I got to watch as everyone came in and took their seats. As I greeted each one, I began to kind of keep track of the home country of each person. By the end of the night I was sitting next to two Germans, an Austrian, a Frenchman, a Turkish woman, two Chinese women, and the most entertaining Japanese guy I have ever met.
I can see how some could feel lonely our out of place in this eclectic mix, but everyone was really inviting and pleasant. As I chatted with each one, our conversations covered a wide variety of topics. It was so refreshing to hear intelligent people give their own you unique perspectives on the world. I felt as though I was learning a lot. I am also having a similar experience in the classroom. I have befriended students from Brazil, France, Turkey, Pakistan, Spain, Australia, Korea, Japan, Germany, Austria, and even Tahiti. Again, it’s fantastic!
Now, having said this, I didn’t come to China just to meet other foreigners. If I wanted to do that I would just go to a city like Amsterdam. I came to China to learn about and experience the people and the culture, and I must say that I have been very pleased. Almost every Chinese person I have met has been warm and friendly, especially the younger generation. On several occasions I have struck up a conversation with a Chinese person and then ended up having lunch and working on my Chinese. I can envision myself staying friends with many of them for a long time to come.
All for now. Check in next time, and leave a comment if you like!
Adam