CHINA
Country Overview:
"A land of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet rapid modernization, and delectable cuisine coexists with complex political realities."
My seven-year journey in China, from May 2013 to August 2020, was a whirlwind of experiences. I taught English, pursued my Master's in Politics & Foreign Policy at the prestigious Tsinghua University, and immersed myself in the media landscape at China Today and Xinhua News Agency. Beijing was my home base, but my travels painted a vibrant tapestry of China's diverse landscapes and cultures: the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, the historic city of Xi'an, the tropical paradise of Sanya, the unique blend of East and West in Macau and Hong Kong, and countless other destinations in between. From savoring the exquisite flavors of regional cuisines to navigating the intricacies of daily life under a distinct political system, China left an indelible mark on me.
2020 National Championship
Being a sports fan is challenging when in Beijing. Games either start super early or super late. LSU-Clemson game started at 9am and I forgot how long games were when you factor in commercials and the halftime report. On top of that, an electric bike battery exploded right outside the bar window and even when doused with a fire extinguisher, flames continued to burst forth, so the fire department was called. Eventful morning.
2020 Resolutions
Here are my resolutions, goals, objectives… whatever… for 2020:
Leave China // Life
Get a job in Europe // Life
1 picture every day // Life
Travel to 3 new countries // Life (Laos - Myanmar)
Read 20 books (15 fiction + 5 non-fiction) // Mind
Write 1 unique sentence per day // Mind
Finalize story and finish outline for new novel idea // Mind
Touch my toes sitting down // Body
Squat bodyweight 10 times // Body
Collect China Social Security // $$$
Contribute $6,000 to Roth IRA // $$$ - DONE
Tsinghua iTalk Grad Speech
Had the opportunity to speak at Tsinghua’s 2019 graduation and farewell party. Lots of interesting speeches and congrats to all the grads!
Tsinghua Grad Speech
Got asked to speak at Tsinghua’s 2019 graduation commencement on Tuesday, focusing on life in China after graduating.