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.
Tsinghua Graduation 2
We have no idea who this lady was. Guess she just wanted a picture with foreigners, which happens a lot more than you'd think
Tsinghua Graduation 1
It's been a wild 2 years, but I have finally finished my Master's of Chinese Politics and Foreign Policy at Tsinghua University. I'm so thankful for the support of all my friends and family over these past 2 years. I've met so many interesting people, had the opportunity to travel all around the world, and today, am proud to call myself a Tsinghua alumni. It's a bittersweet moment as the life of a student comes to an end and now must face the challenges that await me in the 'real' world. Thank you again to all my teachers, classmates, friends, roommates, and family for making this experience one that I will remember for the rest of my life. Here's to you, class of 2017.
After the rain
Not my photos, but Tsinghua was super pretty after the rain yesterday evening
Tsinghua University
I'm currently studying my Masters of Chinese Politics and Foreign Policy at Tsinghua University, located in Northwest Beijing. The campus is huge, known as China's MIT, and has an interesting mix of architecture. Above is a campus map and thankfully, also has a high rank of employability. I'm sure it's only because Xi, a Tsinghua grad, is currently the president of China. Regardless, Tsinghua stacks up well with other universities here in China as well as on an international level. I'm proud to have been accepted to this school and although the next 2 years will be challenging, I'm excited for what the future holds.
Peking University Campus in Beijing, China
Tried to go to Summer Palace today and quickly realized that sightseeing during a Chinese holiday is a horrible idea (we get a week holiday for Chinese National Day). Thousands of Chinese tourist lined the streets and bike lanes were blocked with transport busses. So I noped right out of there and checked out Peking University campus, often referred to as Tsinghua’s rival. I’ve come to realize that trying to get a clear shot of anything in China is going to have random Chinese people in it. One of the many unwritten laws of living in Beijing.
