Study Abroad Student Reflects on Old & New Shanghai

I’ve always planned on studying abroad someday and chose China because the Chinese culture has always fascinated me. Studying abroad in Shanghai will give me the opportunity to immerse in the Chinese culture as well as learn the language. As an international business major, it also is important for me to be knowledgeable about the global economy.

And as China is becoming an influential player in the global economy, studying in China is definitely advantageous.

One of the things I love most about China is the combination of the new mixed in with the old. It’s this constant juxtaposition that draws me in. I will see traditional Chinese architectural styles and in the surrounding areas are high rise apartments, modern skyscrapers, and clogged streets. I find myself constantly drawn into China’s past.

While on a river cruise on the Qin Huai River in Nanjing, the gentle swaying of the boat and the traditional architectural style of the buildings on both sides of the river made it seem as though I’ve stepped through time. The only sound I heard was the water gently lapping at the boat and, for a moment, I forgot that I was in a bustling city. Then a car horn sounded off in the distance and I was thrown back into the present with the vibration of the boat motor beneath my feet and the city lights surrounding me.

China is rich in history and whether it is the architecture or a simple boat ride, this country's history is well preserved and I look forward to exploring more of China and learning about its rich history and culture.

Mai Neng Yang is currently studying abroad in Shanghai through our Global Partner, Shanghai Normal University.