From the Classroom to the Streets of Shanghai, My China Experience November 14, 2025
By Okiki F (Political Science and Government, Cornell University) - abroad from 02/12/2025 to 05/31/2025 with
CET Shanghai
Most definitely! No classroom experience could compare to the way studying abroad broadened my perspective on global citizenship and enriched my understanding of cross-cultural learning. I discovered the extent of my love for connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds, whether through teaching, everyday interactions, or forming friendships with local roommates. Moreover, my internship experience taught me that education, empathy, and international connections can transform communities—insights that directly influence my aspiration to become an international human rights attorney. It made clear the type of work I want to pursue and the kind of person I aspire to be. It wasn’t only that the experience taught me about another culture; it also helped me grasp my position in a global community.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
All of the classes I took were great! I had 3 electives (all in English) plus 1 Chinese language class. They were on Shanghai history, Chinese food, and an internship seminar since I participated in the internship component of the program. Each class had a very manageable workload, and I didn't feel as though I was stretching myself thin because of any one class. Chinese is what I would say took of up more of my time, however, even from that I learned so much! |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The on-site administration, especially the internship manager, were exceptional! I felt so supported, I could always have my questions answered and even when I had time-sensitive situation wherein items from the US were stuck in customs and I had to pick them up, the CET admin helped me every step of the way. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Really nice housing! We lived in the international students dorm with local roommates, and there was an aiyi that cleaned our room whenever requested. The Aiyi and Shifu downstairs were so personable and caring :) |
| * Food: |
The food, as one would imagine, was incredible. There were so many options both on and off campus and I never felt limited to one thing. For my friends that were vegetarian, I would say it may have been a bit challenging at first, but they too were able to find cuisine that fit them. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I felt very integrated and immersed in the local culture. Participating in different activities and campus events, traveling around the city, and just having conversations, I truly felt like I was able to connect with the people I met every day. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
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| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
Yes, definitely. This program provided me with exactly what I hoped for and beyond—academically, personally, and professionally. Through my teaching internship, it provided a perfect blend of language study, cultural immersion, and practical experience. Without any hesitation, I would choose this program again. |
Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
Overall, I found it very easy to manage costs. Of course, there are times when you're traveling or when you've just arrived that you find yourself splurging, however, I find that with time you find your footing and can pace yourself accordingly. |
| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | 35-40 |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Create a daily/weekly spending schedule! If you're traveling, try to go in groups to split the costs and save on tickets/food, etc. Wherever you go, ask for student discounts, you never know who could be offering them! |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
I definitely felt encouraged to use the language, not only in the classroom but with my friends, roommates, and in the local community. It felt a bit nerve-wracking at first, but eventually it felt very natural (it was also a bit of a necessity haha) |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Intermediate |
| How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? | Intermediate |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | Intermediate Chinese |
| How many hours per day did you use the language? | |
| Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? | Make conversation with the locals! You'll be surprised at how much you know and how much you will learn when you're outside the classroom, away from the highly-structured environment and simply chatting with someone at park or restaurant. Even if you're unsure or not completely confident in your ability, the locals are very nice and always willing to accommodate. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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| About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? |
A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | I wish I knew how important it is to fully embrace each and every moment abroad. Time can go by so quickly, however, living in the moment truly allows you to appreciate the memories and relationships you make. |
Reasons For Studying Abroad
| To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you. |
The Academic or LinguistYou went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you! |
