Global Correspondents, Penn Global Seminars Things are looking up!... Literally

PGS: Chinese Language

It’s t-minus 24 hours until I hop on a 16-hour flight to China, and I couldn’t be more excited! I started learning Chinese as a sophomore in high school and have dreamed of traveling to China ever since, eager to use my language skills and immerse myself in Chinese culture firsthand. When I first heard about this PGS, I was in disbelief. Coming from Bentonville, Arkansas, I never imagined I would have such an opportunity, and I am immensely thankful to everyone who made this trip possible.

I've wished to go to China for so long, and now my dream is finally coming true. My bucket list is full of things I've wanted to do: visiting the Forbidden City, trying authentic food like Peking Duck and Mapo Tofu, navigating public transportation, and practicing my Chinese with locals. My main goal for this trip is to not shy away from any opportunity and converse with the locals as much as I can. I want to learn the in-and-outs of Beijing whether that be slang, popular places to visit, or best ports of transit. I want to know all that I can! Now, while I’m excited to go to China, I am NOT excited for the plane ride. Unfortunately, a teleportation device has yet to be created and I am going to have to figure out how to keep myself occupied. With that being said, I have to pack my carry-on accordingly.

First and foremost, comfort is key. A comfy soft blanket, travel pillow, and eye mask are a necessity, so I made sure to pack these items in my carry-on so I have them on hand during the flight. But, let’s be real. I am definitely not sleeping the whole flight, so I packed a book and, the best part in my opinion, some Legos! I really enjoy building Legos and brought small cherry blossom Lego pieces for the flight to build. This will keep my mind and hands at work.

I also packed some snacks – because you never know when you might get hungry! A few energy bars, some fruit snacks, and a reusable water bottle are essential for staying hydrated and energized. I researched movies that the flight offered and highlighted my favorites to watch before I board; and of course, because I can’t live without music, I brought my headphones and playlists ready for the plane.

I can’t wait to share all my experiences, from the bustling streets of Beijing to the serene landscapes of China’s countryside. Stay tuned for updates as I embark on this unforgettable journey.