The Best Decision I’ve Ever Made! – Cultural Exchange in China

Filip, a participant in the “Discover China” cultural exchange program, writes to us from Chengdu, the heart of Sichuan province. Here’s what he shared about his unforgettable journey:

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when someone says “China”? Let me tell you what runs through my head when I hear that word now…

I’ve been in China for over three months. And when I say already, I mean it—time has flown by in this now not-so-foreign land. Before arriving, you don’t really know what to expect. There’s that distorted image shaped by rumors, prejudice, fear of the unfamiliar, and well-meaning concerns from loved ones. Let me tell you—throw all of that out the window.

From a broader perspective, yes, China is the fastest-growing economy in the world. They’re tackling global projects at lightning speed. It’s the most populous country, making its market unlike any other. They’re graduating more students than any other nation, and their tech is evolving at a mind-blowing pace. But beyond the headlines, what you’ll find is a unique personal experience that can ignite the curiosity and spark the spirit of any true adventurer.

The language, which at first sounded like something from another planet, has now become music to my ears. The faces that once seemed so similar now carry their own colors and expressions. Daily routines that felt like riddles now make perfect sense and even challenge me to rethink the way I’ve lived my life so far.

Thousands of years of tradition and culture are embedded in every aspect of life—holidays, gestures, body language, family dynamics, respect for elders, values, and a whole new worldview. And sure, I still struggle to remember the names of people I just met—but hey, at least I’ve mastered chopsticks!

One of the biggest reasons I joined this program is that I want to continue my studies in China. And now, I can proudly say that applying for this exchange has been one of the best decisions of my life.

I live with a Chinese host family in Chengdu—the spicy food capital and panda paradise! This is the third-largest city in China, and it definitely lives up to its size in terms of culture, history, and modern life. My host family welcomed me like one of their own, and we’ve already done some traveling together.

So far, I’ve visited:

Xi’an, home of the legendary Terracotta Warriors

Hainan, a literal tropical paradise

Yunnan, known as “The City of Rainbows” because of its ethnic diversity and dazzling skies

This program has given me a first-hand look at what life in China really feels like. And since I plan to build a future here, it’s erased every doubt I had and only deepened my fascination with this incredible culture.

To all you bold adventurers out there—I recommend this from the heart. Good luck!