Milica, one of our cultural exchange participants, writes to us from Shangcheng, Hangzhou, where her journey through language, culture, and adventure has only just begun. Here’s what she shared about her experience so far:
The program is wonderfully structured—with Chinese language classes four times a week, two hours each session—making it ideal for beginners who are just stepping into the world of this beautifully complex language (or only know how to say “Nihao”).
The host family I’m staying with has been incredibly kind. They do their best to make me feel at home, and I always have freshly prepared Chinese meals available. If something doesn’t suit my taste, there’s always a European dish or a good cup of coffee waiting—something that means a lot to me.
As for Hangzhou—this city is absolutely breathtaking. Its natural beauty, peaceful lakes, and wide green parks make it the perfect place to explore and relax. It offers the perfect mix of modern urban living and traditional Chinese culture, which makes it such a unique and enriching place to stay. I have to give special credit to the locals—they’ve been so warm and welcoming. People often stop me in the street to talk or take photos, which adds an extra bit of charm to my time here.
Milica shared more about how she’s been spending her days and what’s made the biggest impression:
I try to explore as much of Hangzhou and the surrounding areas as I can. I quickly got the hang of the city’s transport system—even traveling between cities—so now it feels like the sky’s the limit. I’ve even visited places that my host family hasn’t had the chance to see yet! From ancient temples and traditional streets to nighttime performances and adventure parks—I’ve done it all, and I’ve only been here for three weeks.
What surprises me the most is how confident I’ve become. I honestly never thought I’d go on solo outings, especially considering the language barrier, complex transport, and general fear of the unknown. But in my very first week, I was already exploring major cultural landmarks on my own. These experiences have made me more independent and left me with unforgettable memories.
What I’ve enjoyed the most is how I get to spend my free time. It might sound obvious, but it’s true. I love planning little day trips, but I love the actual adventures even more. It fills me with joy to leave the house early in the morning and not return until late in the evening—after a full day of discovering new places and hidden corners of the city. That feeling of freedom and exploration makes me genuinely happy.
About working with the program team, Milica says:
I’ve had a fantastic experience with the Center for Affirmation and Development. I heard about the program from a colleague who had already taken part in “Discover China” and spoke very highly of it. The concept is brilliant, and the organization has been solid from day one.
A special shoutout goes to Jelena, who’s been there for me whenever I had questions or concerns. Her support and dedication really helped make this experience smoother, more enjoyable, and stress-free.
And to those thinking of applying, Milica offers this advice:
First, I want to say that this program isn’t for everyone. Being alone in a completely unfamiliar environment isn’t easy—it can be a real challenge. But the rewards are incredible. This program gave me the opportunity to spend three months in China, explore even just a piece of this fascinating country, learn the language, and immerse myself in a brand-new culture.
I truly believe that all the benefits far outweigh any fears or hesitations. If you’re up for a challenge and open to new experiences, this is the kind of opportunity you don’t want to miss.
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