After returning to the US after spending two months in Shanghai, a lot of what I’ve been doing is just resting! I just had a busy two months, so I’ve spent time at my family’s house in Oregon dealing with post-trip fatigue. Coming back to the US was, truthfully, sad. Life in China was incredibly convenient: walkable cities, great public transportation, many things to do, and affordable activities and meals. Because my family kind of lives in the middle of nowhere, I haven’t had the chance to do anything since returning and look forward to coming back to campus, where I’ll have class and work to keep me busy. Tips I’d give for people coming back are allowing themselves time to rest, if they know they’re the type of people who need it. Everyone is different when it comes to traveling, so the best advice I can give is just listen to yourself!
I think returning to the US was more difficult than arriving in China because I was coming off the high of an amazing experience and city. No offense to Oregon, but it just doesn’t compare, and I was sad to leave. Although arriving in China was stressful, I was excited and full of adrenaline, ready to experience new things!
During my time abroad, I moved out of my comfort zone by taking a solo trip to Beijing for a weekend. The experience was stressful for many reasons, but also rewarding for many others. I had to make all reservations myself, and although this wouldn’t normally stress me, there was a part of my mind that placed doubt in whether or not they would work once I got on site. Luckily, I had no issues with anything! Taking this trip towards the end of my internship meant I had been in China for over a month at this point, which meant I understood public transport and trains well enough to take a trip myself. Before this, I don’t think I had ever taken a solo trip in the US, much less in a foreign country. It was a great experience; I had no issues throughout my entire weekend, and I would encourage anyone abroad to try the same!
Emma Weast, Diverse Ducks Ambassador
GlobalWorks Internship in Shanghai
