By Alex Tani

Alex Tani (the first one from the left) and his friends. (COURTESY PHOTO)

In the summer of 2019, I went to China for the first time to attend a summer school program in Beijing. The city's mix of ancient traditions and modern life amazed me. The program covered Chinese culture, history and language, and I loved exploring places like the Forbidden City and Wangfujing markets.

After the program ended, I decided to pursue a master's degree in international politics at a university in London, to help me better understand the history of China. Learning about this country from a classroom filled with great academics was beneficial, but I was more eager to return to China. In my opinion, if you want to study and understand a country, nothing can compare to having real experience living there.

Unfortunately, the pandemic delayed my arrival in China. However, I was determined to make the most of my time waiting to return. I spent my days studying Chinese, reading books about Chinese history and even starting looking for apartments to live in Beijing.

In 2023, I was lucky to win a scholarship to attend another master's program in Beijing. This current course has given me the time needed to explore more hidden spots in the city, finding peaceful parks and calm places amid the urban chaos.

Living in the city full-time wasn't always easy. I had to get used to the fast pace, understand social norms, and pick up the language. But Beijing welcomed me, and I found both challenges and rewards in my daily life.

Now, my master's program at Peking University focused on both economics and international relations, helping me further understand China's role in the world. The diverse group of students in my classes made every discussion interesting. Beyond the classrooms, exploring Beijing became a big part of my education.

Food was a major part of my experience too. From street food to fancy restaurants, I loved trying new dishes. Sharing meals with classmates and locals became a way to connect across cultures.

Sometimes, I felt a bit homesick for my hometown and missed the familiar things. But new friendships and exciting discoveries in China quickly replaced those feelings.

Besides my studies, I got involved in community projects, trying to connect international students with the local community. These experiences, whether in class or working on community initiatives, helped me form connections that went beyond cultural differences.

Looking back, my time in China has been a mix of unique experiences. What started as a curiosity in 2019 has turned into a deep connection, making China feel like a second home. The city's energy, the friendliness of its people, and the endless possibilities for exploration have made this part of my life an unforgettable adventure.

Alex Tani is a postgraduate student from UK at Peking University.

In the summer of 2019, I went to China for the first time to attend a summer school program in Beijing. The city's mix of ancient traditions and modern life amazed me. The program covered Chinese culture, history and language, and I loved exploring places like the Forbidden City and Wangfujing markets.

After the program ended, I decided to pursue a master's degree in international politics at a university in London, to help me better understand the history of China. Learning about this country from a classroom filled with great academics was beneficial, but I was more eager to return to China. In my opinion, if you want to study and understand a country, nothing can compare to having real experience living there.

Unfortunately, the pandemic delayed my arrival in China. However, I was determined to make the most of my time waiting to return. I spent my days studying Chinese, reading books about Chinese history and even starting looking for apartments to live in Beijing.

In 2023, I was lucky to win a scholarship to attend another master's program in Beijing. This current course has given me the time needed to explore more hidden spots in the city, finding peaceful parks and calm places amid the urban chaos.

Living in the city full-time wasn't always easy. I had to get used to the fast pace, understand social norms, and pick up the language. But Beijing welcomed me, and I found both challenges and rewards in my daily life.

Now, my master's program at Peking University focused on both economics and international relations, helping me further understand China's role in the world. The diverse group of students in my classes made every discussion interesting. Beyond the classrooms, exploring Beijing became a big part of my education.

Food was a major part of my experience too. From street food to fancy restaurants, I loved trying new dishes. Sharing meals with classmates and locals became a way to connect across cultures.

Sometimes, I felt a bit homesick for my hometown and missed the familiar things. But new friendships and exciting discoveries in China quickly replaced those feelings.

Besides my studies, I got involved in community projects, trying to connect international students with the local community. These experiences, whether in class or working on community initiatives, helped me form connections that went beyond cultural differences.

Looking back, my time in China has been a mix of unique experiences. What started as a curiosity in 2019 has turned into a deep connection, making China feel like a second home. The city's energy, the friendliness of its people, and the endless possibilities for exploration have made this part of my life an unforgettable adventure.

Alex Tani is a postgraduate student from UK at Peking University.