In China we saw an an incredible amount of sites and partook in many “China bucket list” experiences. By virtue of having only a little more than a week two of the largest cities in the world (also conveniently located in one of the most historically and socially rich nations in the world), our time was jam-packed with the many must-see tourist attractions of China. I couldn’t have asked for anything more for my experience abroad.

However, our constrained time meant that our trip was similar to a tour and, therefore, lacked many organic, commonplace experiences. We stayed for a week. We ate at excellent restaurants. We stayed in bustling areas of town. We didn’t go to the grocery store. We didn’t commute to work. We didn’t visit any friend’s home. While I believe that I know and understand China much better, I don’t exactly know how the citizens of Shanghai and Beijing actually live. As a result, I’d like to learn more about the many aspects of everyday life in China. I’d like to learn about how the experiences of different socioeconomic groups vary or correlate.

If I get the opportunity to return to China, I hope that I have time to learn about these aspects of Chinese life. One vital tool to do this would be competence with Mandarin. Knowing the language was obviously invaluable for those in our group who spoke Mandarin prior. I’d love to follow up and learn to speak the language so that, when I return, I can actually interact with natives.

Life in Houston would be much easier with a transportation system that of Shanghai. I also loved even-numbered prices that made paying in cash easy. But, while I felt comfortable (especially in Shanghai) and hope to spend more time in China, I was still glad to be home. I was ready for a non-family style meal and for more non-smoking environments. The creature comforts of a life that I am used to are certainly what I missed most. Additionally, as previously indicated, I’ve come to appreciate simply being able to communicate–to ask people, “What’s with the fireworks?” or “why is there a long line?” Finally, what I’ve come to appreciate greatly is (relatively) clean air. When I clearly see the skyline of Houston all the way from Rice, I sigh with relief. Clean air is magical.

I can’t wait to return to China. I hope I can live and work there, at least for a short time; there is much to be learned and much to experience still.