From Chicago to Beijing…with love, of course

rachelwang — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:44:12 +0000

It has already been 4 weeks. Who would have thought it would pass so quickly? Half of our time in Beijing has flown by, and I feel like I am just beginning to truly understand the city and its culture. As an American born Chinese, I have seen the similarities and differences between the United States and China. The longer I stay, the more I appreciate both cultures. I am constantly reminded that even though I am in a different country this summer, it really is no different than home. Maybe it’s because I grew up in a home where speaking Mandarin was “the norm,” and Chinese cuisine was never odd. Maybe it’s because I have traveled to China several times before, and I do not have as great a “culture shock” experience as many others do. Who knows? It just feels right to be here.

Northwestern is located in Evanston, a suburb of the Windy City. As for Tsinghua? While it is still located in Beijing, it is nowhere near the bustling, metropolitan areas of the city. Both campuses are (for the most part) quiet and filled with students conversing with friends while heading to class. In fact, there is even a “lakefill” here! Rather than walking, approximately 90% of Tsinghua students bike to and from their destinations. One wide sidewalk along Sheridan Road would definitely not be enough room for the hundreds and hundreds of bikes I see each day. Want to go downtown to shop or have fun with friends? Take the El…or should I say Beijing Subway? The system here is quite convenient, and the trains are much cleaner and more punctual.

As for shopping, bargaining here is a must. When walking through the long corridors lined with vendors in centers like Silk Street, Ya Xiu, and Tian Yi, I am constantly astounded by just how much “stuff” there is. You want it? They really do have it! Buy more than one, and you have yourself a great deal. Sure, starting offers when they see an American jump to perhaps 10 times the amount a person should really pay. However, you know that in advance; start your offer much lower. In the end, they will succumb. I’ve seen friends bargain from 300 to just 20-30 yuan. I often feel a little guilty, because the vendors work so hard to earn such little money. That’s life, I guess. Seeing this helps me appreciate the United States, where no bargaining is involved when I want to buy clothes. The price on the tag is the price I need to pay. That’s all there is to it. No games. Of course, these bargaining areas are not the only places to purchase items. Large department stores and boutiques are available as well. When I step inside, it feels like I’m back in Chicago, shopping at Water Tower Place and down Michigan Avenue.

Sure, there are differences. It is, after all, a different country. When I step back and think about it, however, I seem to find more and more similarities every day. I think I am starting to view Beijing as my home. For the summer, at least.

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NU in China » rachelwang

From Chicago to Beijing…with love, of course