The day I received the news of my acceptance to UWC Changshu China, my heart filled with excitement and anticipation for the start of my new journey. In preparation, I dedicated myself to learning the Chinese language and immersing myself in researching all aspects of the country. I discovered that dumplings held a special significance in Chinese culture, believed to bring luck and prosperity to those who partake in them. This knowledge further fueled my enthusiasm.

Upon arriving on campus, I was immediately struck by the incredible diversity of fellow students from all corners of the globe. The sheer variety of cultures represented was awe-inspiring, leaving me unsure of where to begin my exploration.

It wasn't until I had the opportunity to stay with a host family in Shenzhen, China, that I truly felt the essence of the country. Initially, I was apprehensive about navigating the cultural differences we would encounter. However, as soon as I arrived in my host family's city, all my concerns melted away, and I immediately felt a sense of belonging.

To make the experience even more enjoyable, I had the company of my close friend, Abdoul Nasser Ali Djibo,  who is from Niger and also a student at UWC Changshu China. Together, we embarked on a thrilling adventure, fully immersing ourselves in all that China had to offer - from its breathtaking beaches and picturesque hills to its delectable cuisine (noodles quickly became a personal favorite) and the captivating language.

Our connection with the host family grew strong, and we constantly updated each other on our experiences. One moment that deeply touched both of us was on Christmas Day when they presented us with a gift, treating us as their own children. In that instant, we felt an overwhelming sense of belonging, as if we had been transported back to our own homes. The warm and welcoming nature of the Chinese people left an indelible mark on us, and we are grateful for the unforgettable Christmas holiday we shared with our host family.

Lastly, but certainly not least, we miss their kids, Nuna, Rachel, and Hanson. In just two weeks, we shared experiences that felt like a year's worth of moments. It reminded us that what truly matters is not the amount of time spent, but the quality of the moments shared.

I want to express my deepest gratitude for the wonderful experience I had with my host family in Hangzhou. From the moment I arrived, they welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like a part of the family. Their warmth, kindness, and generosity, along with their smiles, laughter, and a genuine sense of hospitality, touched my heart.

Living with them was like sharing our cultures with each other. They were really curious about my country and how the lifestyle there is. I felt at home during the dinner time when they used to play Nepali songs for me and were keen to know more about me.

Living with them allowed me to immerse myself in the authentic Chinese culture and I can't thank them enough for the effort they made to make me feel comfortable and include me as their fourth child. Moreover, their willingness to showcase the breathtaking beauty of Hangzhou and its surroundings was an incredible gift.

From exploring the West Lake, feeding the squirrels and birds, to going through different parks, every outing was a testament to my pride and love for Hangzhou. Cooking my traditional food there and receiving their praise, making cake for the New Year, and dancing to the Christmas songs with all the family members. Playing with the brothers and sister was really fun. I felt the luckiest to have them as my host family.

In the New Year, they cheered me and told me how the New Year was celebrated and they welcomed me as their family member. I got to meet all the big family members and eating duck's tongue and duck blood soup was a really new and fun experience.

I really want to thank our school for hosting this program and I was able to find the best family ever. Now I proudly can say that I have two families, one in Nepal and another in Hangzhou. I already started to miss them.

During my 14-day stay with a Chinese host family in Changshu, China, I was embraced with an overwhelming sense of love and care. What struck me the most was witnessing the deep respect that Chinese people have for one another, which was evident in every interaction I had with my host family.

From the moment they learned about my arrival, my host family went above and beyond to make me feel welcomed and valued. I was touched by their genuine interest in my background and culture. They took the time to research my home country, Pakistan, and engaged in heartfelt conversations about its traditions and customs. This demonstrated their openness and willingness to embrace diversity, leaving a lasting impression on me.

While staying with my host family, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the Chinese language. They patiently taught me new words and phrases every day, encouraging me to practice and expand my vocabulary. It was a joy to learn the intricacies of their language and witness their enthusiasm as I made progress.

Beyond the confines of the host family's home, I had the pleasure of meeting their relatives, who welcomed me with open arms. The love and respect I experienced extended beyond the immediate family circle. It was heartwarming to witness the strong bonds and enduring family values that are deeply ingrained in Chinese culture.

During our leisure time, we often gathered to watch movies and series together. This not only provided entertainment but also became a platform for cultural exchange. Through these shared experiences, I gained a deeper understanding of Chinese society and values, while also sharing aspects of my own culture.

One of the highlights of my culinary journey was the opportunity to savor a wide variety of authentic Chinese dishes prepared by my host family. Each meal was a delightful exploration of flavors, aromas, and unique cooking techniques. From fragrant stir-fries to delicate dumplings, my taste buds were treated to a delightful feast of traditional Chinese cuisine.

My host family taught me how to make dumplings, a cherished dish in Chinese culture. I learned the art of shaping and filling the dumplings, and we enjoyed the process of making them together. It was a beautiful way to connect with their traditions and create lasting memories.

In conclusion, my 14-day journey with a Chinese host family in Changshu was a transformative experience that left an indelible mark on my heart. The love, respect, and cultural exchange I encountered deepened my appreciation for the beauty of diversity. I departed with a broader perspective, enriched by the language, cuisine, traditions, and most importantly, the genuine connections formed during my time with this remarkable family.