This study abroad in China has been a truly unforgettable experience. It has been fun and very educational. I learned about many things including engineering products, business practices, and Chinese culture. I would have never been able to experience a trip like this alone. With everyone`s help and cooperation, we were able to have a wonderful experience filled with lots of laughter.

Before this trip, I never imagined myself going to China. China rightly seemed like such a distant and faraway place. It also seemed impossible to visit due to my chronic pain in my hips. Despite that, this trip has showed me that stepping out of my comfort zone to try new experiences pays off in the end. I also truly valued the Chinese friends that I have made throughout this trip, and I will never forget the help and care that they have provided me. I`m extremely grateful for them and everyone who put together this amazing adventure.

Not only have I learned more, but now I am more interested and motivated in learning more about business, learning more about new countries, and working as an engineer in the field. I hope to work abroad in the future, whether that be in China, Japan or another country. This trip also showed me the strength someone has through learning a new language. Diverse companies with people from different countries will have diverse ideas and strength around the globe. I hope to also work with a very diverse company that I can continue to learn from.

Although I had difficulty following along with business conversations, I started to learn a little more from this trip. I also plan to continue to learn even more after this trip on my own.

The biggest ideas that I have taken away is the value of language, connections, and the ability to do something new. Language is very important and now I feel as though everyone should try to learn at least a few phrases from a different language. By doing this, it connects people around the world. Even if a person is unable to speak a language, the willingness to communicate though body language or images is also very important. If you never try, you will never be able to understand another person and create that strong relationship. Previously, I also though that it was nearly impossible for me to work in another country. Now, I realize that it is possible through education in language and being involved with that country. I am more than happy to tackle any obstacles I may face through my future journeys in different countries and working in new environments.

I will always remember the life lessons I learned from this experience. It has truly change how I view relationships around the world. I am also happy that I pushed myself to visit China despite my disability. I am extremely grateful that I went on this trip, and I plan to use the knowledge that I have learned forever in my future work. Thank you China!