Amy at the Shaolin Temple

Amy Connolly
Edward R. Murrow High School
Brooklyn, NY

While in China, I found the most meaningful part of my trip was interacting with the people and the most memorable was visiting the Shaolin Temple.

Prior to my trip, I considered the Chinese culture and political process to be the exact opposite to what I have experienced living in the United States. The development of the individual is paramount in America, and I had believed China emphasized the importance of the group. However, my ideas changed once I was in China. Surprisingly, I didn't find China to be very communist at all. In fact, it was quite similar to the United States [in many ways]: their capitalist market economy, and ambitious students from high schools and universities.
With all the constructions I observed in China I realized China is desperately trying to compete in the market economy in the world and is eager to advance and prosper. I think that it is in the best interests of Americans to learn more about the country and it surely deserves much more attention.

Talking with the high school students in Beijing was a great opportunity for me to compare and contrast both the Chinese and American cultures.

Amy and Danny at Middle School No. 15

Students at Middle School No. 15 pay close attention in English class