Hi, my name is Austen Li, and I’m a rising 11th grader at Enloe High School in Raleigh, North Carolina. This year’s 1000 mile initiative taught me the importance of connection, allowed me to work above and beyond, and also learn and gain many new experiences.

Our introduction to the school was very warm, with students performing a wonderful music performance. I immediately felt the pressure of teaching these gifted and talented students. Although River and I were a little nervous about teaching at first, we quickly discovered how fun it was for us to teach the students at the school, as well as answer their questions about America. Many of the students were enthusiastic to learn about American slang, superstitions, and information about national parks. Question time at the end of lessons also allowed us to share personal experiences and other American habits that fascinated the students.

Adapting to life around school was interesting as we learned how the students of the school lived their lives. We saw how hard-working the students of the school were and also learned of their hardships and adversity. The activities prepared by the school were also very exciting to us. Although we weren’t able to go to Zhangjiajie because of the flood weather, we still had a lot of fun 3D printing, flying plane simulations, and doing other artistic activities. My favorites were calligraphy and paper cutting, which both allowed me to show my creativity and took a lot of concentration.

The school showed us a lot of generosity by preparing food for us even when we woke up later than the times they were open. The food was well-cooked and very yummy. River and I both had some trouble eating the local foods due to their spice level, but with the power of rice and water, we were able to enjoy lots of it. Some of my favorite foods were the Baozhi prepared in the morning, which I would eat 3-4 of every morning.

Sleeping in a room with 4 of my friends was a very interesting experience. Although at times we had our quarrels, we had a lot of fun just messing around and talking. I enjoyed talking to other Chinese students who would visit us in our dorms at night and talk to us as friends. Similarly, after River and I finished teaching, it felt very good when students would text me on WeChat telling me that we had done a good job teaching or that they had learned and remembered content from our classes. I think that this validation helped me and River build a lot of confidence and allowed us to teach better.

Overall, my time at ZhuZhou Number 2 High School was a very enjoyable experience, and I’m glad that I was able to teach the students about America, as well as learn about their lifestyles here in China. I hope to return to the program in the future, as well as visit the school again to see the friends I made.