A friend indeed

In 2015, my journey as an international student began at Beijing Language and Culture University.

Luckily enough, I met a friend who helped me on my journey with the Chinese language and culture outside the education system. She took me to different restaurants, and I was able to taste famous Chinese delicacies such as Peking duck, kung pao chicken and baozi.

What surprised me is that she always knew the historical background behind almost all the dishes we ate. She narrated different stories about China and took me to famous places such as the Summer Palace and the Beihai Park.

Chinese youths today are more open and ambitious.

The Chinese society has entered a relatively stable period. China's welfare system, too, has developed. Young people can find a job, and don't have to worry about food and clothing.

China as a nation is developing very fast. And young people are immensely optimistic about their future as individuals.