It has been two years now since I’ve lived here in China. To say the least, life here has been interesting for me so far. China is extremely far from my home which is in the Caribbean. People ask me all the time why did you move to China. I’m not clear on that answer myself because I have many reasons. The food, the culture, the sights, or maybe simply the adventure I knew it could provide me. The simplest answer would be the challenge I knew it could present to me. Since, I’ve moved here, life is never boring. I was nervous at first, when I walked into the classroom to teach my students. I was scared that I wouldn’t do well, scared that they wouldn’t like me. Now that seems silly, but they were my honest feelings. Moving here presented me with the opportunity to live outside of my comfort zone. When we are growing up we tend to do things that are always on the safe side or that we deem safe. I came here not knowing the language, knowing that I was a woman and a black woman sometimes made me feel uneasy. Yes, I sometimes have a lot of people mostly the older generation approach me when I’m outside maybe simply to stare at me or touch my skin. To me that was a little nerve racking but it was understandable. Most people who live in this country have never seen a person of my skin tone in real life before or maybe never. Sometimes the kids on the street yell and point and say (外国人wài guó rén ), but for me I just use the opportunity to practice my Chinese. I believe that children are great teachers, and let me tell you they are definitely not shy to correct you when you are wrong. I have met some amazing people since I’ve moved here. For me, learning about Chinese culture has shown me that even though, I moved half way around the world from my home, some things will always be the same. Listening to my friends here talk about their family and the different things that they do with them, or maybe complain about them makes me think about my family and how similar they are with their values. My students here have been a great addition to my experience here. My job and superiors are also great. I love the fact that they make themselves available to help us with whatever problems we may have. The Food here is exquisite, everyday I’m able to try new amazing dishes. I am able to travel around and witness the history that occurred generations ago. The culture here is steeped in a very strong traditional mentality which is amazing to see when you go to the various cities to view the different architectural designs and visit the temples. I have found a family here that has adopted me into their home, and who takes care of me and treat me to homemade meals which is a real treasure for someone living so far away from their loved ones. China, has really opened its arms and welcomed me and for that I have to say Thank you. Yes, I have experienced negative experiences but the positive ones out way any negative ones I have experienced. I have witnessed how kind, generous, helpful, caring and inclusive Chinese people are and am throughly enjoying my life here very much.

Keanna Hector，美国国籍，Springfield College硕士研究生。重庆师范大学涉外商贸学院外国语学院专职教师。