My Journey Through China: Volunteering, Adventure, and Memories

In August 2024, I had the chance to travel to China, a place I had always wanted to visit, but never truly imagined I’d get to explore so thoroughly at the age of 22. Thanks to Gotoco, a volunteering company that connects top university graduates with meaningful experiences, I joined 40 other passionate volunteers to make a difference at Zeng Guofan School, a private boarding school in Loudi.

Little did I know, this experience would inspire me in so many ways and solidify my global vision for The Shan Academy.

Zeng Guofan School: A Classroom of Resilience and Dedication

My amazing class at Zeng Guofan School

Zeng Guofan School, named after the revered military leader Zeng Guofan, was where my journey truly began. The school and its students taught me invaluable lessons about the power of education, perseverance, and resilience. My students' drive to learn and their unwavering respect for education blew me away. They were so dedicated, constantly pushing themselves to improve, and their passion for learning inspired me every single day. It was a reminder of how transformative education can be, not only for academic success but for shaping character and resilience.

Exploring China's Rich Tapestry

After my time volunteering, I embarked on a whirlwind tour of some of China’s most stunning regions, each offering a new and unique experience.

Beijing

The historical sights of Beijing

Visiting Beijing was like stepping into a history book. The iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square left me in awe - as did the delicious famous Beijing Peking Duck I tried!

I even got to check off a huge bucket list item: climbing the Great Wall of China. I never thought I'd be able to see such an incredible landmark at the age of 22 and it was a stunning memory I won't forget.

Shanghai

The hustle and bustle of Shanghai

From the modern skyline with its towering skyscrapers to the peaceful and picturesque Yu Gardens, I found Shanghai to be the perfect blend of the old and the new.

I loved visiting the Jade Temple, where the calm atmosphere offered a sharp contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. Shanghai’s pork buns (xiao long bao) were incredible!

Yangshuo

The peaceful nature in Yangshuo

Surrounded by mountains, nature and water, Yangshuo was the most peaceful part of my trip. I went hiking and kayaking, while also learning to cook traditional Chinese dishes.

The simplicity and the locals' slower pace of life there were refreshing. The authenticity of Chinese culture in this region really stood out to me.

Zhangjiajie

A stunning adventure in Zhangjiajie

Finally, I ventured to Zhangjiajie, home of the breathtaking Avatar Mountains. Hiking through this area was one of the most incredible experiences of my life.

The natural rock formations were unlike anything I’d ever seen before. Zip-lining off the Grand Canyon and walking across the world’s tallest and longest glass bridge was both thrilling and surreal.

And, of course, there were the monkeys who were unexpected company for us on our hikes!

A Journey of a Lifetime

My adventure in China was nothing short of amazing. From the determination and resilience of my students to the stunning landscapes of China, every moment was filled with awe and inspiration. It opened my eyes to new cultures, ways of thinking, and opportunities for growth, while also reminding me of the importance of sharing and learning from others.

The dedication and tireless work ethic I witnessed in my students helped me better understand the values that drive them and expanded my vision for The Shan Academy. It reinforced the importance of resilience, hard work, and a growth mindset—principles we embrace at The Shan Academy to inspire and support our own students