The First Year of Studying Abroad in China: My Adaptation Journey

It’s hard to believe that a year has passed since I first arrived in China to study. Looking back, I still remember stepping off the plane, feeling both excited and overwhelmed. From experiencing culture shock to gradually adapting, this journey has been filled with challenges—but also invaluable growth.

When I first arrived, everything felt so new—the towering skyscrapers, the efficient subway system, and the bustling streets. What impressed me most was China’s cashless society. Back in Malaysia, I relied on cash or cards, but here, everyone pays with their phones. I still remember struggling to set up Alipay and only managing to do so with the help of a senior.

Since I’ve learned Chinese from a young age, language wasn’t a major barrier. However, professional courses were still challenging due to the fast-paced lectures and complex terminology. I struggled in my first macroeconomics class, often rewatching recordings and looking up unfamiliar concepts. Fortunately, my classmates were friendly and helped me adjust to the learning pace.

University life isn’t just about classes and exams—club activities play a crucial role as well. I joined the Cantonese Club and the International Students Art Group, where I met friends from diverse backgrounds. We planned events, performed together, and bonded through cultural exchanges. I also enjoyed studying in library discussion rooms with friends, which kept me motivated and boosted my efficiency.

Food in China has been an adventure—xiaolongbao, hotpot, and so much more. At first, I wasn’t used to spicy food, and some dish names confused me—like Lion’s Head, which turned out to be a meatball! Over time, I built my own “food map” and learned to navigate restaurant menus with confidence.

Living alone in a foreign country, it’s natural to feel homesick at times—especially during holidays. Seeing my family back home reunited while I could only join through video calls made me feel a bit lonely. To cope with this, I started exercising regularly—playing volleyball and badminton with friends and often running on the track. This not only helped me stay healthy but also allowed me to make new friends.

I also took the opportunity to explore China, visiting Wuhan’s Yellow Crane Tower and strolling around Hangzhou’s West Lake. These trips deepened my appreciation for Chinese culture and made me feel more connected to the country.

Looking back on this year, I’ve grown so much—becoming more independent, confident, and open-minded. From experiencing culture shock to feeling truly integrated, I’ve gained not only academic knowledge but also cross-cultural communication skills and a broader worldview. If I could give one piece of advice to future international students, it would be this: Be brave, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace the experience. You’ll realize you’re stronger than you ever imagined!