China

China is an exciting blend of tradition and modernity, where 5,000 years of history meet futuristic mega cities and tomorrow’s tech innovation.
The country’s rich cultural heritage extends beyond the Great Wall and the Forbidden City into every part of China and mingles with cutting edge urban design and ultramodern architecture in global hubs like Beijing and Shanghai.
From the snowy landscapes of the North to the tropical rhythms of the South, each region of China has its own unique ethnic traditions and festivals – each telling their own story.

You will most likely live in east or south China. Some exchange students live in big cities like Shanghai, Tianjin and Beijing, but most are in small cities, such as Jiangsu, Sichuan, Anhui, Heilongjiang and Guangdong.
Families in cities tend to live in apartments. Often both parents work, and it is common for grandparents to live with the family. Spending time with family is expected. Chinese people respect hierarchy and appreciate proper social relations, full of harmony and with minimal conflict.

School and studying takes centre stage in the life of Chinese teenagers. Parents are very involved in their children’s lives and education. School commitments and study take precedence over recreational activities.
You will probably attend the Senior 1 level in a high school with a special class schedule for you as an exchange student. This means that you’ll focus on learning the Chinese language, culture, history, art, and music with other AFSers in the first half of your day. The rest of your day will be dedicated to taking classes with other Chinese students. School in China runs from Monday to Friday (7.30 am to 4.30 pm), and students usually wear uniforms.

China has 55 different ethnic groups, each with its own language or dialect. Mandarin Chinese is spoken by more than 70% of people in China (and in most schools). However, you may also be placed with a family who speaks Cantonese. AFS volunteers and/or your school will provide Chinese language classes during the first three months of your stay. Some basic language knowledge before your exchange will be a great help!

Chinese cuisine is varied and delicious with a wide spectrum of textures and tastes, ranging from the fiery kick of Sichuan dishes to the delicate art of Cantonese dim sum to the world-renowned Peking Duck. Chinese family meals usually consist of vegetables, rice, noodles, and a meat dish, served with delicious teas. Have fun perfecting your chopsticks skills!

Following a vegetarian diet can be challenging, as meat is often used as a flavor enhancer, even when it is not directly in the dish.