Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Utilize Nanjing's efficient public bike system for convenient and affordable transportation. It's a great way to explore the city and get around quickly, especially for shorter distances. (0:05)
- Tip 2Embrace the opportunity to live in a university dorm; it's a common practice in China and provides a unique cultural immersion experience, unlike the typical independent living arrangements for American students. (0:23)
- Tip 3Be aware of mask mandates on public transportation in China, a measure implemented since the pandemic. Pack masks and familiarize yourself with local regulations. (1:14)
- Tip 4Explore the diverse culinary options available at university dining halls. While expectations might be low, you might find surprisingly delicious and affordable meals. (2:29)
- Tip 5Venture into local food streets for a truly authentic culinary adventure. These areas offer a wide variety of dishes and provide a chance to interact with locals and experience the vibrant street food culture. (7:52)
Embark on Katherine's captivating journey as she unveils a day in the life of a Masters student at Nanjing University. From navigating public bikes and the metro system to immersing herself in campus life and local culinary delights, Katherine's experiences offer a unique glimpse into studying abroad in China. Her exploration of vibrant street food, insightful lab work in environmental engineering, and serene moments amidst nature create a vivid tapestry of her daily life. Discover the charm of Nanjing through Katherine's eyes and witness the blend of academic pursuits and cultural immersion.
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This vlog offers a captivating glimpse into the daily life of Katherine, an American master's student in environmental engineering at Nanjing University, Nanjing, China. The video masterfully blends academic pursuits with cultural immersion, showcasing Katherine's unique experiences in a vibrant city.
The day begins with Katherine's commute, highlighting the convenience of Nanjing's public bike system and the ubiquitous use of QR codes for public transport. She notes the contrast between the campus's relative seclusion and her desire to be part of the wider community, a common theme throughout the video. Katherine's choice to live off-campus in a dorm, rather than the more typical American practice of living independently, is a fascinating insight into the differences in student life between the two countries.
The video then transitions to Katherine's academic life. We see her in her lab, conducting research on industrial wastewater treatment using resin beads to capture heavy metals. This offers a unique window into her specialized field and the practical application of her studies. She also attends a class on "ecological civilization," a concept unfamiliar in the US but central to Chinese environmental policy, adding another layer of cultural understanding.
Beyond academics, Katherine shares glimpses of her social life, enjoying lunch with friends at a local restaurant and savoring the unique experience of cooking crossing-the-bridge rice noodles. Her exploration of Nanjing extends beyond the university, as she takes a relaxing walk, appreciating the city's natural beauty and abundant stray cats, a testament to the city's balance between urban development and green spaces.
The video's narrative arc culminates in Katherine's evening routine, including dinner at her favorite dining hall, work on her Chinese-language thesis, and a workout at the university gym. Her choice to write her thesis in Chinese demonstrates a deep commitment to immersing herself in the local culture and academic environment. The final scenes show her returning home, reflecting on the vibrancy of city life and the unique opportunities afforded by studying abroad in China. Katherine's journey is more than just a day-in-the-life; it's a testament to the enriching experiences of international study and the beauty of embracing a new culture.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What's it like to live in a dorm as a grad student in China?
- A: It's pretty common here, unlike in the US. I like having my own space, and it's nice to get away from campus each day.
- Q: What's the public transportation like?
- A: I use public bikes and the metro a lot. You just swipe a QR code on your phone, no tickets needed. And everyone wears a mask on public transport.
- Q: What's a typical day like for you?
- A: It's a mix of classes, lab work, exploring the city, and hanging out with friends. I also try to get some exercise in.
- Q: What's the food like?
- A: The university dining halls are okay. But I really enjoy exploring the local food streets and restaurants; there are tons of options.
- Q: What's the campus like?
- A: It's pretty big, with lots of gardens and trees. It's a bit far from the city center, but it's peaceful and has lots of space to walk around.