In collaboration with the Guizhou Education Association for International Exchange, SPIRAL International coordinated summer trips for students and educators to Guizhou, China. Mae Rusconi, a Dartmouth College student, was one participant who benefited from this collaboration.
Mae embarked on an eight-week Service-learning journey to teach English in Guizhou. Mae had been a student of Mandarin since 9th grade and had continued that academic journey into college. SPIRAL International helped to curate an individualized experience tailored specifically to Mae’s needs as a student interested in furthering her knowledge of Chinese culture and language. Throughout her tour Mae learned about China’s education system, rural revitalization, and Chinese ethnic minorities.
Reflecting on the summer, Mae stated that “China’s rapid technological development, wild and beautiful mountains, and regional diversity amazed me. I built lifelong friendships and engaged in cultural exchange as the only foreigner and only American in most spaces. The hospitality and kindness I encountered was incredible: friends and strangers alike invited me on hikes and to meals with extended family, where we shared childhood stories, history, and traditions. I am so grateful to 李老师, Dr. Guo, and everyone who helped me coordinate this opportunity. Student and intern exchange programs like this one are crucial in improving international relations and broadening cultural understanding. I plan to return to China soon and work on US-China relations in my future career.”
Service Learning trips with SPIRAL International give students opportunities to expand their world view and that of those around them. Our trips connect individuals from around the world and strengthen cultural understanding.