Exploring the Environment of China 2011

Looking Different a World Away – Xi'an

by Alicia Danner

I am a senior Biology student who plans on studying animal science once I graduate in May 2012. I enjoy learning about the field of science, especially biological sciences as a whole. I understand that science makes life attainable and comprehendible. In order to understand scientific ideas experiments must be done. In order to understand the world around you, you have to experience it. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience Chinese culture and science in China.

Prior to traveling to China I travelled to Europe and found many similarities to the United States. Upon arriving in China I knew that China was nothing like I've experienced before. It was truly a world away. I've never seen a place so busy or met people so friendly.

Xi'an was nothing like the Beijing or Shanghai. As Professor Ed Schroth would say "Now we are in China". Being one of the few African American undergraduate students in the Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Science I know what it's like to not look like anyone else in room. The residents of Xi'an not only noticed that I looked different than the other students, they embraced it. I was taken off guard the first few times they asked to take pictures of me or my braided hair but as the trip went on, it was a welcome change. Looking different in the United States may cause a stare or two but that is all. In Xi'an looking different was not a bad thing it was something to be proud of.

The reaction of the Chinese people we met throughout China was always a positive one. It was a promising sign that the most positive reaction came from the children we met. They were very excited to meet the Americans and take pictures of me and the other students. The children are indeed the future and it is says a lot on the concept of diversity. The children we met in Xi'an were more than accepting of diversity.

Botanical garden in Xi'an with tour guide

I enjoyed my trip to the city Xi'an and the people we met and their open friendliness made the difference in the trip. I learned from the residents that it is okay to not look like everyone else and not to hesitate to take an opportunity that is in front of you because of the fear of not fitting in. In a country of 1.6 billion people that look nothing like me I felt at peace.

Night train to Xi'an