In fall 2024, a group of 10 Missouri State University students had an unforgettable Thanksgiving break.

From Nov. 22-Dec. 3, the students immersed themselves in the culture and environment of Tianjin and Beijing, China. They were part of a study abroad program led by Dr. Yating Liang, professor in the School of Hospitality and Agriculture Leadership at Missouri State.

Liang has previously led programs to Alaska, Canada, France, Italy and Spain. This was her first time leading one to China.

Program details

This experience was made possible by the partnership Missouri State’s   program has with the Tianjin Maritime College (TMC).

A grant received by TMC called the “Youth Envoy Scholarship” allowed Missouri State students to participate in the program at an affordable price. The scholarship covered the costs of lodging, transportation, tours and food while in China.

TMC oversaw the travel itinerary and consulted with Liang about the plans.

While in Beijing, students visited landmarks like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden Palace and the Great Wall of China.

Tianjin Maritime College

According to Liang, the goal of the program was not only to grow students’ appreciation for diversity and gain new experiences, but also to create a positive relationship between Missouri State and TMC.

“I want to lay the foundation for ongoing collaboration between Missouri State and TMC, fostering sustainable cultural and educational exchange programs,” she said.

While in Tianjin, students at both institutions got to interact with each other.

Liang’s students were able to participate in a host of activities, such as Mandarin lessons, Chinese paper cutting, traditional tea ceremonies and cooking classes to make Chinese pastries.

Valuable life lessons

Wyatt Blisard, an undecided major and a trip participant, said the biggest lesson he learned was the importance of connecting with his travel companions to enhance the study abroad experience.

“Growing a bond with the other students really improves how you perceive every experience during the trip. It’s more reassuring to share travel abroad experience with other people in the same boat as you and it also encourages you to step out of your comfort zone,” Blisard added.

For another student, Sunny Slater, who is double majoring in international business and biomedical sciences, she learned the importance of letting go of expectations.

“I had to be open and adaptable to change, so I think adaptability is very important for trips like these and study abroad in general because you can never truly know what to expect,” she said.

Memorable moments

Blisard shares the best part of the experience for him was connecting with his trip mates.

“I enjoyed the cultural immersion activities and meeting the local students. But I think the parts I remember the most are sitting around the dinner table, getting to know my fellow students, singing karaoke and walking around the city exploring together,” he said.

As for Liang, she said she most enjoyed interactions with the TMC students, all the cultural activities they participated in and exploring the landmarks with her students.