I’m an avid follower of the YouTube channel “Seek Discomfort.” Their philosophy of stepping outside your comfort zone and traveling with intention has always resonated with me. Watching their adventures and transformative experiences inspired me to approach life with the same curiosity and courage. I noticed myself applying these principles in every step during my semester abroad in Shanghai, China.
When I chose to study abroad in Shanghai, I knew it would be way more than just academics. With just a year of Chinese under my belt, even basic conversations felt daunting. Additionally, I was an International Transracial Chinese Adoptee returning to my country alone for the first time. There were many factors leading me against studying abroad, but I decided to take the leap in the pursuit of what scared me: connecting with a culture I felt so distant from, learning a language I had only just begun, and facing challenging lessons that challenged my assumptions.
Still, I embraced each experience with the mindset I learned from Seek Discomfort: growth happens outside our comfort zones. Looking back, those moments fueled my personal growth and I can confidently say that I am forever changed and forever grateful to have had this opportunity.
One of the most rewarding parts of my time in Shanghai was seeing my progress with the Mandarin language. At first, ordering lunch at the canteen or responding to the Didi Drivers’ questions were too overwhelming. Over time, through practice and failing A LOT, I noticed I was able to hold conversations a little more and would be the one asking my Didi driver questions. Confidence in communicating is still a struggle, but progress is more valuable than perfection. These wins reminded me to embrace discomfort, rather than fear it.
I found so much strength in saying yes to as many new experiences as possible. Whenever the chance to travel or explore came up, I leaned into my curiosity. I spent weekends in Suzhou, hiked the Yellow Mountain, went all the way to Kashgar, and found hidden gems in Shanghai’s districts. These adventures deepened my appreciation for the diversity and richness of China. Growing up in the U.S., I often encountered narrow narratives about China. Experiencing the country firsthand challenged those perceptions and revealed its warmth, history, and innovation.
However, the most special component of this journey abroad was sharing it with the people I met. I met so many incredible people from every corner of the world. I did not expect to learn so much about other countries outside of China, but I found myself learning so much more about the world! Each person expanded my perspectives and taught me so many lessons I will hold dear to my heart. From “dancing through life” and just letting the wind take you wherever, to holding space for heavy conversations, I really enjoyed the people who made this experience what it truly was.
For anyone thinking about studying abroad, my advice is simple: stay curious and say yes, especially when it feels uncomfortable. Growth comes when you push past the familiar and dive fully into the unknown. Travel with purpose, connect with people from different backgrounds and embrace the messy, stressful, and imperfect process of learning.
My semester in Shanghai was far from easy, but it transformed me. I learned to trust the process, embrace challenges, and approach the world with an open heart and mind. As I head back home, I carry these lessons with me, grateful for the journey and ready to keep seeking discomfort in everything I do.