CHINA - SHANGHAI

As I approach the end of my stay abroad in China, I now reflect on how my understanding of the unknown has developed in this culture. One of the biggest challenges and at the same time the most fascinating aspects of my stay in Shanghai were the "great distances and dimensions" of this mega-metropolis.

When I arrived in Shanghai, I was overwhelmed by the sheer size of the city. The endless skyscrapers, the wide streets and the huge crowds were impressive, but also intimidating. It seemed impossible to find your way around this huge metropolis and develop a sense of familiarity. The dimensions of the city, both physically and culturally, were overwhelming.

As time went on, I began to explore the city and my perspective changed. I learned to use public transportation, found my favorite places and developed a routine. The great distances that seemed so overwhelming at first became a part of my everyday life. Also due to the reliability of the metro, which I have already mentioned, these distances almost became a stone's throw. I began to appreciate the diversity of the city – from the modern skyscrapers in Pudong to the traditional alleys in the old town. The dimensions, which at first seemed so strange to me, became a familiar and appreciated part of my life in Shanghai.

A decisive moment on my way to familiarity was when I started to explore the city by bike. This allowed me to experience the city at a slower pace and notice the little details that I would otherwise have overlooked. I discovered hidden parks, small cafes and local markets that helped me discover a whole new side of the city and its inhabitants.

Another important aspect was making friends. Through my studies and social activities I got to know many locals and other internationals. These relationships helped me to better understand the cultural nuances and to feel more at home in the city. Shared experiences, such as celebrating traditional festivals or eating together, deepened my understanding and appreciation for Chinese culture. A great help would be my shared flat with Chinese roommates who welcomed me very warmly and with whom I could also discover the not so touristy corners of Shanghai. Roommates who initiated me into the Chinese kitchen at home but also showed how they look at our side of the world during the HeimEM period.

These experiences have contributed significantly to my intercultural learning. It taught me to look beyond my initial judgments and to seek a deeper meaning of cultural practices. I realized that what may seem unknown or insignificant at first glance can have profound meaning and value. One of these practices was to catch up on weekend holidays. A practice that does not exist in Europe. And yet it is used here in China. At first this situation was very suspicious to me but after this occurred a few times I learned to deal with it and assume that this is not so custom. This change of perspective has also changed my self-perception. I became more open, more patient and appreciated the many ways in which people find joy and meaning in their lives.

Another example of my intercultural learning was attending a Chinese cooking class. By cooking and eating together with the other participants, I learned not only new recipes, but also the importance of community and hospitality in Chinese culture. These experiences helped me to reflect and appreciate my own cultural roots, while remaining open to new experiences and perspectives.

These experiences have enriched my intercultural understanding and helped me to grow as an individual. Shortly before my departure from Shanghai, some impressions were reviewed. I once again returned to special places, let the city affect me once again talked to people with whom I did not have to deal in everyday life just to absorb this culture again, to become aware of what a special opportunity I had to get to know this culture. Then I realized once again how much culture has grown close to my heart in recent months and how much I could learn from the new experiences and cultural differences.

So I take the lessons learned and memories made with me. Not only the great distances and dimensions that initially seemed so overwhelming became an integral and cherished part of my life in Shanghai. But also to build a close connection to their culture and their people. This experience has not only enriched my intercultural understanding, but also promoted my self-awareness and my personal growth.