JMS students forge global connections with spring break trip to China

While many SDSU students use spring break as a time to rest and recharge, 34 JMS majors embarked on an impactful journey to Hangzhou, China to learn about the country, its media ecosystem and what it is like to be a college student there.

Planning for the trip began when JMS director Temple Northup visited the Communication University of Zhejiang, located in Hangzhou, last fall. They expressed interest in having students visit, an opportunity by which Northup was immediately intrigued. 

“I have taken students all over the world before,” Northup shared. “But a major difference between this trip and others was the university’s commitment to have their students fully participate in the program. I think having those students allowed all of us to create a deeper bond with the area, one that we all will remember.”

Students who took part in the trip agreed that being able to share these experiences with CUZ students was extremely impactful. Public Relations major Kiara Dorado is extremely grateful for the relationships she made throughout the trip.

“The highlight of the trip for me was probably meeting the Chinese students from the school because genuinely I don’t think we would’ve had the same experience if it wasn’t for them. We got to see the places through their eyes and because of that, I didn’t really feel like a tourist,” said Dorado.

Throughout the trip, JMS students visited various landmarks and historical sites. Northup’s favorite day was when the group visited the Longjing tea Village in Zhejiang. During this day, the group met with a local tea farmer, toured her tea fields and visited her home as well. 

“One of the most memorable moments for me was hiking up the mountain where the green tea was being picked. Not only was it incredibly beautiful there, but it was an unique experience. I remember looking around reflecting on what an amazing opportunity to be among those picking the green tea for tea that we could later buy,” recalled Northup. 

This experience left students with a new outlook on China and on the world as well. Many students who took part in the trip are already ready to go back.

“If anyone asks me if they should go to China, I would say 100% yes. And I hope to return in the future,” said Dorado.