Student Testimonial: Justin
Justin's Bio: I am from UTM and my program of study is political science specialist. I’ll be entering my fourth year this September.
Justin gave an extraordinary glimpse into his experiences in the Beijing 2025 Summer Abroad program. Justin found the program impactful and had a special experience learning about the culture and making meaningful friendships. Read his testimonial below to find out what made Justin's experience in Beijing so unforgettable.
Taking part in the Beijing Summer Abroad program through SOC393Y0 was an experience that exceeded my expectations in every way. I was drawn to this course because it offered something rare: the chance to study sociology not just in theory, but in direct connection with the society we were learning about. Topics like aging, urbanization, and digital life were no longer abstract once we were living them daily in Beijing. Among all the Summer Abroad options, this course stood out for its promise to connect academic content with real-world observation.
One of the most impactful moments of the program was our field trip to a Beijing elder care center. It wasn’t just a lesson in how the business sector is addressing the country’s aging population—it was also a moment of personal connection. Professor Zhang stood beside us, chatting and answering our questions casually, like a friend. That experience made me realize how close we had grown over the course of the program, and how this class had become more than just a classroom—it was a community.
I was also surprised by how deeply integrated technology is in everyday life in Beijing. From paying for street snacks with QR codes to booking services through apps, everything felt fast and seamless. But what truly surprised me, academically, was how much I learned outside of class. Mornings at the Temple of Heaven showed me seniors dancing, doing tai chi, and even singing opera—a vibrant public life I hadn’t expected. Visits to Confucius Temple and the Imperial College helped me reflect on how historical values still shape modern life, especially in education and social hierarchy. Walking through Tsinghua and Peking University campuses gave me a window into the world of China’s elite students, while the panoramic view from Jingshan Park, overlooking the Forbidden City, made me think deeply about power, space, and tradition in urban design.
Food was another lens through which I understood the city. Trying Beijing roast duck felt like participating in a cultural ritual. But what surprised me more was lǔ zhǔ—a local stew made of pork offal. It was unfamiliar in taste and texture, yet offered a glimpse into Beijing’s everyday culinary traditions. It taught me that sociology isn’t just about theories—it’s about being present, observing daily life, and keeping an open mind.
To students heading to Beijing for the first time, I’d say: pack light, walk a lot, and stay curious. Climbing the Great Wall or exploring the Summer Palace can be physically demanding, but always rewarding. Don’t be afraid to go beyond the syllabus—some of my most meaningful experiences came from exploring places like Peking University, Confucius Temple, and local parks on my own. Also, prepare for how digital everything is: get used to using apps like WeChat and Alipay in advance. Most importantly, build connections. The friendships I formed with my classmates were a huge part of what made the experience so special.
What I’ll carry with me most is the bond I built with my peers. Studying and exploring Beijing together turned us into a close-knit group. We navigated subways, shared late-night snacks, and helped each other through both academic work and daily challenges. Even though Professor Zhang only joined us on two field trips, those moments were unforgettable—especially watching him interact with locals at the elder care center, which grounded our academic discussions in real-life experiences. This combination of learning, discovery, and friendship made the Beijing Summer Abroad program truly unforgettable.