Frequently Asked Questions

Discover China is an 11-day immersive cultural exchange and storytelling program developed in partnership by Odyssey Project and the U.S.–Sino Culture Experience Consortium (USCEC). Together, our two nonprofits connect young people through firsthand learning, university exchange, and youth-led storytelling

Discover China 2026 is open to U.S.-based youth and young professionals (generally ages 18–28), with priority for applicants who are:

• Focused on journalism, media, communications, documentary, photography, or storytelling, and/or

• Interested in producing strong content outputs during the program.

We welcome students, emerging professionals, and creators from diverse backgrounds. Prior China travel experience is not required.

Participants will:

• Join a small cohort (~18-20 youth storytellers) for a tailored experience.

• Travel to Nanjing for history and reflection, including visits connected to WWII Asia remembrance and peer exchange.

• Travel to Xinjiang (Urumqi as base) to learn about modern China through themes like green development, environmental restoration (e.g., desertification control), agriculture/agri-tech, infrastructure, and multicultural daily life.

• Participate in university peer exchanges (Nanjing + Xinjiang) through roundtables and/or storytelling workshops.

• Produce meaningful outputs: documentary segments, written/photo journalism, and short-form social content.

• Present work at a final showcase event for donors and community partners (U.S.-based).

The program fee of $1,500 is designed to cover a portion of program costs, including:

• Round trip international airfare from SFO

• In-country accommodation and group meals

• In-country transportation within the program itinerary

• Program activities, site visits, workshops, and peer exchanges

• Program staffing, coordination, and on-the-ground support

• Basic program insurance coverage

Note: The full cost per participant is approximately $4,000. Donor support helps bridge the gap and enables higher-quality educational experiences and content production.

The program fee covers most expenses. However, you may want to budget for:

• Passport/visa fees (if applicable)

• Personal spending money (snacks, souvenirs, etc.)

• Individual meals (not group meals)

• Optional activities outside the official itinerary

• Any personal room upgrades or extra nights not included in the program

Complete the Online Application Form – Fill out your personal, educational, and motivational details.

Applications must be submitted by March 2, 2026. Be sure to apply early as spots are limited!

Selected applicants will receive a notification on a rolling basis between February 23-March 16. Keep an eye on your email for updates and instructions.

Participant safety is a priority. We will provide:

• Clear pre-departure orientation and guidelines

• On-the-ground staff support and a communication plan

• Program insurance

• Compliance with local health and safety guidance

Participants are expected to follow program instructions and safety protocols.

Cancellations will be handled according to our cancellation policy. Because travel and program costs can become non-refundable after booking, we encourage participants to notify us as early as possible. Detailed terms will be shared upon acceptance and before any required payments.