Milana's Post

In June 2025, I had the honor and privilege of spending nine unforgettable days in China as part of a cultural immersion trip with Odyssey Project and the US-Sino Culture Exchange Consortium (USCEC). When I first heard about the opportunity—only two months before departure—I was hesitant. I had never traveled to China, didn’t know much about the culture, and honestly felt intimidated by the idea of going somewhere so far from everything familiar.

But I reminded myself that opportunities like this don’t come around often. I knew I might never again have the chance to explore China with a group of people who understood the language, traditions, and cultural nuances well enough to guide me through it. So instead of letting my fear take over, I said yes.

Before visiting, I had no idea how advanced China’s technology was. From the moment we landed I noticed how the Public transportation, digital payment systems, security, and everyday tech were far beyond anything I’d experienced back home. It was incredible seeing how seamlessly technology was integrated into daily life.

A major highlight was our visit to the zoo, where I felt like a kid again. Another unforgettable moment was touring the University of Chinese Medicine. Learning about traditional healing practices, herbs, treatments, and the philosophy behind Chinese medicine gave me a new appreciation for the way culture shapes health and wellness across the world. As someone who works in physical therapy, this experience opened my eyes to different ways of understanding the body, healing, and patient care.

But the most meaningful part of the trip wasn’t just the places we visited—it was the people. I met some of the most amazing people. Definitely a unique experience traveling with a group of like-minded people who are eager to learn, explore, and grow. We laughed, shared meals, navigated subways, tried new foods, got lost together, and learned from each other every day. Those bonds are what made the experience feel complete.

By the end of the nine days, I felt transformed, more globally aware, more culturally curious, and more confident in my ability to embrace the unknown. What started as fear became one of the most enriching experiences of my life. And the connections I made along the way are what continue to inspire me long after returning home.