Between 4−5 stars rating, 06 November 2014 Studying in China: A Practical Handbook for Students
By: Angela Platt
I recommend this book to study abroad students and advisors alike. As a study abroad advisor (and someone who lived in China 9 years ago), I think 'Studying in China' offers a fantastic head start in terms of understanding China and Chinese culture. As I recently read the book and thought back on my own experiences in China, I found myself nodding and saying "Yes, this is what it was like for me." Or, "Oh! I wish I would have realized that before." ... See More style="BACKGROUND: white">'Studying in China' goes beyond traditional travel guides that focus primarily on short term tourists. This book delves more into the day to day living in China and offers additional cultural understanding. The book is comprehensive and will help study abroad students prepare mentally and practically for their journey ahead. It can also help study abroad advisors identify important topics to highlight in advising sessions and pre-departure meetings.
There are many helpful chapters. In particular, I enjoyed the sections on Geography, Before You Go Preparations, Being a Foreign Student in China, Daily Life, and Intercity Travel. Great detail went into each chapter's descriptions and analyses. It's impossible to grasp everything about a country and culture just by reading a book, but students will be grateful they've read this when they arrive in China and can more smoothly navigate their experience. I know I would have felt more informed, empowered, and resourceful if I had read this before my year in China. Students would be doing themselves a great favor by reading this book before going abroad.”Angela Platt, International Programs Counselor, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)