Home Visits
by Stephanie Appell

After a day of walking around Green Lake Park and having lots of tea, we all went our own way with a Chinese student. Many different activities were carried out. Most AACE students experienced rice noodles for the first time, while others made, and then ate, dumplings. "The dumpling making was definitely the highlight of our visit." Jess and Kate noted. Noel also had dumplings and loved them. Joey got to go to a Pizza Hut right in downtown Kunming with his family and really enjoyed his experience. Other students were happiest with their interaction with their new Chinese friends. Jan says, "Talking about the differences about the two cultures was awesome." Katy enjoyed the fact that the mother of the family she visited knew no English, yet was obviously delighted to have Katlyn in her home. Wyatt, on the other hand, knows some Chinese and really enjoyed talking with the people he visited. Jenna said the most worthwhile part of her visit was the conversation she and her host family had about education overseas. Justin says he felt like a "guest of honor" with his family. Those AACE students who did not talk about food or conversation spoke about the things they did with their family. I had fun singing with my friend while we walked back to the hotel. Ryan went skateboarding with his friend. Brian found the best part of his time with his Chinese friend returning to Green Lake Park for another walk around. Tyler was struck by his bus ride back to the hotel. He says he got a different view of Kunming along the way. Ms. Brooks, Ms. Simpson, Mr. Perrin and Ms. Greene enjoyed visiting an outdoor market and a nice dinner and performance. Everyone had an experience that was more amazing than their words convey, just another part of our cultural exchange!