The program provides an opportunity for you to conduct an independent study. Projects are guided by local scholars, specialists, and program staff and require a significant analytical component in the form of a written report as well as other documentation of learning. The program strongly recommends you select a project that involves field research, oral interviews, ethnography, and other techniques that facilitate cultural immersion over those involving primarily library research. Topic selection may be limited due to available resources and local conditions. During most of the semester you will live on campus with Chinese roommates.
Urban families live in a small apartment and speak little or no English.
Rural families live in small brick homes with no indoor plumbing. There is little chance for privacy in the homestays. Initially you may find adjustment to such households difficult but students often consider the homestay to be the most transformative dimension of the program. To deepen your understanding of topics covered in the core course, you will travel to various locations in China. Destinations may change from semester to semester.