Basically, advice from a future you to yourself.

Hey all, this is Cameron from Anyhelper. I’m an intern working in the Business Development department, and my semester is ending next week-super sad to be leaving Shanghai and ending my internship. Normally I proofread the articles, but I wanted to do something different before I leave and write my own from scratch. So, in the spirit of helping foreigners (especially those of you who will be studying for a semester abroad,) here are my six “You gotta think about this” pieces of advice. For those of you who have a bad memory like me and really want an acronym, I’m gonna L.E.A.R.N you a thing.

1

Loosen up

This is probably what I struggled with the most at first- being able to take in all the new experiences and not let it get to you. It’s natural to turtle up (saying no to school outings, getting into a routine, worrying about money or time more than you need to.) Your time abroad is going to be fantastic no matter how you spend it. Stay in the moment and hang out with people who open you up instead of shutting you down.

2

Expect to make mistakes

Whether it’s trying to figure out the most complicated language in the world or paying vendors on WeChat the wrong amount, nobody gets away unscathed. The best thing you can do is stay calm and try to figure out how serious a problem it is. You accidentally call two DiDi’s and you’re dealing with angry cabbies? Not a big deal. Stopped at the airport because you forgot you had a big bottle of mouthwash in your bag? A little more of an issue. Develop a gauge for danger and be solution-oriented. “Those who don’t learn to fail, have failed to learn.”

3

Ask questions

Speaking of failing, a good question in any language is “How can I do better next time?” Don’t be afraid to ask your Chinese roommate to come to the bank or wherever and help you translate. If you’re struggling in your class, remember that you didn’t travel thousands of miles to have your questions get skipped over. When you can’t keep your addresses straight in GaoDe Maps, ask “Is there a better way to do this?” (Hint: Yes, star them!) Don’t be embarrassed, everyone is adjusting right along with you.

4

Remember, remember, remember

Experiences and memories are going to be worth more than that $160 skateboard you got on TaoBao for just 500 RMB. Take pictures and videos, even if it’s embarrassing or makes you stand out…if you’re studying in China and not part of the 93% Han majority, you’re standing out already! Make a journal, post on social media, make time to call your momma because she will remember a hundred times better than you. Souvenirs and pictures are great, but friends are even greater, so meet everyone you can.

5

No starting fires

Metaphorically, of course (not that any fires you start would last long in Shanghai, with how many fire hydrants and hoses there are.) You’re going to want people who enjoy your presence, and what might seem like a joke to you could hit someone else’s sore spot. You know you’re in good waters when you and your friends can joke about each other, but also be sure to stick up for yourself. Draw clear lines about what is and what isn’t your business. Don’t burn bridges, seriously. Anyone can into a business connection, a special someone, your go-to tour guide, or your new favorite classmate. 24 million people in Shanghai alone, and you don’t need to pick fights with a single one.  

6

Engage

Because 6 is a lucky number in Chinese, I’ve got one more sixth point that summarizes all the other ones: Engage. Stay involved, stay curious, and make the most of the time you have. You’re going to want to take breaks, and in the process, you will start to slack on exploring the city of your dreams. Get enough sleep but when you’re awake, be present. “Don’t count the days, make the days count.”

CONTRIBUTOR

Cameron

If you want to be an AnyShanghai's contributor, feel free to contact Anna!

AnyShanghai Advisors

AnyShanghai has a team of advisors that provides professional suggestions and solutions to the expat communities in Shanghai. If you have questions related to their expertise, feel free to contact them by long pressing the QR code.

If you have problems extracting the code, click to enlarge the name card and long press on the code.

AND MORE:

Swipe LEFT on the name card to see more info.

Follow us for the latest about Shanghai!

Click "Wow" if you like this article