Hello

Hi Everyone,

My name is Clarissa and I am a senior biology major at the Lawrenceville campus. I also play softballl for Rider. When I first heard about this trip I was ecstatic and knew I had to go. I too have been studying the martial arts for many years now and have always admired the Asian culture. Last January I was able to study abroad for sixteen days in Jamaica. It was my first time out of the US and I vowed that it would not be my last. I had an amazing time and met some amazing people. This summer I was fortunate enough to spend some time in the Dutch Caribbean playing softball in Curacao, an island 40 miles of the coast of Venezuela. Twas wonderful to say the least! Although books are nice (ha ha), there is nothing like emerging yourself into a culture and experiencing it first hand. I have been talking about this trip to China for months now and cannot believe that it is a week and a half away. I am looking forward to seeing the Buddha, eating the food, learning from the people, shopping and making memories.