FAQs

Q: How and where do I apply for a visa?
A: You can apply your visa in the Chinese embassies in the US located in New York, Chicago, Boston and Washington DC. For your convenience we are able to help or provide the visa for you.

Q: I don't live on the east coast. How will you arrange my transportation to China?
A: Depending on availability we can arrange for air tickets for you or if you would prefer to buy your own tickets, it is not a problem.

Q: Do students have to bring some medicine on the trip?
A: Yes, students will be suggested to bring some medicines as Tylenol or Aspirin ( for headache, or stomachache) , some frequent use medicine as Advil, Imodium (for Gas, digestive Health) will also be recommended. By the way, our camp coordinators will also prepare the necessary rite aide case with the most requested instant care.

Q: Do students have any free time for shopping?
A: Yes, students will have some free time for shopping and explore the city. Camp coordinators will accompany the students to some selected local shopping centers and department stores for student’s private needs.

Q: How to communicate with home during the trip?
A: The University has its own computer center for using Internet or email in the campus. While during the trip the Internet access is readily available in the hotels and it’s very affordable (RMB 2 ~ 5 dollars per hour)

Q: Can we bring any electric devices during the trip?
A: You can bring an A/C converter if you have to use any electric devices (the voltage is 220 in China) during the trip. The battery is easy to buy at any convenient stores.

Q: Where can I do laundry?
A: Laundry service is provided in the dormitories and the hotels in the campus. Many small dry-cleaning shops are located just walking minutes from the campus.

Q: How many students participate in the program each summer?
A: Each year more than 40 students participate in our program.

Q: What are the ages of the students?
A: The majority of the students are high school and college students. We look for curious students with an interest in Chinese language and culture. Our age group range from 14 to 25 years old.

Q: I don't know any Chinese. Can I still join?
A: In fact, most of our students are just learning Chinese and is traveling to China for the first time.

Q: What kind of food will be served?
A: Studying and traveling requires the best nutrition. Our food consistently is highly praised from the past participants. Breakfast is served in buffet style in the hotel dining hall while lunch and dinner are served in traditional Chinese dishes. Food preference at the university will be made by students. During weekend excursion trips, food will be served at local restaurants. Furthermore, as we travel thru China, many different styles of local cuisines can be tasted.

Q: Will I be rooming with a roommate?
A: Yes, all the hotels offer double occupancy rooms with 2 twin beds. Single rooms can be arranged due to special circumstances.

Q: How safe is the program?
A: China is a very safe country with relative low crime rates. Shandong University’s campus can only be accessed thru 4 gates with 24-hour security. The international dormitories and hotels at Beijing, Qingdao, and Qufu all are guarded by 24-hour onsite security. We advise students to explore the cities in groups and a student teacher will chaperone all outside campus activities.

Q: How is the weather in China?
A: The temperature in the summer of Beijing is around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather in most parts of China are very hot and humid around July. When going to Qingdao, bring a jacket, as the temperature can go down to 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the night.

Q: Does the program offer any travel or medical insurance?
A: While group travel insurance is provided in the program fee medical insurance is required while the student is in China. Unless the student already have travel and medical insurance policy in place, the program will purchase medical insurance on the student’s behalf and costs will be billed to the student. Costs for medical insurance should be no more than $85 for the duration of the program.

Q: How much money should I bring?
A: Many students would like to buy souvenirs and gifts in China so the amount of money to bring can vary. Traveler’s checks and cash can easily be exchanged at most Chinese banks. All three meals plus room, transportation, group excursions, activities and admission fees to sights are all included.

Manhattan Office: 212-244-9040 Ext: Joe, Queens Office: 718-326-8888 Ext: Steve