In honour of our good friend and colleague, Justin Shapiro, who tragically passed away in 2017, we launched The Justin Shapiro Internship and Travel Scholarship, in partnership with CRCC Asia. The programme allows a number of young people, who may not otherwise have a chance to do so, to experience working and travelling in China. Here are some of the highlights from when we spoke to Charles Henry, who went to China this summer, about his experiences during his 1-month long internship at CRCC Asia and on The Dragon Trip’s 21-day backpacking adventure.
What attracted you to the Justin Shapiro scholarship?
I was already planning a trip to China with my Chinese teacher when she found out about the opportunity. It was pretty much a no-brainer, I filled out the application right away and crossed my fingers.
What made you want to visit China?
To learn Chinese. I studied Chinese for 4 years in high school and I’m still studying it here in college. That’s really the main reason why I wanted to go over there.
What would you tell people who are thinking of travelling to China?
Use Chinese, always use Chinese. Even if you’re not trying to learn the language, people there really like to see an effort. Even if it’s just simple things like ordering food at a restaurant. You just have a better time!
What was the most unique thing you saw in China?
The first thing that comes to mind it Chairman Mao. His body is preserved in the mausoleum in Tiananmen Square. I got to see that on one of the last weekends that I was in China, and that was quite the experience, really unique.
Watch the full video here!
To find out more about the Justin Shapiro Internship & Travel Scholarship and how to apply for 2019, click here.
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