Wuxi is a window on China for Kelli Michelle Dougal.
Kelli, born in the 1990s, began to teach at Jiangnan University in Wuxi in 2014. She graduated from the University of California, Davis in 2012 with a degree in psychology.
Kelli, born in the 1990s, begins to teach at Jiangnan University in Wuxi in 2014. |
This is her first visit to China; previously, she had only been to the US and Canada.
She knew about Wuxi from one of her American friends, who also taught English at Jiangnan University at that time.
Kelli was drawn to the city's scenic attractions and distinctive culture and decided to work in Wuxi.
Although Wuxi was quite different for her, she adapted to living in China gradually.
Over the past year, Kelli got around a lot in her spare time. Nanchan Temple and the Lingshan Buddhist Scenic Spot impressed her the most.
"Nanchan Temple is bustling with people and the Lingshan Buddhist Scenic Spot is tranquil and peaceful," Keli said.
What's more, she had trips to Suzhou, Nanjing, Guilin and Shanghai. Compared with other cities, Wuxi is "more sweet and beautiful, just like its food".
She often posts photos of what she's seen and eaten in China on the Internet after travelling to share "the new world" with her friends.
"I even guided my mother and my boyfriend around China," she told reporters, showing the photos taken during their tour.
In spite of returning to the US for a master's degree next year, Kelli is striving to learn Chinese. |
In spite of returning to the US for a master's degree next year, Kelli is striving to learn Chinese. Now she can speak simple Chinese.
Mahjong is a way to experience Chinese culture. It's a crazily popular game across China. So Kelli learned mahjong as well, "but it's a little hard for me."
"I think I'll come back with my family and friends, though I'll leave once more for further study."