"We believe that face-to-face, people-to-people communication and understanding in today's increasingly complex global landscape is essential," she said. "To truly understand a place, one must move beyond descriptions and reports. There is unparalleled value in seeing with your own eyes, hearing with your own ears and feeling with your heart."

Tang said attendees of last year's program "returned home not only with souvenirs but with stories, new perspectives and friendships that shape their understanding of this vast and ancient land."

Participants expressed a variety of motivations for joining the program.

"I've been studying the Chinese language and culture for the past year. I'm excited to see what I've learned being put to use, practice my language skills and compare what I've learned in a book with what I see in real life," said Sarah Elizabeth Detwiler from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

"I've always been interested in China. I think it's one of the most important countries to know about, given its significant history and global power," said Ashley Nicole Blake, a social sciences student from Harvard. "Culturally, I find it really amazing, with so many layers to discover. I watch a ton of Chinese dramas, but I also love traditional music and clothing and how fashion has progressed through history. I think those things are really influential."