Day 1: Flying High

By: Lucy Dabbs, Georges P. Vanier Secondary School, participant of the 2017 Beijing International Education Exchange (BIEE) Summer Camp.

In 10 hours and 2 minutes we will arrive in Beijing at 3:16 PM, 15 hours in the future. At least that's what the flight details scrolling across the bottom of the touch screen says, as I experiment with the different buttons of this fancy Air China TV. At a current ground speed of 690 km/h, climbing an altitude of 7212m with an outside air temperature of -25 degrees Celsius; that translates to about five airplane movies, a bag of Doritos, and 2 helpings of those little airplane meals served in plastic trays, until we finally stand on solid ground again.

I sit among 22 students and our 3 chaperones, now seated around the airplane in the same general area as one another. I have not had the chance to talk to everyone yet, but we've all introduced our names at the airport. For about an hour and a half we sat together while groups of us went to check in. Looking from face to face, some nervous, some excited, some shy, but all looked friendly. I took each one in, realizing that these 22 students from all corners of British Columbia would be the people who will share this experience with me. Not just going to Beijing China, but discovering what this camp would hold.

We talked to one another about where we’re from and our different experiences with travelling. Some have passports chock full of stamps from numerous countries, others have just gotten their passport for the first time in their life less than a week ago. I also find out that a few have been to China before, for a few weeks just like I had.

Having been to China already I find myself a little more prepared and a lot less terrified for the cultural wonders awaiting in Asia. I had ventured to Shanghai during Spring break only a few months ago, staying with a host family and attending classes; with a side trip to Beijing to visit the Great Wall. Although this particular country is familiar to me, China was my first overseas trip so it is still very exciting to get to fly over the Pacific Ocean again. Not only that, I have no doubt going to a Summer camp of students from countries all across the world will be an eye-opening experience I can’t even imagine.

The chance to go to China for a second time gives me the opportunity to focus more on the people. I have only recently become involved with international programs in the Comox Valley, and now that I've been exposed to the wonderful world of international friendships and education, I can't get enough. When I found out about this international camp offered by BCCIE I knew I had to do it. I am so excited to be a part of this event with over 700 participants from 32 countries, representing BC as an ambassador of Canada.

As I sit on this plane listening to the latest Chinese hip hop songs, I can't imagine what the next 10 days will hold, but I know I will never forget it; and that is the best feeling ever.

And now, from 9754m in the air above Russia, until next time.