Organized by the China Institute in America, the 2025 Summer Heritage Study Program in China (SHC) held its Student Showcase on October 26 at the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center.
Through vivid stories, photos, and videos, students captured their month-long journey of learning Chinese and discovering China.
Many shared that the experience not only opened their eyes to China’s vibrant culture, but also deepened their sense of identity, built lasting friendships, and inspired new confidence and growth.
Cultural Journey Discovering China
Shenzhan Liao, Head of the School of Chinese Studies at the China Institute in America, said the SHC was created to immerse Chinese American high school students in the richness of Chinese culture and modern life.
She thanked the Tsao Family Foundation for its generous support and the parents for their trust, which made the program a success.
Janie Tsao, founder of the Tsao Family Foundation and current Board Chair of the South Coast Chinese Cultural Association, said she was deeply moved by the students’ lively presentations.
She described the trip as more than a language program—“a feast for the senses” that allowed students to truly see, taste, and feel the spirit of Chinese culture.
Youth in Motion Memories in Bloom
At the showcase, Janie Tsao took the microphone and invited students to sum up their journey in “one word.”
Voices rang out—“Culture!” “History!” “Community!” “Shopping!” “Xiaolongbao!”—each word painting a vivid collage of youthful memories as the room filled with laughter and applause.
She expressed heartfelt thanks to the China Institute in America and the two dedicated teachers who guided the students through a safe, enriching, and joyful experience.
Janie encouraged the participants to carry the spirit of this journey beyond memories and turn it into lasting inspiration for cross-cultural understanding.
Exploring China Experiencing Culture
At the showcase, Shenzhan Liao explained that the SHC ran from July 6 to August 2, bringing together 18 students from 13 high schools across Orange County and Los Angeles.
For three weeks in Shanghai, students at East China Normal University took immersive Chinese courses and joined workshops in art, calligraphy, music, and cooking.
They also lived with local students, sharing dorms and daily life experiences in Shanghai homes.
In the final week, the group traveled to Beijing and Hong Kong, visiting the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Confucius Temple, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Disneyland, and Hong Kong’s M+ Museum and Deep Water Bay, gaining firsthand insight into the intersections of Eastern and Western culture.
Creative Sparks China in Color
During the group presentations, some students turned their experiences into magazine-style projects combining photos and reflections.
Three others created a short film themed on “color,” using shades of red, gold, blue, green, black, and white to portray “China as a land of many colors.”
Another group focused on “Urban Movement,” capturing Shanghai’s lively transportation—from subways and buses to shared bikes and tricycles.
Others shared hands-on moments making xiaolongbao, tasting zongzi at local homes, and discovering the stories behind mahjong—realizing that culture thrives not only in books, but in everyday life.
Taking Flight Dreams Fulfilled
Parent representative Catherine Lui shared that for many students, this was their first time leaving home to explore the world—an experience that brought both excitement and a touch of worry for parents.
Seeing their children grow, gain confidence, and embrace independence filled them with pride and gratitude.
She especially thanked the Tsao Family Foundation and the China Institute in America for their care and dedication, which made the program a success.
“Our children’s transformation,” she said, “is the most beautiful reward of this journey.”
The Summer Heritage Study Program in China offered every participant a full-sensory experience—from sight and taste to spirit—revealing the depth and warmth of Chinese culture.
Some rediscovered their roots, others found new direction and inspiration, and all returned home carrying their own lasting “impression of China.”
