Which one of your identity/ identities would you add in the blank space?
Chinese student, international student, a foreigner, an outlander.Female student, heterosexualLiberal, democratic
I have a strong Chinese identity and have eight or nine years of work experience. I call myself a mid-career professional in China. But here I’m like a “baby” student.
How did you experience your identity, both positively and negatively at MIIS?
As a Chinese student who studies international policy, I am among the few in the DPP program. Most Chinese students are in GSTILE. I’m a little bit isolated. I’ve gone through a lot of cultural conflicts because I am coming from a different country and a different culture from so many other students in my program. I try my best to attend different social events and to mingle with other students from DPP, but I just feel like they are the other. I also feel a disconnect from Chinese students in GSTILE as well.
As a foreigner living in Monterey, I had problems living with my white landlady. She didn’t like the way I cooked and would sometimes yell at me. She sent me an article that listed dangerous products imported from China. She would judge how I dressed and tell me that my clothes were knockoffs. I wanted to find other housing, but it wasn’t possible financially. I feel a little bit traumatized by her behavior.
Tell us about one memorable concept/lesson that you learned in connection with your identity or diversity and inclusion broadly from a MIIS community member/s?
Chinese students should contribute more to building this community. Because of the language barrier and cultural differences, you may have to study more but you should still find a way to contribute. Even after hearing from other Chinese students who have participated more actively and they’ve felt marginalized as a result, I’ve felt less willing to engage. But still, I think it’s important.
How has your time at MIIS prepared you to deal with power and privilege in the world outside of the Institute?
For many Chinese students, studying in the US is like a dream. Having a degree from the US, you feel like you’re superior. Why do Chinese students admire American culture so much? Since I live in the US, I notice that I have this kind of white privilege in China. When you have English, you gain advantages.
I also think adapting aspects of American culture, especially manners and courtesy in public spaces, could benefit people in China. Things like saying hello and opening doors for one another.
What is one suggestion you have for the MIIS community?
There should be more support and more guidance for Chinese and other international students in GSIPM. Provide information on what sort of services are actually available. A mentoring program could maybe help with passing on this information better. Chinese students in GSTILE have a strong community, which isn’t the same for GSIPM.
I was involved in a car accident. And you realize how weak your network is in Monterey. In China, your family would take care of you. But here, that’s not possible. It makes me realize Americans are so independent and so individualistic. They seem very tough. There is a metaphor I heard that describes this difference: Americans are like peaches, with a soft outside and a hard core. Chinese people are like coconuts. It’s difficult to approach them, but when you have become closer with them they will be very open with you.
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