Allana I.

I had a few reasons for taking a gap year: 1. I had worked very hard in high school and needed a break 2. I was interested in learning a... keep reading

When I arrived to China, I was surprised to hear that all CIEE students who needed to get a residence permit would need to partake in a group physical. I... keep reading

Here in Shanghai, although I have friends, teachers, and a Chinese host family, I am ultimately on my own. I can choose to leave the house in the middle of... keep reading

I love bubble tea! Also called boba, this sweet, chewy, delicious drink originated in Taiwan and has spread worldwide, although it is still not as readily available in America as... keep reading

This past week, during our week of vacation, CIEE took its students to one of three locations: Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Gausu Province. I chose to go to Taiwan, so... keep reading

Hi! I’m Allana and I’m currently in Shanghai learning Mandarin as my gap year! I designed my gap year to be a “breather” year between high school and college: a... keep reading