National Geographic Student Expeditions: China

  China

• Beijing: 
Beijing
• Shanghai: 
Shanghai
• Xi'an: 
Xi'an
• Rural Areas: 
Rural Areas

Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: July 8-July 28, 2010

Description: Brimming with ancient monuments and venerable traditions, China is recasting itself as a modern power and catapulting into the 21st century. As entrepreneurs and architects build modern China, vestiges from China's long dynastic history--and the era of Mao Zedong--remain an important part of daily life. From bustling cities like Shanghai and Beijing to the timeless villages along the Li River, discover the wonders of old China, and examine the rewards and challenges that come with its rapid change.

Choose one of these On Assignment projects. Throughout your expedition, break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Assemble a portfolio that addresses a facet of life in China. Shoot portraits of local farmers or document Beijing's ancient neighborhoods. From children playing on Tiananmen Square to the soaring karst formations of the Li River to Shanghai's serene temple gardens, capture the many faces of China.

EXPLORATION: Delve into a topic that piques your interest. Discover how the principle of feng shui has dictated architectural style and city planning, or talk to urban teenagers about Chinese pop culture. Discuss the differences between educational systems in the U.S. and China with local students and teachers. Meet with artists and crafts people carrying on timeless artistic traditions, or investigate China's rapid economic transformation from the perspectives of local merchants, farmers, or environmentalists.

Highlights:
* Paddle through tributaries of the Li River
* Visit the terra-cotta warriors in Xi'an
* Meet editors from National Geographic magazine's Chinese-language edition
* Hike along the Great Wall
* Teach songs and games in a Chinese orphanage
* Practice tai chi in a rural village
* Delve into your On Assignment project: Photography or Exploration

Cost in US$: USD 6,990

The internal flights from Xi'an to Guilin and from Guilin to Shanghai are included in the tuition. International airfare is not included. We have arranged international group flights from Los Angeles to Beijing and return from Shanghai.

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to China Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

National Geographic Student Expeditions's Mission Statement: In the spirit of adventure and discovery that has inspired National Geographic photographers, writers, and scientists over the years, National Geographic Student Expeditions invites the next generation of explorers to join us in the field. Our expeditions go beyond just exploring great destinations. Students participate in an On Assignment project, get involved in local communities, and travel in the company of dynamic trip leaders and a National Geographic expert. By offering high school students the opportunity to experience new cultures and environments firsthand, National Geographic Student Expeditions is an extension of the National Geographic Society's mission to increase global understanding through exploration, geography, education, and research; and to inspire the next generation to care about our planet.

Year Founded: 1888