I was looking for some readings from this class on line and somehow got into this page. Looking at it I realized I might be the last class of students who actually participated in the program and this review might not be helpful at least in the next few years. Even more so, if I hadn't decided to participate in the program a year early, I might have also lost the opportunity to participate as well.
While my current status absolutely turned this course into a once in a life-time experience, I'd say objectively I also learnt quite much from the class in a chill way. During the pre-departure conference I said I chose this program as I wanted to learn more about the country in which I grew up deeper through different perspectives, and I did achieve that goal through the class. Professor Yan's unique background made him capable of understanding the unique feature of the country and the city, which brought tremendous value to me. Though I might not be able to change my current situation, I still feel lucky that at least I can understand the essence of it based on what I learnt from the class.
Well, honestly I didn't realize how much I learnt from this course plus how much Professor Yan influenced my life until recently, as it suddenly (actually not quite sudden) becomes so relevant to my life. But in 2019, what I enjoyed more was actually the schedule and design of the course. We got plenty of time to explore the city by ourselves as Professor Yan strongly encouraged us to do so. This may be the last normal summer I've had, and I'll miss it for the rest of my life.
Ok - sorry about making the comment too personal - but I guess it's fine cause I think the program will not resume at least for the next few years. But I genuinely wish my prediction is wrong.