Moving to a new country is never as easy as it seems. When I decided to move from the U.S. to China for the MMS: Duke Kunshan University (MMS: DKU) program, I was filled with excitement and determination. This was a path I had chosen for myself, and I was ready for the adventure. While it came with its own set of challenges, I saw each one as an opportunity to grow — exactly what I had signed up for.

Reality hit quickly when I arrived in China. My phone wasn’t working, I hadn’t brought Chinese yuan (only U.S. dollars, which aren’t accepted easily), and I didn’t have basics like a blanket or even a local bank account. I also discovered that my iPhone from the U.S. didn’t have a SIM card slot, making it even harder to get connected.

Despite all this, I reminded myself why I was here. I had chosen this journey with the purpose to experience a new culture, to challenge myself, and to grow. And I was determined to make it work.

A Supportive Community

Thankfully, I was not alone. A friend and his aunt picked me up from the airport, helped me get a SIM card, and even made sure I had something to eat. My course coordinator, Tina, welcomed me warmly and brought me a water bottle on my first day — a small gesture that made a big difference.

From there, step by step, things started falling into place. I managed to set up Alipay even without a Chinese number, allowing me to buy food and other essentials. Tina arranged for one of her interns to help me open a bank account and order a new phone. With a working phone, access to money, and a little guidance, I slowly found my footing.

Of course, there were still challenges — figuring out where to shop, how to order food, how to travel — but each small success felt like a personal victory. Whether it was buying a blanket, navigating the city during Chinese New Year, or traveling to Shanghai on my own, every experience built my confidence.

Staying Resilient Despite Challenges

This journey taught me that strength doesn’t come from everything going perfectly. It comes from facing difficulties, staying committed, and believing in yourself — even when things are unfamiliar and hard. Crying or feeling overwhelmed is natural, and there were moments I did feel that way. But each time, I chose to stand up, move forward with grace, and keep believing in my own strength.

I’m proud to say that I never shied away from asking for help, using hand gestures, or relying on a translator app when needed. Independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone — it means being resourceful, adaptable, and open to learning.

My Essential Tips

For anyone preparing to move to China, here are a few essentials that helped me settle in:

1. Bring a phone with a SIM card port or an unlocked device
2. Carry some Chinese yuan in cash for the first few days
3. Activate Alipay or WeChat Pay in advance (essential for daily life)
4. Download a translator app — it will be your best friend
5. Open a bank account at China Construction Bank (quick and easy, especially with Duke’s partnership)
6. Get your VPN set up at the Duke library IT desk (first floor)
7. Visit MIXC mall for immediate needs and explore apps like Taobao for affordable shopping later.
8. Most importantly, stay strong and trust yourself.

There will be overwhelming days, and that’s okay. Remember why you chose this journey and believe in the person you are becoming through it. Opportunities like this are rare, and being at Duke and living this experience is truly something special.

“You are stronger than the struggles you face — and every step forward is proof.”

Go Duke!