Over the weekend, exchange intern Liya visited New York and spent time in Long Island, invited by a friend to celebrate Thanksgiving with their family. She learned that Thanksgiving, with its turkey, abundant food, and quality time with loved ones, shared similarities with how Chinese New Year is celebrated—centered on family and meaningful gatherings.

In New York City, Liya explored iconic landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, Times Square, the 9/11 Memorial, Rockefeller Center, Chinatown, and even caught a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty from afar. True to her expectations, New York was a vibrant, bustling city filled with lights, activities, and tourists—a memorable experience indeed.