Hello everyone! I arrived in Chengdu four days ago to start an internship in InternChina’s Chengdu office. It’s already looking to be an exciting, informative and action-packed six months. Having just finished my degree in Chinese and French at the University of Sheffield, I wanted to get back out to China and use my Chinese language skills before they slipped away for good. From my experience in China during my year abroad, studying at Nanjing University, I know the ups and downs, the joys and woes of living in China. And I can’t tell you how excited I am to be back here, but this time, with a new city to explore… hello Chengdu!

So far, I’ve tasted my first mouthfuls of authentic 川菜(Sichuan cuisine), many of which dishes, such as 鱼香茄子(fish smelling aubergine) and 回锅肉(twice-cooked pork), are old favourites from my days back in Nanjing. They’re even better here! I’ve explored the streets near my new flat, getting to know the local restaurants and discovering the Tibetan quarter near Chengdu’s South West University. The best place to buy your gold Buddhas, fur-lined monks capes, prayer beads and incense.

I also spent a day in nearby 洛带, the ancient town of Luo Dai, wandering through the streets of ancient architecture, dodging smelly tofu stalls and sampling the other street food. The 串烤鱿鱼 (spicy barbecued squid) in particular was delicious. Well worth a visit.

My first few days in the office have been a whirlwind of information; learning the ropes for the many different marketing, sales and business development tasks I’ll be getting involved in. Life in the office is going to be busy, but it couldn’t have a friendlier atmosphere. Looking forward to getting to know my new colleagues and the rest of the interns here in Chengdu.

Interested in an internship in Chengdu? Apply now.