Summer Heritage Study Program in China 2025 (SHC2025)
language · culture · experience
July 6 to Aug 2, 2025
Organized by China Institute in America
The Summer Heritage Study Program in China (SHC 2025) is designed to immerse Chinese American high school students in China’s rich culture and dynamic way of life. This transformative experience aims to help participants forge meaningful connections with and foster a sense of pride in their cultural heritage, develop a deep understanding of China’s diverse traditions, and inspire positive contributions to their communities and beyond.
This program is made possible through the generous support of the Tsao Family Foundation.
Program Overview
This four-week journey, taking place in China from July 6 to August 2, 2025, will bring up to 30 American high school students to the vibrant cities of Shanghai, Beijing, and Hong Kong.
Students will spend the first three weeks on the picturesque campus of East China Normal University in Shanghai. Each morning, they will participate in intensive language immersion classes designed to strengthen their Mandarin proficiency. Afternoons will feature carefully curated cultural activities led by university experts, including traditional art, music, and culinary workshops. Students will also have opportunities to engage with Chinese peers, experience family life in Shanghai, and explore the city’s modern and historic landmarks.
In the program’s fourth week, participants will travel to Beijing to visit some of China’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, gaining insight into the country’s ancient history and cultural legacy. The program concludes in Hong Kong, where students will witness the dynamic fusion of East and West. They will explore one of the world’s most fast-paced cities while discovering its preserved fishing villages and bustling business hubs, offering a unique perspective on cultural convergence.
By participating in SHC 2025, students will not only strengthen their language skills and cultural understanding but also leave with lifelong memories, new friendships, and a renewed appreciation for their cultural heritage.
Program Features
- Intensive Immersion Language Classes for Heritage Learners.
Participants will significantly advance their Chinese language in conversation, reading and writing, through a fully immersive three-week study on the charming campus of the renowned East China Normal University (ECNU). Led by experienced Chinese language instructors from ECNU, students will benefit from small and highly interactive classes, plenty of practice time with Chines peers and a broader community, and a customized curriculum designed for Chinese heritage learners integrating both language and cultural content. Students will not only refine their language abilities but also build confidence in real-world communication. - Deeper Connection to Your Cultural Heritage.
Explore the streets of a Shanghai neighborhood on a city walk, offering a glimpse into China’s rich past and vibrant present; Stand atop a tower of the Great Wall, a testament to ancient China’s advanced engineering and its enduring significance as a cultural icon; Trace the handprints of your favorite actors and actresses along the Avenue of Stars at Victoria Harbor, where the fusion of East and West comes alive…These thoughtfully curated cultural activities immerse students in iconic places, meaningful encounters, and captivating stories woven seamlessly into the program curriculum. Students will be encouraged and guided to reflect, engage, and discover connections that inspire a deeper appreciation of their cultural heritage. - My Cross-Cultural Journey.
At the conclusion of the program, all participants will be tasked to complete a reflective presentation under the theme of “My Cross-Cultural Journey.” This capstone project encourages students to integrate the knowledge and insights gained during the program, explore their personal and family cross-cultural experiences, and develop a concrete plan to share their learning with their communities back in the U.S. Participants who propose and execute eligible projects can earn community service hours for their efforts, further emphasizing the program’s goal of fostering meaningful cultural exchange and community impact.
Program Details
Dates: July 6 – August 2, 2025 (in-country dates only. Group departures on July 5 from LAX)
Program Fee: $2,500
- Include all in-country class fees, cultural activities, group meals*, group travel insurance, materials and transportation that are arranged by the program.
- NOT include international airfare between U.S. and China, and visa or travel document application fee if applicable.
*Individual meal plans for the first 3 weeks are not included. Students need to recharge the ECNU campus card at their own expense to pay for meals on campus, with daily dining costs averaging $10 to $15. The campus card can also be used for purchases at other on-campus locations, such as grocery stores and bookstores.
With the generous support of the Tsao Family Foundation, we are pleased to offer the program at a significantly reduced fee, approximately one-third of its original cost of $7,500.
Eligibility:
- Currently enrolled in 9 to 11 grades in an accredited high school in Orange County, CA
- At least one year experience learning Chinese language
- Have a proven academic track record equivalent with a GPA of 3.5 (out of a total of 4) or above
- Demonstrate the willingness to gain a deeper understanding of one’s own Chinese cultural heritage, family history and cross-cultural experiences
- Have demonstrated competence to interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds
- Demonstrate the need to join the program as an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of one’s cultural heritage
- Commit to accomplish a final project during the program for future community engagement upon return
- Must hold American citizenship
How To Apply
- A completed application form Application Form
- A recommendation letter from the school (see detailed requirements)
- A personal statement of interest (see detailed requirements)
APPLICATION DEADLINE: WEDNESDAY, March 23, 2025 5:00 PM (PT)
Sign up a virtual info session to learn more about the program:
5:00 PM (PT), Tuesdays, January 14, 28
5:00 PM (PT), Thursdays, February 13, 20, 27
5:00 PM (PT), Wednesdays, March 5, 12
Welcome to schedule a dedicated session for your school or PTA!
Have a question? Please contact Assistant Director of Education Zoe Jia, at [email protected], or call (212) 744-8181, ext. 136.