Hello,
I’m writing to update you about my internship in south China. It’s been quite an adventure thus far. I’ve had several unique experiences with the different food, culture, and people. Most, if not all of them, have been very humorous experiences. I’m a bit strapped for time so I’ll save the details for when I get back.
I am already halfway finished with my trip, and I have taken water samples in 37 villages so far. From this point on, I’ll mainly be focused on designing future water infrastructure for a few of the villages in need. The area where I’m staying is extremely beautiful, and I hope to be able to show you some of the photos that I’ve taken along the way.
Overall, its been a great experience. The people are more than generous and extremely friendly. They are a people rich in culture and customs; however, there is a very large western influence finding its way into Chinese life. The food is a bit strange, in my opinion, but that was expected. My diet has been radically changed from the typical male college student’s diet, but I can usually find a few dishes that remind me of home, at least in some ways. I’ve even had several meals where I would’ve liked to get the recipe. One thing is for sure, the Chinese people do not lack food or appetite in my experience - they feed you ’til you’re full and then feed you more. Since I’ve been here, they have fed me 3 square meals a day and I’ve never left the table without being extremely full.
I’m having a great time, and my research is going well. I’m also anxious to get back to Texas and see family and friends. Thanks for all the prayers and support. I hope things are going well on the homefront. I’ll be talking with you soon.
-Calvin
Water to be sampled:
Collecting a sample:
Recording data:
And, some sweet local children:
