Peng Yining, China Daily reporter,2011 EWC alumni

Parvin Fellowship not only provides us an opportunity to go back to school to fine-tune our skills, but it also exposed us to the western culture and lifestyle, which is crucial for reporters who devote their life to international communication.

This was my first trip to US. With help from the Parvin Fellowship, I took classes taught by outstanding professors, met some of the best journalists in this country, and traveled to more than 10 cities in five states in the mainland United States.

I have never learned so many new and fascinating things in such a short time. By taking classes, writing academic papers, presenting projects, giving lectures, participating in local public affairs, reading and traveling, I grabbed every opportunity which could make me grow as an intelligent person and confident journalist. Thanks to Mrs. Parvin, Professor Kato and other hard-working staff from the University of Hawaii and the East-West Center, I am one step closer to that goal.

Also, I was warmly welcomed in the Aloha State, and enjoyed the unique Hawaiian culture and natural environment. I paddled, surfed, SCUBA dived and sky dived for the first time in my life. The nine months was a productive and delightful experience, which deeply influenced my career and my life.