On the occasion of China’s 73rd National Day, Guo Jie, a recent graduate from Columbia University, shared her heartfelt wishes for her home country. As a Chinese student studying abroad, Guo expressed a deep longing for the familial warmth and traditions that accompany Chinese holidays.
“During the holidays, I especially miss the gatherings with my family,” Guo said. Hailing from Henan Province, one of the things she yearns for the most is the comforting taste of her hometown’s spicy soup, known as Hulatang. This traditional dish, rich in flavor and history, embodies for her the essence of home.
Guo’s sentiments reflect those of many overseas Chinese students who, while pursuing education and opportunities abroad, maintain strong connections to their cultural roots. The spicy soup is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of heritage and familial bonds that transcend distance.
As China celebrates its National Day, students like Guo Jie remind us of the enduring ties that bind individuals to their homeland, no matter where they are in the world. Their stories highlight the blend of personal ambition and heartfelt nostalgia that characterizes the overseas experience for many young Chinese today.
