Richard Jiang

Those days in Philadelphia during summer camp are unforgettable! My friend Jay and I heard about this program through our English teacher. We came to Philadelphia to enjoy the local culture and life here, and to improve our English ability. The people I met during that month were really nice and that experience was meaningful and helped me make some important decisions.  Each day, we took classes in school, and had English and History classes. Our English teacher was so kind and always patient and happy to explain everything we wanted to know.  Our History teacher was very humorous and his class was always full of laughter.  In the afternoon, activities would be more interesting and relaxing. Sometimes we would have different classes such as PE, handicraft and art, and film appreciation class, and visited famous scenic spots and world-famous universities in the city.  We visited Benjamin Franklin Avenue, Independence Bell, Independence Hall, Philadelphia Art Museum, and Philadelphia City Hall to learn about history of the declaration of independence. When we were hanging out, Ms. Capaldi and Mr. Bergey always stayed with us. They are still my friend now.

One day, we went to Princeton University and Penn State University. Ms. Capaldi asked Jay and me about our dream school, Jay answered that question without much thought.  But I never thought about that question before, that was the first time I thought I need a plan for my future and a goal to work towards.  After walking around and visiting Princeton University, I couldn’t wait to have my university life in America. I know it’s hard to be a member in Princeton University, but it cannot change my mind to study aboard. 

Every day after school, we would spend the rest of day together with our host family where we play video games, guitar, basketball and watched TV.  This helped improve my English ability.  On weekends, our host family would take us to some local tasty eateries and to their church activities. It gave us a better chance to learn the local culture.  All in all, these experiences were very profound.  If you want to improve your English, have the intention to study aboard or just want to go for a travel during your summer vacation, I recommend Genesis and this program since it gives every student a chance and a great platform to expand your horizon.