While the freshman class is excited for their first Christmas at Padua, the Chinese foreign exchange students are even more excited for their first Christmas in the United States. From decorations to traditions to infamous Christmas movies, they are experiencing everything about Christmas in America.

    Joanna Liang said that she expected to see a lot of pretty lights and decorations. Sam Yu said she expected “Christmas Eve, holiday, and gifts”. This is not an entirely new experience to either of these two girls. Sam explained, “In China we do not have break during Christmas, but I think everybody knows about it. But for us, Christmas doesn’t have that significance because lots of us don’t have the religion; we don’t have the traditions and holiday.”

    While Joanna, Sam, and the other exchange students have knowledge and minor ties with Christmas, they are especially excited for Christmas Eve. “Christmas is not new to me but Christmas Eve is,” said Sam. “I’m most excited for Christmas Eve and Christmas day, because I heard there’s going to be a lot of food,” Joanna agreed with Sam.

    Since China is not dominantly Christian, neither of the girls have really celebrated any Christmas traditions before now. “We decorated our tree together and participated in the father/daughter NYC trip,” Joanna said. “I was able to see all the beautiful Christmas lights in the big city.”

    Of course, each have had their fair share of Christmas movie experiences. “I watch lots of movies, and one of my favorites is Home Alone.” Joanna had similar views in saying her favorites had to be Elf and Home Alone 2.

    We all hope all of the exchange students have the best first real Christmas they could ever have.