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From the first seconds after landing, this trip has been unusual to say the least. Before being allowed off the plane every passanger was tested for sympoms of swine flu. One woman was recorded to have a high temperature but this was easily attributed to the large hat she was wearing. Upon taking it off, her temperature went back to normal. Though we were relieved to get off the plane safely, for the next week we could not help but worry that we might get called back for another health inspection. This is because of the Chinese government’s policy which states that if any person on the flight gets sick within a week of landing, everyone within three rows of that person must be suspected of having an illness. The same policy also required us to stay at the Beijing Language and Culture University and to refrain from using public transportation for the week. Despite these restrictions, we were still able to make day trips around Beijing. We visited Beijing University and Qing Hua University, but maybe most interesting was walking to these places. Looking at the people and shops gave me a more genuine feel for the city. Going to the Great Wall was also a fantastic experience. The size of and history behind the wall made the trip like no other. Monday was our first day at the Yucai School. The beauty and serenity of the school make learning there a joy. I am slowly adjusting the the food and other aspects of chinese culture and look forward to meeting my host family on Friday.