By Danielle Ruiz, Staff Writer

The United States has always been known as a country full of diversity and pop culture. These were two of the many attractions that helped graduate student Bingshu Hou, or Trista (as she is fondly called by her American friends) take the plunge and move thousands of miles from home to New York.  

Born and raised in Shanghai, China, Trista has had a new and exciting experience moving to New York. Although she is far from home, Trista is no stranger to a big city. Shanghai is one of the most developed cities in all of China, and to Trista, the the only distinct differences from New York are style and cleanliness.

 “First, I think New York is more old, looks old, the appearance of the city looks old.” Trista was shocked to see the New York subways noting that in Shanghai, the subways and buildings are newer and better preserved.

Although New York might not be as clean as Shanghai, Trista was excited to finally see all her favorite bands perform. “The live music here is very developed and diverse.” Trista’s taste in music is very American, and living near NYC has given her the opportunity to experience all the live music the city has to offer. Musical performances are far less common in Shanghai.

While New York beats China in music, Trista feels that China has a better cuisine. “American food is bland. Even in other cities the food is the same.” In China, food tends to change depending on the region you are in, or sometimes even by the town. Culture is heavily tied to food, so traveling through China is a food lover’s dream.  Eating the various cuisines town-by-town is a must for Chinese tourists visiting other areas of the country.

Although there is a time difference between New York and China, Trista makes the best of the situation by calling her mother once a week. She has adapted well to New York and misses home the most during Chinese holidays that are not commonly recognized in the U.S. “When I call home I can tell they are happy in that atmosphere.” These moments are what make the change tough, but Trista considers herself a trooper. “I love to take challenges.”

While Trista might miss home occasionally, she loves living in New York and hopes to find a job after graduation and to live in the city. Eventually, she wants to move back to China, but she is putting no limit on her time in the States. The U.S. opens many doors to careers in China and Trista plans on taking full advantage of her American experience.

Trista thinks Shanghai is much more developed than New York, but she has adapted well to America. (Photo Courtesy of Trista Hou)