“My name is Jing Yi Tian,”
…but you can call me Joy!”
Pronounced “CHEENG-E-TE-IN,” I recently met Joy through Auburn University’s International Buddy Program. Upon completion of both an application and interview, this program essentially matches international students with American students to ensure a smooth transition into student life at Auburn by uniting two complete strangers in forming a culturally diverse friendship.
Today, as I sit across from Joy for lunch at none other than Panda Express, I find myself leaning in—intrigued—by both her perspective of America and her upbringing, which is so culturally unique from my own.
Where are you from?
Beijing, China.
WOW. America, specifically here in Auburn, Alabama, in what we consider the “South” must be completely new for you! Why did you choose to come to America?
I want to pursue a higher degree. America is the most popular country for students to achieve their degree. I think America has [the] best education resources. I want to challenge myself to live in another country… even if it is a strange country!
Strange?!
Maybe not strange, but very different! (Laughs)
What are some things that Americans do differently than you are accustomed to doing in Beijing?
Hmm. Let me think. Ah! Girls. The girls are very shy in Beijing. Smiling, too. Americans smile a lot more, and the Coke is much different here– Sweeter!
Meeting Joy and her roommates for a late dinner turned out to be momentous… this was their first time EVER to eat burgers with fries!
What is special about America?
“[It is] Very free here…for people to find their dream and find their goals in America. No limits.”
How long will you be living in Auburn, and what do you think about it so far?
I have only been in Auburn for two months. I will live in Auburn for two more years before returning to Beijing with a master’s degree in Public Administration. Beijing is a city much like New York. Auburn is peaceful and patient; quiet and comfortable. My classmates are very friendly… but I think that is cultural to Auburn itself!
What are your classes like?
I am in many English and Language skill classes where I am learning how to write a perfect paper, present a presentation, speak, and spell.
What is most challenging about your studies?
Speaking is the most difficult. I have a lot of ideas and thoughts, but it is hard to express in English. It will take a long time to become a native speaker!
Joy, there are going to be many people reading this article about you! Is there anything else you want to let your new American friends know?
(Gasps) I’m going to be a superstar! Yay! Oh, well… I do enjoy taking pictures. Photography. And my favorite sport is basketball – The Los Angeles Lakers! I also like Taylor Swift, and bands. Yes, in America, you have “street bands” which are very good. And pizza. Pizza is my favorite food!
When asking Joy why she chose “Joy” to be her American name, her response was priceless:
“Because I think I am a lucky girl! I live in a happy family and with many nice friends here in Auburn! I like smiling, and I live by the principle to enjoy life.”
After traveling 7,281 miles to Auburn University, Jing Yi Tian has truly brought “Joy” to the Plains!