A carnival of unity

Returning to a vibrant celebration of cultures, a former US student reflects on the power of cultural exchange and the unity found in diversity.

Returning to Beijing Language and Culture University for the 20th World Culture Carnival on April 26 felt like coming home.

From 2016 to 2022, BLCU was not just the place where I studied — first earning my bachelor's degree in Chinese language, then my master's degree in international politics — it was where I grew, struggled, and found my place in a larger global story.

During my student years, the World Culture Carnival was always a highlight. From 2016 to 2019, I led the booth for the United States. Every conversation I had with visitors, every laugh shared across cultural divides, felt like a small but important contribution to a greater understanding between people.