Being part of the SYB “classic repertoire”, the Bund excursion has always been highly anticipated by the newcomers. As someone who has just joined the team, I was fortunate enough to be a part of this year’s excursion.
On 2nd of September, 32 of us from all corners of China, youngsters shouldering dreams to become baking masters, started from East Nanjing Road heading towards the Bund. Face-to-face with the wonder that is the Huang Pu River, the students’ exhaustion and anxiety from the past week in Shanghai disappeared entirely, replaced by a bloom of youthful liveliness. If you were traveling with them like myself, you would have been astounded by the sense of adventure, curiosity, and teamwork displayed by these young people hailing from the poor rural areas of China, and probably deeply moved by their brilliant smiles. On the way, we passed by many famous 5-star hotels in Shanghai, the students’ eyes glittered with anticipation, knowing that these hotels could help them achieve their dreams of becoming a baker one day.
Along the excursion, the students tried some of Shanghai’s delicacies. When asked about the taste, most answered slightly sweet, a little bland, not bad, tasty. However, in the near future, each of their appreciation for this city would no doubt become more colorful, wonderful and memorable.
Throughout the excursion, I wondered if the various scenery (Huang Pu River, World Expo Building, Lu Jia Zui, etc…) appeared the same to me as to them. Perhaps they can see further, take in more, feel more? Indeed, it must be. Within a short week, these young students representing the future full of hope, carrying a youthful atmosphere, have impacted me deeply with their innocence, aspirations, and energy. I wonder if these students, one year from now, having completed their studies and began their path to achieving their dreams, would remember today’s Bund excursion where they were left bewildered and amazed. Would they recall the place where their journey began?
SYB, go go go!
