Overseas students: CGTN wants to celebrate Spring Festival with you!

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A software ad six years ago brought many to tears: a young man studying in the US received a message from his mom, knowing she must have studied hard to learn how to operate a computer and master an online chat interface.

We live in a time where distances no longer matter as much. But being away can be unbearable during Spring Festival, when families in China traditionally come together for an annual reunion. Knowing there are people concerned with your wellbeing thousands of miles away, CGTN wants to hear how you feel at this special time of year. Where are you now? How long have you been away from home?

ALL-ROUND CHAMPIONS MILES AWAY FROM HOME

You must have learnt to take care of yourself – from doing your laundry and cleaning, to changing lightbulbs. But cooking skills are particularly important during Spring Festival. Chinese students in your neighborhood may know how to prepare a traditional festive delicacy from their region. What about you? Do you know how to cook a specialty from your hometown?

Some of you may have gone on a trip to reduce the feeling of homesickness. But most overseas students don’t have this option since they are busy handling assignments or preparing for exams. While your family sits together at home to watch the annual Spring Festival Gala, you may just be waking up and, wrapped in a blanket, be waiting for a Facetime call from home.

HOME SWEET HOME

From middle school to post graduate studies, you must have quickly got used to living by yourself. Independent, able to multi-task and to plan your own life, you can probably think of 100 ways to spend your time alone.

But it is never the same as being at home during Spring Festival. Even if your whole family comes to visit you, it is never the same as celebrating at home. You will still wish you were at the other end of the call, part of the noise and bustle.

CGTN editors want to keep you company, to bring the festive atmosphere to you. We hope you’ll be able to enjoy every moment of Spring Festival, and we hope that you’ll be sharing your enjoyable moments with us! Happy Spring Festival!

(Written by Li Yezi; illustrations by Gao Hongmei)