Initiative for U.S.-China Dialogue on Global Issues

In March 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Beijing and Shanghai as part of the U.S.-China Student Dialogue. After months of virtual collaboration with students from Peking University, meeting in person was a whole new experience.

Our first stop was Beijing, where we were hosted at Peking University (PKU). From a student-led campus tour to lunch in the PKU cafeteria, we had a chance to experience the rhythms of university life in China. We finally connected in person with the students we had worked with virtually over the past few months. Our group project, which was focused on climate change and the future of U.S.-China cooperation, came to life in our presentation, where we discussed shared challenges and ways to move forward.

Later we visited the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, where we met with Sarah Beran, deputy chief of mission. It was inspiring to hear from a diplomat engaged in promoting mutual understanding, especially at a time of tension between both countries. We also visited Schwarzman College, where we learned about leadership programs for global-minded changemakers.

Another memorable part of our trip was the Georgetown alumni event. We connected with fellow Hoyas living and working in China. The energy in the room was welcoming, and it felt like home halfway around the world. Outside of our academic activities, the cultural experiences were just as memorable. We toured the National Museum of China and the Forbidden City, each offering insights into China’s vast history.

After wrapping up in Beijing, we boarded a high-speed train to Shanghai, where the tempo of the trip picked up. One standout moment was visiting NIO, an electric vehicle company, where we saw firsthand how innovation and sustainability are shaping China’s future. 

The night tour of the Huangpu River was breathtaking – a perfect mix of modern skyline and historical charm. On our last day in China, we went to the beautiful Yu Garden, a peaceful and reflective space to wrap up an incredibly dynamic week.

This was my first time in China, and I was genuinely surprised by the level of innovation and economic development. From clean, efficient public transport systems to smart and high-tech city infrastructure, the pace of change was inspiring. And I cannot forget to mention the amazing food. From hot pot to dumplings to fresh street snacks, every meal was a new adventure. That firsthand exposure made it clear: real progress starts not in policy rooms, but in personal connections and mutual understanding.

This trip reminded me that dialogue is not always about agreement – it is about listening, exchanging, and building the trust that makes future cooperation possible. As we continue to face global challenges like climate change, I believe these connections are where the change begins.

Ksenia Dubova (G’25) is pursuing a master’s degree in global human development at Georgetown University, with a specialization in climate change and environment.