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

Upon discovering the U.S.-China Student Dialogue, I knew instantly that I had to apply. Effective global governance is built on strong relationships, and this program is designed to nurture new friendships while tackling challenging issues relating to Sino-American politics. My goals as a participant in the program were threefold: first, to counterbalance the one-sided view of the U.S.-China relationship that I have been exposed to in class; second, to form relationships with Chinese students in order to better understand their perspectives and lived experiences; and last, to reflect on what a constructive future between our two countries can look like. Halfway through, my objectives are being met, and I am a grateful participant.

Thus far, my perspective on China has been enriched by firsthand accounts from the other students in my cohort who are genuinely invested in the partnerships our countries can develop. All the students on my team are engaged in the world around them, curious about others’ experiences, and bring their full effort and energy to our discussions. In between our discussions of U.S. President Donald Trump’s China policy, we have gotten to know each other, laughing over little anecdotes of the day through our spotty Zoom connection. The introduction has been lovely, and I am so excited to be meeting my new friends in person soon.

When I applied to this program, I reflected deeply on how the rhetoric I heard about China in my Georgetown classrooms was perpetually one-sided and antagonistic. Three weeks into the Trump presidency, and my classes are a safe haven compared to dominating political views. Many proposed policy adjustments appear counterintuitive to long-term American interests. It is a challenging time to be American; the values of peace and freedom that I have always deeply believed in are facing a reckoning.

I am so grateful to be involved in this program because it is an opportunity to actively engage in diplomatic relationship building. In the face of increasing isolationism on matters of foreign policy, this program is designed to open up opportunities for students to share their experiences. No matter what headline follows after “BREAKING NEWS” in my New York Times alert, I know that my cohort Zoom call is going to focus on mutual interests, and that the students I speak to share a passionate hope in maintaining a stable world order. Additionally, it enables students to explore nuances, disagreements, and share common ground. It reminds us of all that we share–and in times of great division, seeking unity by building community is the best way forward.

My primary takeaway from participating in the U.S.-China Student Dialogue has been a feeling of hope. Each student is deeply invested, maintains an open mind, and speaks from the heart. I feel deeply reassured knowing that the future of Sino-American relations is forged through dialogues like these.

Elizabeth Rauenhorst (SFS '25) is a senior at Georgetown University majoring in International Politics and minoring in Environment and Sustainability