While fireworks lit up skies across China for its 73rd National Day, Guo Jie – a recent Columbia University grad from Henan Province – celebrated from afar with a steaming bowl of memories. 🌆✨
\"One sip of hulatang (spicy soup) takes me back to family dinners,\" says Guo, describing the peppery broth loaded with noodles, meat, and herbs that’s iconic in her hometown. 🥘 \"It’s not just food – it’s comfort, laughter, and everything I miss about home.\"
Like many overseas students, Guo finds holidays amplify her longing for cultural rituals: \"We’d gather to watch the National Day gala, hanging red lanterns… Now I video-call my parents while cooking hulatang. It keeps me connected.\" 📱❤️
Her story mirrors the bittersweet reality of studying abroad – embracing global opportunities while holding onto roots. As Guo puts it: \"Every bite is a reminder of who I am and where I’m from.\"
