Another collection of random observations I jotted down during my weeks in China:
• When Andy and I rode our bikes through the local university in Shijiazhuang, I noticed several students walking around outside in towels – despite the painfully cold winter winds. When I inquired as to the reason, he explained to me the horrific living conditions experienced by the vast majority of Chinese college students. The dorm rooms, often filthy and unmaintained, can house upwards of 8 students each. No showers are provided, so students must walk across campus to use the pay-per-use communal showers. In addition, the power cuts off at 10pm – curfew time – when the students are locked in the buildings by bikelocks placed on all the doors. If you accidentally make it back later than this, you aren’t getting in. And in an emergency – including fire – the only way out is for the guard to unlock the doors. Otherwise, too bad – you’re stuck. Absolutely insane. Continue reading »
