As a student with considerable linguistic experience and a passion for history, I firmly believe that the non-degree Chinese programme offered at Xi'An Jiaotong University will challenge me and push me outside of my comfort zone - something I am willing and eager to do. Xi'An will also be a perfect place to study Chinese history - a subject I have studied extensively in high school, and one I wish to pursue this year, as well. Furthermore, with the large and close-knit international community, I think I will be able to contribute more to the university as a whole. Lastly, as I am quite academically-oriented (having received 41 points for the International Baccalaureate upon finishing high school), I will be able to contribute to the university's impeccable record and impressive academic standards - something I aim to achieve and maintain throughout the year.