Ever since my study abroad at HKUST for my 3rd year of bachelors, I have been fascinated by Chinese culture and language, and have done whatever I can to improve, from participating in classes and language buddy programs, both at HKUST and the University of Zurich language center after my return, to teaching, traveling and studying in China in Summer 2015 after my exchange. I knew as soon as I left Hong Kong that I would be back for more at some point, and now, with the possibility of simply deferring starting my master's by a semester before starting, the time is ripe. I would like to attend the Beijing Foreign Studies University because of its very strong history of excellence in teaching Chinese language and literature, its diverse and talented student body, and its excellent location near the center of Beijing, allowing one to take advantage of the many opportunities the city has to offer.