Studying abroad is becoming more and more popular in China, especially in Shenzhen. A classmate will often disappear and later the teacher will announce that he or she had gone abroad. I was curious about studying abroad but had never thought of it until the chance came to me.

　　I attended an exchange student program, in which students went to spend a year abroad and then come back.

　　Although living in a developed country seemed attractive, my indecision still kept me thinking: Maybe going abroad wasn’t suitable for me. Time passed quickly, the day to get a visa was coming.

　　I arrived at the consulate at two o’clock that day along with other students taking part in the program. After having been kept waiting in the sun for two hours, we were allowed to enter the visa office. The moment I stepped into the hall, I felt coldness stealing around my body. Not only the temperature made me shake but also the atmosphere.

　　People waiting in a queue were as expressionless as statues. Few of them glanced at us when we came in. The only sound was the voice coming from the visa officer, which, as cold as the temperature, echoed slightly in the hall: “What’s your name? Why do you go to the U.S.?”

　　The applicant answered softly with a nervous smile, but the officer continued his question without looking up.

　　I couldn’t help but feel that we were at a court seeking to arouse the pity of the judge. My self-esteem took a beating, and I started to get angry. I didn’t care if I didn’t get a visa but I didn’t want to be shamed over a piece of paper.

　　A decision was made.

　　After rejecting another student, the visa officer said without looking up: “Next one!”I went forward, saying: “Good afternoon.” He raised his eyes in surprise and I smiled.

　　“What is the purpose of your trip?” This time, he looked up.

　　“Student exchange.” My reply was almost as loud as his.

　　“Why do you choose the U.S.?”

　　“Because I want to see how Americans live and to taste the turkey on Thanksgiving Day.” His eyes seemed to open a little wider, and he smiled.

　　From then on, he treated me as an equal.

　　His last question was: “How do we know that you’ll come bak from America?”

　　I told him about the plans I had for my life. “I think it is not important for me to go to the U.S.,” I concluded.

　　At last I said, “So I can tell you that I was angry about your cold attitude towards us just now. You made me feel like you were looking down on us. In fact, both of us know we are equal. I’m sorry for wasting your time. Thanks for listening.” I smiled again, walking away.

　　“Miss, you forgot your passport.” He got up, handing me the passport, as well as a piece of yellow paper. “Have fun in America.” He smiled.