Evan Claar
Evan Claar (he/him) - Stanford in Beijing
Major: Engineering (BS)
College year while abroad: Spring 2025-26
About the photo: Broken Bridge Friendship Bridge, Dandong.
Contact
Email: eclaar05@stanford.edu or click here to schedule an appointment.
Q&As
Why did you choose to study in Beijing?
I chose to study in Beijing to experience a different way of life. During my time at Stanford, I was introduced to aspects of Chinese language, philosophy, and culture that piqued my interest in visiting China and learning more. Furthermore, I wanted to experience a way of life often described as the opposite of the USA. Having the opportunity to compare US media feeds and beliefs of China to the reality and hearing the viewpoints of the locals was also a selling point for visiting Beijing.
How did studying away support your academic growth?
Studying abroad allowed me to take a break from my major-required classes and explore new realms. It allowed me to see how my major of study is being applied in another country and the international relationships required and developed in my field of study. It also allowed me to further my language development and see how the education system works in China.
What did you learn about yourself during your study away experience, especially through any challenges or major cultural adjustments?
While abroad, I learned how resilient you have to be and how to use your resources to make it with little comprehension of the language and understanding of the culture. Receiving help from the SCPKU staff and PKU students was helpful, and it was great to be able to make friends with those who grew up in a different country. Learning how to navigate the multitude of apps was also a challenge that required help, as everything you do requires you to use your phone.
Briefly describe a typical day and your favorite part of daily life in your program location.
A typical day started with me waking up and walking to SCPKU, although most people biked. I would then go to class or work on my assignments. A group of students, both Stanford and PKU, would grab lunch together at the dining hall, which has phenomenal food, before heading back to class or to work. We would then grab dinner together and relax in the evening by either going into the city, watching a movie, or playing games at SCPKU before heading to bed.
If applicable, how did participating in an internship, volunteership or experiential-based project help you grow professionally? What specific skills did you gain?
The Beijing program did not have an internship experience this year. However, classes will require you to conduct research about Chinese events and companies. You get the opportunity to use both English and Chinese texts, but also get to talk to locals about their history and experiences. Gaining the experience to conduct or help with interviews across different languages allows you to gain a better understanding of how the other culture works.
What was the most essential item you took with you on the program?
The most essential item is your phone and an approved power bank to charge it. Everything in China requires the use of your phone, and if it's dead, you literally cannot do anything. I also recommend bringing some warm clothes, as it is still cold the first few weeks, and some places you may travel to are going to be much colder than Beijing.
What advice would you give students who are considering studying away?
Do It! Studying abroad is a great opportunity that allows you to experience living in a different country with a new way of life while being supported by Stanford, so you aren't entirely on your own. Talk to those who have been and done it, such as your student ambassadors, and don't let any fears or unknowns scare you away.