This summer vacation, I was fortunate to be granted the opportunity to journey to the University of California, Berkeley, for a three-week study program. This journey not only provided me with a profound understanding of American teaching methods and cultural traditions, but also immersed me in diverse life experiences that enriched my academic and personal growth, offering abundant inspiration and substantial elevation.

Within the confines of UCB, I was enveloped by a robust academic ambiance. As a prestigious public university, UC Berkeley attracts exceptional scholars and students from around the world. I chose to enroll in two courses: American Humor Culture and Arts and Design. In these classrooms, I encountered passionate and knowledgeable professors who brought to life the history and evolution of American humor culture in vivid and engaging ways. Through an in-depth exploration of various forms and expressions of American humor, I began to comprehend how humor reflectedsocietal phenomena, cultural concepts, and current political affairs. The campus was also a melting pot of individuals from across the globe, forming a place of cultural collisions and exchanges. Engaging with fellow students from different countries and backgrounds not only deepened my understanding of how cultural differences influence the interpretation and expression of humor, but also expanded my awareness of global culturesandbroadenedmy perspective. This diversity not only enriched my thinking but also allowed me to experience and appreciate diverse cultures more openly, providing me with multiple angles to observe the world.

Beyond classroom learning, I had the privilege of visiting the Berkeley Art Museum. Berkeley has always been synonymous with artistic innovation and avant-garde ideas, and this exhibition allowed me to glimpse the unique allure of contemporary American art. Within the exhibit, I beheld works from various genres and styles – from abstract paintings to sculptures, from photography to installation art – each piece manifested the artist's profound contemplation of society, life, and emotions. These works not only inspired my comprehension of art but also prompted me to reevaluate the connection between art and the zeitgeist. During my free time, I participated in rowing, lying on a tandem kayak while admiring Marina Beach. The colorful houses of the serene town, accompanied by the sunset and waves, seemed to alleviate all the pressures of life. We even climbed to the summit of Berkeley's Big C, experiencing the swing on the hillside and ascending the bell tower to listen to the hourly chimes.

Throughout this educational journey, I deeply experienced Berkeley's spirit of openness and inclusivity. Whether in classroom discussions or exchanges with professors and peers, the emphasis on respecting diverse viewpoints and thoughts was unmistakable. This open environment not only granted me the freedom to express my opinions but also encouraged me to listen to and understand the perspectives of others. For someone striving for personal growth and academic advancement, this experience is undoubtedly invaluable. While learning, I also had the chance to exploreUCB and its surroundings. The campus was adorned with lush green lawns, diverse architectural styles, and a rich historical aura. The town of Berkeley itself brimmed with fashion, art, and vitality. Here, I absorbed the distinctive lifestyle and cultural atmosphere of the American West Coast, adding countless unforgettable experiences to my learning journey. Furthermore, I ventured to San Francisco, where landmarks like the Ferry Building, Chinatown, and the Golden Gate Bridge left a deep impression on me. The world's largest interactive Exploratorium, centered around sound, color, light, electricity, and magnetism, offered overwhelming sensory experiences and captivating visual stimuli. We also visited Stanford University, experiencing the differences between public and private institutions; in Yosemite Valley, a U.S. national park, I savored America's leisure culture and tourism concepts, marveling at the wonders of nature and the Earth's geological forces.

This experience at the University of California, Berkeley, granted me direct exposure to an English-speaking environment and American culture, greatly enhancing my interest in English learning. Improved spoken English is particularly crucial in an international setting, leading me to reflect profoundly on my previous approaches to language learning and establishing a solid foundation for my future language acquisition and application. During the process of learning and communication, the professors' encouragement and insightful guidance bolstered my confidence. Furthermore, I witnessed the United States' commendable attention to humanity and infrastructure. On American buses, there were specialized slides and seats for individuals with disabilities, equipped with robust safety measures and systems. In the dormitories, open common spaces were provided for discussions, learning, and gatherings – spaces not solely devoted to studying, fostering a relaxed learning atmosphere and an open mindset, which greatly aided my study and interaction experience in Berkeley.

All in all, this three-week learning journey at the University of California, Berkeley, has proven incredibly rewarding. I not only delved deeply into the rich nuances of American humor culture within the classroom but also drew inspiration from artistic and cultural exchanges. Berkeley's spirit of openness, diversity, and inclusivity has profoundly influenced me, leaving me full of anticipation and motivation for my future endeavors. UC Berkeley's rigorous academic approach and open, flexible, and adaptive teaching methods are worth emulating. This splendid experience will remain a cherished memory in my life, continuing to shape my pursuit and exploration of academic growth and self-improvement. Go bears!