"110th Year of Soochow U; The World Expo, and Cowboys!" - Carrie Tucker

The first week was very exciting with the Grand Dedication of the 110th year of Soochow University. They treated us like royalty with a special dinner with the President following the opportunity to meet and talk with him as a group. Everyone enjoyed the special treatment! The ceremony was a spectacular presentation with fireworks and fanfare. All of our dinners were hosted by Deans and/or attended by faculty. One of the highlights was the banquet after the Dedication ceremony. The President and all of the Deans that work with Furman came to toast our table, as well as many other tables.

The Tuckers with their Host Family in Suzhou

Who's the real cowboy here?

Our trips to the Silk Factory and Administrator's Gardens in Suzhou were very informative and special. The Suzhou Museum gave us the reality of how old China truly is.

We left for Shanghai on Wednesday morning. Richard, Martha, and I went to the World Expo. It was amazing to see the architectural design of all the buildings. We walked the entire EXPO, but only had time to see a few interiors due to the two hour wait. We did visit the USA building. It was not quite what we expected. It was great to have the chance to see it, especially with Martha, who guided us through all the obstacles.

We loved the trip and will definitely be going back!