When I told People "I'm going to China for a year to study Shaolin Kung fu" most of them asked, how I got this idea. I just responded, "It's going to be my gap year and I thought it could be fun" - which it definitely was.
The people I met here, encouraged me in all kind of ways. Some I looked up to, some pushed me to my limits, some taught me important lessons, others I just fooled around with... Nonetheless, it never felt empty. I'm incredibly happy to have met strangers that I can now consider grateful friends and some even family.

For the training, you can customize it to your own preferences (I focused on Shaolin) after trying everything style. The Masters are incredible teachers, very helpful, patient and never miss a chance to laugh or chat with us either. They also never hesitated to offer their own free time to finish what they were teaching you. This made the training and life here feel warm and comforting.
Besides the physical training there is a chance to attend Mandarin classes, Calligraphy and TCM that provided a deeper understanding of the culture and life,

Not only the incredible masters had a big impact on me, but also all the
hardworking employees. Our translators that took care of so many things like Visa extensions, helped place online orders, giving lessons... The nice ladies that prepared delicious food every day and lit up your mood when they
greeted or smiled at you. Shushu who could fix anything in case something broke down and kept everything in check. As well as Joy, who had an answer to all questions and managed to take care of any issue that was not so easily solved.
The Chinese kids made the school very lively with them around. They liked starting conversations and exchanging cultural, such as social differences and beliefs. That usually resulted in lots of laughing or fun conversations. It was always impressive to see them perform. They were really helpful as well, if we had difficulties with learning something they never hesitated to give us advice, help or directly teach us how to do it.
We went on several trips during my stay. I visited the Shaolin Temple 3 times, took part in competitions, events, Chinese feasts/holidays, weekend trips. Everyone even got invited to one of the Masters Wedding. Each time an amazing experience outside the usual routine.

I can recommend this place to anyone.
Knowing that my stay will be over in a few days makes me very sad. I am incredibly grateful for this amazing experience during the last 14 months. In hindsight, I wouldn't change it for anything else.
I'm especially thankful to Master Wei for putting so much faith and believe in me when I couldn't myself sometimes.