Gratitude

When I first arrived at Fei Tian Academy of the Arts, I had nothing but my cellphone and the clothes on my back.

The letter that invited me to audition in New York came very suddenly. At the time, I was at my grandparents’ home, so I didn’t have much with me, but I was thrilled to receive this sudden opportunity, and insisted on catching the next available flight—very early the next morning.

The audition was fairly simple. I had been studying classical Chinese dance at Xian Yun Academy in California for some time, so I met most of the basic requirements. Just one hour later, to my great surprise, I was told that I’d passed the test and had been accepted into Fei Tian Academy of the Arts.

Before going home to pick up the rest of my necessities, I was offered a tour of my soon-to-be dorms. Expecting empty rooms, I was instead shown into a fully-equipped dorm room with a desk, fridge, and bed, complete with pillows, blankets, and bedding. I gulped. “How much do I pay? And who do I pay?” I managed to stutter. The dorm manager smiled kindly. “You don’t need to pay. You are on full scholarship. Everything that you need is all included. You’ll receive some clothes as training wear, too.” Seeing my astounded expression, she laughed. “If you need anything else, just let me know.”

I stood at the door, dumbstruck and in disbelief. That was when I understood why my dad had been diligent in sending my application package and paperwork to this school. Fei Tian gave me a full scholarship, and that full ride included absolutely everything, from living quarters and food to transportation and even clothes. I didn’t need to spend anything on all this and more, and that meant the world to me. Before coming to Fei Tian, my dad spent many sleepless nights worrying about my education and my future. He often told me that tuition was so costly at private or boarding schools, and it would cost even more to obtain room and board. Now that I was enrolled in one of the best arts academies in the world, a heavy burden was lifted off his shoulders, and I’d be able to get the best education I could ever wish for in a prime environment.

Today, as a student in Fei Tian College’s graduate school program, I have come to see how dedicated Fei Tian is in ensuring that every student receives the best education in a safe environment, and I feel so much gratitude for the teachers, staff, and administration for showing each and every person kindness and care. I remember hearing from my friend that she accidentally broke her instrument three times, and Fei Tian paid for repairs every time. As for myself, I’ve received numerous pairs of dance shoes, worn hundreds of costumes and hairpieces, traveled the world on practicum with Shen Yun for many years, and never had to pay a single penny. That’s why whenever my dad brings up the topic of my coming to Fei Tian, I always tell him: “Dad, thank you for sending me to the best school in the world.