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Arriving at the dorm is a surreal experience. First things first we need to figure out who's in room with who. Then comes lunch with surprise, a sightseeing tour, a remarkable purchase, group dinner, Banana club, and bed time.

Taking off and flying to China marks the separation between what used to be just an idea, and reality. It is the time for goodbyes, hugs, butterflies in stomachs and the beginning of a new adventure.

The holidays before taking off for China are among the most memorable. Two weeks spent roaming around California together with lifetime friends.

How do 30 Italian students get ready for China and prepare for their departure? What are the challenges and the surprises they face? Will an "aperitivo" be enough to put them at ease?

First episode in a series exploring how one can go from having no intention of living abroad to being catapulted into spending a year, and then a little longer, on the other side of the earth.