My Name is Jack: A Foreigner's Experience in China As a foreigner living in China, choosing a Chinese name can be an interesting challenge. After some research, I decided on the name “杰克” (Jié kè), which is the Chinese translation of my English name, Jack. Although my Chinese name may seem simple, it has brought me closer to the culture and people here in China. When I introduce myself to locals using my Chinese name, they are always pleasantly surprised and often feel more comfortable speaking with me. It is as if they can relate to me better with a familiar name. In a culture where names carry significant meaning, I have come to appreciate the power behind my Chinese name. “杰” means excellent or outstanding, while “克” means able to overcome or conquer. The combination of the two syllables creates a strong name that resonates with me personally, as someone striving for excellence in both my personal and professional life. Having a Chinese name has also helped me connect with the language and history of China. When I learned the meaning behind the characters that make up my name, I became fascinated with Chinese calligraphy and its ability to express meaning through art. Overall, choosing a Chinese name has been a rewarding experience. It has allowed me to deepen my understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture and has provided a bridge for communication with locals. My name may be simple, but it carries a deep significance that is unique to my experience living in China.