Hello everyone, my name is Shanshan Zhang. I am currently a third-year student majoring in psychology, and I am currently in my third year of university. However, this year I have decided to transfer to the Department of Visual Arts. Originally from China, I spent the first twelve years of my life in Shanghai, then moved with my family to Vancouver in Canada a few years later. When I was a kid, I did not like to read or write, I used to spend all my time playing games and the computer.  Then as I got older, I think it was a way to waste your time, and I started to read books and I was inspired by one of the YouTubers that I had followed recently. It is very interesting to me to see that she always recommends some books in her videos that I think are very interesting. One of the things that I hope to accomplish with this course is to make reading a habit. As well as reading, I am also interested in history. During my previous semesters, I have taken several history courses. I have taken ancient histories in particular. Since I have taken Japanese in my past semesters, it is very helpful to be able to better understand Japanese history.

A fun fact about me is that I have learned many different types of instruments, and the majority of them are Chinese traditional instruments. There is one that is called “Pipa” which can be understood as a Chinese guitar. The instrument looks like a guitar, but it is played in a totally different way than a guitar. It took me about a year to learn how to play this instrument. I have also learned how to play guitar, but I just started playing it last summer. One of the instruments is called the “Guzheng”, and you can understand that it is an ancient Chinese piano. The instrument does not look like a piano at all, but it is used much like a piano. In addition, I have been learning this instrument for about seven years now. As well as playing these instruments, I also do recording music.

Besides, I am also interested in snowboarding, and I used to dance every week (when there was no Covid), but I don’t anymore. From my personal perspective, sports is one of the best ways to relax my mind and body.