The is an interview with the 30-year-old female who moved to Shanghai 12 years ago.  She moved to Shanghai primarily for educational opportunities that were not available in her hometown. After graduation, she developed her career in Shanghai. Although this interviewee has lived in Shanghai for 12 years, she is still dealing with the challenge of making connections with the city.

Motivation: Shanghai offered specialized programs in her field of study and provided her with the chance to network with professionals and academics, which was instrumental in launching her career.

Sense of Connection to Shanghai: Despite living in Shanghai for 12 years, she feels a limited connection to the city. The vast size and fast pace of Shanghai contribute to a sense of disconnection, making her feel like a small part of a much larger, impersonal system. Cultural differences and the language barrier further exacerbate this feeling, making it difficult for her to fully embrace and feel at home in the city.

Challenges in Establishing Social Connections: Forming social connections in Shanghai has been challenging due to the city’s fast-paced environment, where people are often focused on their careers, leaving little time for building meaningful relationships. The cultural differences and social norms also create barriers to forming deep connections with locals.

Evolving Approach to Relationships: Over time, she has shifted her approach to forming relationships in Shanghai. Initially focused on building a large network quickly, she realized that many of these connections were superficial. Now, she prioritizes deeper, more meaningful connections with a smaller group of people who share her values and interests.

Role of Comfort Food: Comfort food plays a significant role in helping her manage stress and emotional challenges in Shanghai. Eating dishes from her hometown provides a sense of familiarity and comfort, helping her feel more grounded when she feels overwhelmed or lonely. She often recreates a traditional dish from her hometown, sourcing ingredients from specialty stores or having them sent by family. Sharing these comfort foods with friends in Shanghai has also become a way for her to connect with others and share her culture.

Importance of Food for Belonging: Food is crucial for her sense of belonging in Shanghai. It serves as a tangible connection to her culture and memories of home, helping her feel more grounded in a city that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Sharing meals, whether from her hometown or local Shanghai specialties, helps her build connections and create a sense of community. Incorporating local dishes like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and shengjianbao (pan-fried dumplings) into her diet has helped her embrace the local culture and feel more integrated into life in Shanghai.

Interview transcript & consent form: