Meeting Sunrise Student for the First Time

Pairing Ceremonies have always been my favorite part of being involved with Shanghai Sunrise.  It is so rewarding to experience the students meeting the people who will help change their lives through an educational sponsorship.

I don't know who is more nervous, the sponsors or the students. 

Students come to the Hilton Hotel, a vastly different environment from where they were just an hour before, all wide-eyed and shy.  The hotel is the most grand place they have ever been.  However, kids being kids, they see games, cakes and beverages and warm up right away to their surroundings.

Sponsors come to the Hilton Hotel- their world- looking wide-eyed and shy, too.  They point hesitantly to the room where they will meet their Sunrise student for the first time, not knowing what to do.  Sponsors often ask, "What do I do?  What should I talk about with my sponsored Sunrise student?"  

I always respond with a simple phrase, "Play a game, eat some cake- conversation will come naturally.  Your Sunrise student will let you know what to do.  Follow their lead."

Written By: Lori Burke, Sunrise volunteer