One of my classes here in Harbin focuses on Chinese national security strategies and diplomacy. I have read article after article written by Chinese scholars who have criticized the way the United States has conducted international affairs in the 21st century. At first I was defensive. The words, although not directly addressing me, hit a soft spot. I argued, “No, there is no way that we would actively pursue hegemony at the expense of other countries.” But when I take a step back I realise how other countries must perceive our actions. I felt cheated that people perceived America and Americans by the way George W. Bush and his administration conducted themselves in Washington and abroad. It is hard to convince people otherwise that not all of us are like (or even like) Bush given all they see and hear in the news, on television, and even in scholarly articles. But, today, I couldn’t be prouder to be an American citizen. I will have a President who represents what I stand for. I am ready for change, as the past eight years of my life–my entire youth–have been tainted by the shadow of an inept leader and a conniving administration.