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Sam Leinen The Daily Barometer " SRC="http://media.collegepublisher.com/media/paper854/thumbs/t_41950151d1cd9-66-1.jpg" target=new> Christina Zhong and Michelle Bennett created "Kung Pao Fries," a radio show that recently received the "Best Regularly Scheduled Program" from Collegiate Broadcasters Inc. Sam Leinen The Daily Barometer [Click to enlarge]

What do you think of when you think about China? Kung fu? Fried rice? Personally, I think about those adorable, fashion-forward Asian girls who manage to pull off neon tights with leg warmers and old military blazers. These stereotypes aside, what do we really know about the Far East? And for that matter, what do they think of us here in America?

Xiaomeng Zhong (or as we know her in the states, Christina Zhong) and partner Michelle Bennett created a successful radio show on KBVR that answered these questions and more, "Kung Pao Fries." The show was originally meant to be broadcast online. A friend of Christina's from Beijing wanted to do an online radio show that discussed the differences between Chinese and American culture in a fun and youth-targeted manner. The online version of "Kung Pao Fries" was only broadcast once; Christina's friend moved to Australia. Luckily, Christina, who was KBVR TV station manager at the time, teamed up with Michelle Bennett, then-KBVR radio manager, and began to broadcast their show on KBVR.

"Kung Pao Fries" was broken down into three segments: "Random Topic of the day," "Culture to Go" and "Slang of the Day." During "Random Topic of the Day," Christina and Michelle would discuss a topic such as tattooing or dating. Michelle would discuss the American viewpoint and Christina would discuss the Chinese viewpoint. During "Slang of the Day," they would choose an American slang phrase such as "what's up," explain it and then introduce its Chinese counterpart.

Considering how far away China is, it seems there would be many differences between our cultures, but it turns out we are more alike than we think.

"I am amazed at the similarities in our cultures," Christina said. "If you look at our pop stars and China's pop stars, they are almost identical. People do the same things on the weekends. We are not so different after all."

Despite the many similarities, there are some vast differences between our cultures, as well.

"American media is very sexualized," Christina said. "Chinese media is much more reserved. The dating is very different. People in America are more up front with their feelings, while Chinese tend to be more aloof."

Although the show is pre-recorded, they do get plenty of positive feedback off the air.

"I'm an RA in West International Hall," Christina said. "The international residents listen to our show and they think it's funny. I like that they can learn from the program while enjoying it."

Last Friday it was announced that "Kung Pao Fries" had won a national award. The Collegiate Broadcasters Inc. gave Michelle and Christina the radio award for "Best Regularly Scheduled Program." "We were very excited, especially since we didn't expect anything to come from entering the competition," Christina said. They will be receiving an engraved plaque from CBI.

Unfortunately, Michelle is no longer a student here at OSU and "Kung Pao Fries" has been retired, but Christina is still working hard to pursue a career in media.

"I'm hoping for a career involved with my background and the media," Christina said. "I have learned so much from student media here and I am moved by how much the school cares about its students. I like bringing pride to the program."

We're proud of you, too, Christina.

Catch the show, which is being re-broadcast Tuesday, Nov. 16. at 9 p.m. on KBVR FM.

Nathalie Weinstein, Diversions writer
diversions@dailybarometer.com, 737-6377

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