On leaving China...

Teaching English in China is an experience I will never forget, and I will always appreciate the opportunity given to me by Gallop International English School. No matter what factor leads to a decision to teach in China I think most can agree that it will be nothing like what you have done before in your life. The Chinese Culture is vast and changing; to live in a city where old customs are met daily with modern advances is a true treasure. One of my favorite things about being in Xi’an is the history and ancient connections. Taking a taxi out for dinner you are almost guaranteed to pass a structure that out dates those of most developed countries around the world.

One thing to always remember when coming to China and especially Xian is that it is indeed still a developing nation. There will be large differences between what you thought you were coming to and what it actually turns out to be, even if you have studied the language and culture. But even though those differences are sometimes hard to deal with it is something that will make you experience abroad that much more valuable.

Teaching is to date my favorite job I have ever held. Most of the students are eager to learn and understand certain levels of discipline. Education is at the forefront of this nation and so it is a job that is highly respected. Being accepted into the community as a teacher has been an honor and a pleasure. However, there are times where the job will be overwhelming, stressful and tiring. The demanding hours and energy that goes into preparation and delivery of a class can be trying, especially for an individual who is experiencing any form of culture shock, be it mild or severe. Like any job the good comes with the bad but for me the good by far outnumbered the bad.

I will think back often on the time that I spent in China. The friends that I made are different than any I have had in the past, and have uniquely opened my eyes. The children have become my little friends and their smiles always brought laughter to my lips and at times tears to my eyes. My ability to break through a barrier and master basics of such a complex language is something that has given me a sense of accomplishment that will be hard to beat in my jobs to come. For those of you to follow, be patient, be forgiving, be kind, travel and most of all enjoy the experience that you are bound to have in this community and in this country. Good Luck!