I ended up absolutely loving the language, and I knew I wanted to eventually become fluent in it. Later on, I got to go on a study abroad trip to Beijing as a court reporter for the 2011 China Open tennis tournament. Everyday and everything in Beijing was an adventure. We went to the Great Wall on October 1st, China’s national holiday, (a day I can’t recommend because of the enormous crowds), ate real Peking roast duck (something everyone should experience at least one in their lives), and used every minute of our free time to explore, shop, and see new sights. Being able to communicate at least a little with everyone from our college-aged Chinese co-workers, who spoke exceptional English, to taxi drivers and Chinese tourists, who mostly spoke no English, was really an amazing experience.
Although I won’t be going to China again for another year, I know the U.S. based Z-visa process inside out and would love to help you with any of your questions or concerns during the process. I’m also an experienced English teacher, so I’m definitely full of tips for first-time teachers. It is a little nerve-racking at first, but once you get used to it, teaching doesn’t even feel like a job. It feels like a fun way to start your day with a bunch of people who look up to you. (Seriously, we get paid to do this.) There’s no need to speak Mandarin to apply or be a part of the program, but I can also answer questions or provide insight on what it’s like to learn Chinese. You might just fall in love with language like me!
Contact Melissa at: melissa@teach-english-in-china.co.uk