Our newest teaching team	Guizhou lunch	Pauline, Dan, Josh and Jennifer taking it all in on the first day

Orientation is always an exciting time for new teachers: the anticipation of learning more about living in Beijing, acquiring new techniques for teaching Chinese students, and the fascination of understanding a new culture. During the first day teachers have a chance to hear more about the strategy for daily life in this bustling city – everything from how to buy a phone card to grocery shopping, getting around on buses and taxis and finding the best place for steamed dumplings. Lunch on the first day with the Director of Studies is a time to experience Chinese cuisine, usually a particular regional cuisine. One of our favorites is a genuine Guizhou meal – and by the end of the meal we all know how to say “delicious” in Chinese– Hao Chi!

By Pauline Tung (Canada) – Teacher/ May 2005 Intake

Pauline and Jennifer smiling from their own private rickshaw	The charming and historical alleys of Beijing

On our last excursion which was held on the morning of Friday, July 15, 2005, we went on a guided Hutong area tour. A Hutong is a typical ancient city alley in Beijing. Most of the Hutongs were built hundreds of years ago. We were taken on rickshaws and we even visited the house of a local family, which was really fun and very interesting.

After the Hutong area tour, we headed to the Bell tower where we attended a tea ceremony and we were able to smell, taste and learn about different kinds of Chinese tea. Finally, after an already packed morning of activities, we climbed up the Drum Tower and perused through some Chinese Art and some of the teachers even had a go at the giant drums!

Everyone had a great morning and we all agreed that this was one of the best outings we had been to. The organized excursions give us a chance to experience some things that could sometimes be difficult to organize on our own. I look forward to the next outing!

CJ in his classroom – and in his element	Concentrating in calligraphy class

Name: CJ Winter
Teacher/ February 2005 Intake
Country of Residence: Australia
Profession: Visual Arts Teacher
Hobbies: Sleight of Hand Magic, Wushu and “experimental” cooking.

1. Was this your first time in China?
Yes… not to mention the second time out of the country in my adult life.

2. Why did you decide to teach English to Chinese in Beijing?
For many reasons, really. I think the foremost reason is my deep love and respect for Chinese culture. I think this has been a once-in-a -lifetime experience, and I am so happy to be a part of a beautiful and rapidly-expanding culture.

3. How do you find your teaching experience in Beijing?
Fantastic! I really enjoy teaching my students and working with a fantastic team here in Beijing! Also, every day feels like a learning experience… it’s amazing what can be gained spending time immersed in such a rich cultural environment. Sometimes it seems like I’m learning as much from my students as they seem to be from me.

4. How did you like Beijing?
Beijing really is a remarkable city – progress and industry as far as the eye can see! The people are genuinely warm, friendly and accommodating… especially to foreigners. I really feel at home in this city.

5. What did you find most interesting about your time in China?
I think the most interesting thing about China is the spanning contrasts inherent in everyday life. Being able to walk from an opulent downtown shopping centre into a small Hutong lane… seeing the blend of ancient and modern culture coming together before your eyes. All of this gives the real impression of a nation “on the move”.

6. How has your experience in China changed you?
Every day that passes I think I fall further in love with China and its people.

7. What is the thing you like the best about Beijing/ China?
The people!

8. Will you come to China again?
To be honest, I never want to leave.

9. What advice or tips would you give to other teachers who plan to come and teach in China?
1) Remember, you’re in another country. Yes, the food is different and no, people won’t always understand you.
2) Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself from time to time. You’ll find that your students will appreciate a glimpse of humanity once in a while… and it’s also good for you!
3) Always make sure your whiteboard markers work before starting the class.
4) Be flexible – and don’t worry about deviating from the course from time to time.
5) Use the internet for helpful teaching ideas.
6) There are some things that you won’t be able to get here… deodorant, decent razors, hair products, blu-tack, CD’s that aren’t Richard Claderman or The Carpenters. Stock up before you leave, or have a friend back home send you what you need. Besides, isn’t it nice to get a “care package” from time to time?