Describe your most memorable moment.
I don’t have just one, and I could go on forever. First impression: Welcome to China, here come the hazmats on the plane to take your temperature. Grossest moment: Being sneezed on while I was eating ice cream. Most relaxing moment: Awesome foot massages. Most surreal moment: Climbing the Great Wall when Jenny and I went to Beijing.
What was your favorite place and why?I don’t have one… each place was uniquely awesome. If I really could only pick one, I would say Yellow Mountain (Huang Shan). I'd seen the mountains in photos, and they are every bit as beautiful as people say, but the pictures just don't do it justice. I really enjoyed the different weather changes and rock formations. The temperatures were perfect, and a welcome getaway from the humidity and heat of the city. It was very different from the Alps, but very beautiful in a unique way, although I wished they hadn’t installed steps everywhere!
Describe the favorite item that you purchased and why?
I really didn't buy that much because so many things in the US are made in China, so it seemed kind of difficult to find something that felt genuine. I’m excited about the tea I bought and my blue dragon tea set. However, the most meaningful object is a woodcarving of a dragon and phoenix because it represents the “happy couple.” I also really love the dresses that we had custom made for us through Zhang Bei’s friend.
Describe some important differences and similarities in the cultures of China and America.
Similarities
• High expectations for school work
• Summer school / programs
• Historic places are valued
• Parents are often involved in education of child
• Large food portions
• Enjoy fast food
• Students are easily distracted and get off task, though often eager to learn.
Differences
• High respect / regard for the teaching profession in China
• Forms of government
• So much history and landmarks, but those in America are still “new” in comparison
• Family size: “One child law” in China has created a generation that is not as well “socialized”
• Transportation: Children dropped off at school by bicycle or scooter in China
• Concept of “personal space” and hygiene
• Censorship
What are your impressions of rural and urban China?
The simplicity of life in both is very striking, though different. There does not seem to be an obsession with having “more than you need.” However, the urban areas definitely seem to be striving to become more “American.” Rural China seemed cleaner, more beautiful and traditional, and much less crowded!
What parts of Chinese culture would you consider implementing in your life now you have visited? I am going to walk more (instead of driving) to complete local errands. I am only going to buy what I truly need and what I can carry.
If you were to visit China again, what would you like to see, visit, or experience?
I would like to explore more of the Purple Mountain scenic area in Nanjing. After walking around the city I knew my way around and felt more like a temporary resident than a tourist. Unfortunately just as I had located my favorite spots, it was time to leave! I would also love to explore more of the Great Wall, and many of the other provinces in China.
How would you describe China to those that have never visited before?
It is a magical, culturally-rich, and historic place.
How has your overall impression of China changed over this visit?
I really appreciate a country that I realize now, I knew very little about.
How will this experience now assist in your teaching and/or learning?
I gained hands-on experience in teaching ESOL students. I am much more appreciative of everything I have, and I realize that while I have many resources, I don’t need a lot to truly be an effective teacher.
