University of Montana student Lia reflects on her summer teaching English in China through ISEP’s Summer Service Learning Program at Tsinghua University in China.
The Summer Service Learning Program at Tsinghua University was an amazing experience! I met some incredibly kind, intelligent, and inspiring people. The students and faculty at Tsinghua really went out of their way to make us feel at home in a foreign country. Although many of my fellow peers were initially hesitant to try some of the local dishes and traditions, by the end of the trip we were all going out of our comfort zones and thoroughly enjoying it!
One of the most amazing parts of the experience was going to the countryside and teaching English to middle school students. Although I really couldn’t speak Mandarin (except “hi” and the like), I was deeply impacted by the genuine kindness, sincerity, and dedication exhibited by those students. It is truly moving the lengths that some of those students went to to gain access to education.
Although some might think that a few days in the countryside won’t change their lives that much, I really disagree. Merely showing those students what could be is something so inexplicably impactful and beautiful.
I highly recommend you consider going abroad and opening yourself to sometimes scary and uncertain but also incredibly thrilling and incredible experiences. Plus, the food is awesome!!!😉
Thanks, Lia! Are you itching to give back this summer? Check out the Summer Service Learning Program and teach English to students in rural China. There’s even an optional pre-session about Chinese language and culture so you can brush up on your speaking skills and learn what it’s like to live like a local.
Not for you? ISEP’s other summer program options (there are more than 30 — you’re bound to find one you like!).
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