Teacher Colleen Shares | Foreign teacher Colleen's share
2023-05-06 10:19
Colleen came to China in 2015 and has worked in Haida for over 7 years. She shared us her teaching and life in Yunhe County which she loves a lot.
Q1
When did you join Haida? What's your feeling of working with Haida during the past years?
I joined Haida for the start of the school year in 2015. Haida has helped me a great deal with regards to employment and I have also done training through Haida. Everyone I've encountered has been very professional and always helpful.
Why did you come to China and stay in Yunhe for so many years?
I came to China to teach English and I have stayed because I am passionate about education and English and I feel very at home in China. There is so much to see and explore and the history spans thousands of years making it very interesting.
Q3
Has the city experienced any changes over the past eight years?
Yes! Several housing estates have been built, as well as two primary schools, a tourist attraction has been completed, new roads have been built and a shopping mall is being constructed.
Q4
What do you think of your school and colleagues?
Q5
Could you please tell us about Chinese students in your eyes?
The students are amazing. They are so eager to learn and be the best that they can be and they are super intelligent! They are respectful and well behaved.
Q6
Could you please share some impressive things between your students and you?
My students love chatting with me and asking questions. They are always trying to improve their English and I help them. The little ones like a hug and to have a close relationship with me. I am more than just their teacher and help them with little things like tying shoelaces, opening food and beverage packages, tying ponytails, helping when they are feeling well – just seeing to their needs.
How to learn English well according to your teaching experience in China?
Learning a new language does take time and practice. It is important to listen carefully and overcome the grip of the mother tongue. When students know enough vocabulary and sentences, they are able to unlock the language for themselves, and use it in various situations. This is very satisfying to see.
Q8
How about your Chinese proficiency?
I speak Chinese to the point where I can help myself with things like shopping, going to the hairdresser, at home, etc. Now I want to learn more complicated language needed in finance and the medical field. Numbers are difficult for me and I always have to think about them because Chinese is my third language and I am also studying Dutch. Each language has their own way of how two and more numbers spoken – it gets confusing.
Q9
We heard that you got married to a Chinese man, what’s your plan for the future?
My plan is to continue living and working in China and to live my China dream. I have settled into daily life and even got my Chinese driver’s license and bought a small secondhand car. Now that travelling is possible again, I want to travel more and see China’s vast beauty and learn more about its rich history.
