Teaching English in China （在中国教英文）
ancalagon
April 05, 2009, 11:56 PM posted in General Discussion大家好，
I'm Matt （吕迈修）, a graduating senior at Syracuse University. I'll be in Beijing this coming Summer in an intensive Chinese language program. Following that I hope to remain in China and, at least for a while, teach English. Which brings me to this post...
Like, I assume, many who've decided upon this course of action, I'm essentially feeling my way around in the dark right now and would be forever grateful for a helping hand from those who've been where I am before (or who simply know the deal).
So does anyone have any general advice for someone beginning 'the search'? Should a young (22 year-old), first time visitor to China try and stick to the cities rather than seeking employ in the hinterland? Should I stay north-east if gaining Mandarin fluency is a priority? What's the best way to avoid getting contract-screwed? Any popular institutions/websites to avoid (horror stories abound about many... but sour grapes?)?
So many questions, so little time. I hope this can be a resource for more than just me.
谢谢你们！
matt_c
May 31, 2009, 04:37 PMI have to agree with Beijinstrong. Go teach in the 'hinterland' you'll get paid less but you'll get a taste of the 'real China'. I recommend Hebei, Henan, Shandong, Anhui Provinces. Preferably in a 'Xian' (County) or small 'Shi' (city). Although they will speak a dialect of Putonghua, it will be close to Putonghua.
Other places like Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu (Below Xuzhou) and further south you'll find the dialects much different to Putonghua and almost impossible to understand (unless you have a really good ear for languages).
Beijingstrong said, read your contract carefully, look for what it doesnt contait as well as for what it does contain.
Goodluck, keep an open mind, enjoy! :D
beijingstrong
April 06, 2009, 02:25 PMHi Matt,
May I become your first student learning about English?
Before your teaching, I first answer your quentions about how to accommodate yourself in Beijing. I am a native of Beijing, so I am eligible for helping you to begin your forthcoming new living in Beijing, the ancient and vigorous city.
If you would like to know China deeply and totally, you should get a job such as English teaching in undeveloped districts in China you have mentioned the hinterland.
North-east persons have been eager to develop them in Beijing in stead of their homeland, so north-east is not your best destination.
To avoid contract-cheated, I can help you to read the content of the contract and analyse the context of the contract and then I will give you my advice about whether to sign the contract.
Hope that helps a bit.
BeijingStrong
MSN: beijingstrong@hotmail.com