Intensive Language in Beijing: Challenge yourself Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Given that this is an Intensive Language course, the workload is heftier than most students are used to. The grading system puts a lot of emphasis on exams even though a majority of the learning experience comes from in-class exercises and everyday use of the language. The teaching method is complete immersion in the culture and language; in the American system the professor keeps a professional distance and disinterest in his/her student while here the professors are involved in everything you do. The level on interest in your personal and academic life takes some time to get used to.

On-site administration of your program

The faculty is well-prepared to handle any problem that arises. They are eager to help you with whatever problem you happen to have.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The students reside in a dormitory on campus. You can choose to have a roommate or live in a suite by yourself. If you opt for a roommate they will provide you with a Chinese roommate. The Chinese roommate are usually quite helpful with the advancement of your language skills. They are often very excited to help you understand their language and more often than not are interested in a lot of the same things you are.

The cafeteria is bland and only serves one meal per day during the week and shuts down on weekends. There are many restaurants in the neighborhood and several convenience stores nearby where food can be purchased. The dormitory has a kitchen where students can make their own food, this is preferable to eating in the cafeteria.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Students are given a spring or fall break to do whatever they would like. China is full of cultural and tourist attractions. The program also plans several culturally enriching trips. Students will hike the Great Wall among other wonderful experiences.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Although Beijing is a large city, it is also the center of military and political power in China. Unless a student is actively seeking trouble, they will often be safe in Beijing. There is always an element of danger in any urban setting: petty crime, pollution, traffic accidents, but the serious crime elements usually remain in the shadows. If a student seeks out these people, there will be trouble.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

The intensive language program requires a language pledge; if you plan to attend this program you will be required to only speak Chinese for the duration of your stay. If you are caught using another language there are penalties including, but not limited to, dismissal from the program. The campus is located in the middle of Beijing, everyday you will be required to use your language skills to interact, whether it's buying food or chatting.

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• Dorm

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• International Students
• Americans

• There is no nonsense, you are there to learn Chinese and that is what will happen.

• This program has been running smoothly for a long time, they have all the kinks worked out.