Nanjing: Rewarding with Effort Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The teaching method was different in that there was one class which focused specifically on speaking, and another which focused on reading and writing. I think this was helpful, because traditional language classes just lump everything into one class, but dividing speaking and reading/writing allows you to concentrate on each aspect one at a time. For me, that is helpful.

On-site administration of your program

Everything was good in all aspects. I was never unhappy with anything regarding the program.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My neighborhood was very safe and lively even at night. It was close to school and convenient. The host family was organized by CIEE. My host family was very hospitable and treated me like a family member.

Quantity of food is definitely satisfying. The quality depends on your taste in food. I am not picky with food, and I do not mind eating similar foods everyday, so I liked everything. Other students missed American food, but I was fine the whole time.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The best field trip was the trip to Sichuan. It was a week long and we had an activity to do everyday. It was memorable because it was a time for bonding with the other CIEE students.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The city felt safe all the time. I got sick once and went to a clinic. The doctor's medicine did not seem to help my sickness, and when I got better I think it was just because the sickness got better by itself. I did not feel that the clinic helped.

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

I practiced the language with other American students at the same language level as me, teachers, program advisors, and my host family. I used the host country language every single day to at least some extent. Most people spoke in English simply because their language ability was not high enough to only speak Mandarin. Also, as the semester progressed, people began to get into the habit of speaking English instead of Mandarin.

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• Dorm
• Hotel
• Host Family
• Hostel

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• Host Family
• Americans

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• Americans

• Mandarin was required, and English could not be spoken.
• I made local and American friends, and obtained a broader perspective of both Chinese and American people and cultures
• Teachers care about students and want us to learn and succeed.

• The program should be longer, so that it can be enjoyed for a longer time.