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Whenever I meet someone here, I’m prepared for a similar set of questions: When did I move to Xiamen, what do I do, and how long do I plan to stay? While the questions are familiar, I find my answers to be surprising.
I would have been shocked in disbelief if future-Andrew traveled back in time to my first day in China and told me I would stay in China for two years and have no plan to leave.
And I wouldn’t be shocked just because I discovered time travel. I’d also be shocked because my first week in China was hard, really hard! My journey began with a 50-hour layover-ridden flight from Florida to Xiamen that left me dazed and confused.
It’s amazing what can happen in two years. I learned to survive in a new language and a foreign place. Xiamen has begun to feel like a home rather than a holiday.
I have seen my students grow immensely in both ability and size. Their personalities have blossomed and they are now some of my kindest and funniest friends. I didn’t know I would get to know my kids so well and to bond so tightly with them.
One of the things that makes my life so enjoyable is the consistency of my students. Having the same kids for an extended period of time has helped us to grow closer, to become more confident and to progress happily.
With familiarity, I’ve come to know each student’s knowledge set and strengths and weaknesses as well as the approaches that work best for their unique personalities.
On a personal note, I’ve learnt so much about my own teaching pedagogy and philosophy. I’ve also had a chance to hone the techniques that help a child’s English level develop over time. Without boasting, I’m happy to say that I have a much deeper sense of how to lead a great class and how much I can expect from the kids. It’s more than most people think!
Thanks to our children and my colleagues, I’ve grown a lot as a teacher and a person over the past two years. I’m so thankful for each family that has put their trust in me and I look forward to continuing to repay that trust going forward. Thanks Xiamen!
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Whenever I meet someone here, I’m prepared for a similar set of questions: When did I move to Xiamen, what do I do, and how long do I plan to stay? While the questions are familiar, I find my answers to be surprising.
I would have been shocked in disbelief if future-Andrew traveled back in time to my first day in China and told me I would stay in China for two years and have no plan to leave.
And I wouldn’t be shocked just because I discovered time travel. I’d also be shocked because my first week in China was hard, really hard! My journey began with a 50-hour layover-ridden flight from Florida to Xiamen that left me dazed and confused.
It’s amazing what can happen in two years. I learned to survive in a new language and a foreign place. Xiamen has begun to feel like a home rather than a holiday.
I have seen my students grow immensely in both ability and size. Their personalities have blossomed and they are now some of my kindest and funniest friends. I didn’t know I would get to know my kids so well and to bond so tightly with them.
One of the things that makes my life so enjoyable is the consistency of my students. Having the same kids for an extended period of time has helped us to grow closer, to become more confident and to progress happily.
With familiarity, I’ve come to know each student’s knowledge set and strengths and weaknesses as well as the approaches that work best for their unique personalities.
On a personal note, I’ve learnt so much about my own teaching pedagogy and philosophy. I’ve also had a chance to hone the techniques that help a child’s English level develop over time. Without boasting, I’m happy to say that I have a much deeper sense of how to lead a great class and how much I can expect from the kids. It’s more than most people think!
Thanks to our children and my colleagues, I’ve grown a lot as a teacher and a person over the past two years. I’m so thankful for each family that has put their trust in me and I look forward to continuing to repay that trust going forward. Thanks Xiamen!
5.Teaching Addition Skills at Home
International Sunshine Home is Xiamen’s premier bilingual Arts and Sciences pre-school. Our qualified teachers and small class sizes help your child grow up in a safe and happy environment. We welcome you to visit us in person to find out more. Simply reply to our WeChat and send us your name and your child’s name along with your phone number.
International Sunshine Home Arts & Sciences