Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Classes :(
we had classes today :( but i have noticed alot of different things with my host family. For example i have noticed that while my host family has an A.C. a dishwasher a plasma screen TV fans and many other luxuries they are rarely used. It is as though they have them to well... have them so they can say i have A.C. but it is never used. it is very odd. They also have many very old books that are in a bookcase none of which are suppose to be taken out. although my host father did take out a book and allowed me to read it. it was very interesting it is about how to act in america and all about american customs and manners and how to act around americans. it is like a guide to americans for chinese people. very good read i am a little overwhelmed with the workload ,of the classes, though.
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Sounds like you are learning as much about China,the language and it's culture outside the classroom as you are inside the classroom.
ReplyDeleteDon't be so hard on yourself.
If you are really overwhelmed with the workload, disappointed with your progress, or need to come up for air, discuss these assignments given nightly in your classes with Dr. Chen, privately. They really don't sound realistic for anyone to do well on even some, not even all.
As a teacher myself, I am sure he will not view you any less. Remember you are the only student in the entire program of 24 from 2000 initial applicants, who is the youngest grade wise, is flourishing outside the classroom, walks alone, quite a distance to school, is extremely well liked by your host family, and who is the only US student in a homestay household with no English speakers. Many amazing accomplishments, right there in itself. You should be proud of all this!
You are doing a fantastic job, and to top it all off, you are not even homesick. You don't need to be perfect, amazing, is just fine. :)
WTF you are one of 24 from 2000! i didnt know that. thats an even lower admittance rate than Amherst.
ReplyDeletemom is right dont worry about the classwork, you will learn a lot more about China from the people on the street and your host family than you will from the classroom. thats not to say classes arent important, but there are too many people who are good in the classroom but cant make a government decision that is informed by the actual people. the really successful people understand not just the textbook, but also the street vendor. just something to keep in mind
Ditto to what you mom and Mark said. Also I want to make the following comment with regard to the habits of you host family. I know it’s true that in many European courtiers those most middle glass families who can afford luxuries do in reality use them sparingly. Because energy costs is more expensive than at US . It’s only in America that people as so spoiled and uses energy indiscriminately; valued and expensive collections or rare books are looked as treasures and kept under keyed and looked cabinets.
ReplyDeleteFYI countries where that is true: Greece, France Italy, Germany
Stick with it John, the work should get easier!
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