Introducing my China Series: As my experience teaching in China for Dartmouth College comes to a close, I am excited to share that the program was an impactful experience. While I knew that we would conduct good work in China, it surpassed and transcended my anticipation. This mini blog series is dedicated to the things that stood out the most.

In the first place, it was a privilege to once again represent the Rassias Method and honor the work of John Rassias. I hope that we did it justice. In particular, I enjoyed being a Master Teacher as I got to employ much creativity and form a connection with my students. It was an honor to represent Dartmouth and the USA in this way, and to conduct mission-driven work.

 

(Photo credit on the left: Beijing International University for Science and Technology)

Additionally, the Dartmouth College team that we built was exceptional. Everyone stepped up and supported one another. The Master Teachers and I shared material and ideas, and the Assistant Teachers put their utmost energy to create a major improvement in the students’ English. A most epic team, we were all driven by the same values and mission of the Rassias Center. Everyone had such unique talents that blended in synergy.

However, the best part of the trip for me was my students. I enjoyed getting to bond with them, and helping to bring out their potential in English and beyond. Watching their development from shy and quiet individuals to confident and accurate speakers was proof of how effective the Rassias method is. Yet, the value that we added through the Rassias method goes beyond language skills. From what I witnessed, students gained greater confidence, creativity, problem solving, and communication skills that will serve well beyond. Their curiosity, enthusiasm, energy, love, and gratitude was truly humbling, as was the gratitude of the kind Chinese staff that we worked with.

 

(Photo credit on the left: Danny)

Being able to engage in such a deep level with the people in China is a rare opportunity and privilege. Most travelers are “tourists” that remain unsatisfying on the margin of the society that they visit, never quite getting to enter or immerse in it – but rather distantly observing as detached visitors. Fortunately this is not the case for most of my travels – rather, I actively work with the people in most places I go to.

These Chinese students, the high school students and the children alike, moved me – they are in my heart. This was a humbling and perfect experience in its own way. It has reinforced my belief in John A. Rassias’s work, and desire to continue advancing education and engaging in teaching. This moment in China was a glimpse into some of the best aspects of humanity. In many ways, it further opened my eyes to what matter most – our experiences together, human connections, what it means to make a difference, and how to do so.

Inspiration to write, to make a change, to accomplish a dream, or to find peace within oneself can be elusive. Inspiration is spontaneous and may or may not happen. Yet, this journey did just that for me. I send gratitude to my team, my students, and everyone I met in China for teaching me a great deal and for being my inspiration.

Photo credit on the top left and bottom: Lisa