Study, Volunteer, Teach, Experience...
China Study Abroad
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chinastudyabroad.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CSA Overview
Programs, CON’T.
Fees and Dates
3 4 5 6 8 10 12 14
26 27 28 30 31
60 62 63 64 65 66 68
Why CSA? About CSA All-Inclusive Programs China Basics Living & Studying: China Stats Living & Studying: Profiles Activities Accommodations
Programs 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Programs 3 Cities Teaching Martial Arts High School Youth Adventure Camp Business Programs Corporate Programs Hong Kong/Macau & Foreign Born Chinese
Volunteer Programs Internships What Students are Saying Tailor Made & Group Tours Additional Travel
Cities 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58
Beijing Shanghai Xi’an Kunming Qingdao Tianjin Hangzhou Dalian Nanjing Guilin Guangzhou Chengdu Lhasa
Fees Dates Explanation of Fees Scholarship Information Scholarship Application Giving Back Student Feedback
Applying
70 Application Procedure 71 Application Form
Wrap Up 74 www.chinastudyabroad.org 75 FAQs 76 Asia Study Abroad 78 Map of China
Why Choose China Study Abroad? STUDENT SATISFACTION At China Study Abroad we take great pride in the satisfaction of our students. Day or night, we guarantee that our employees will do everything in their power to make your studying abroad experience a good one. That means that you will always have someone to help you in any given situation. No lip service. All of our staff are well-trained, fluent in English, and have years of experience working with foreigners. PRICE Our program fees are a small price to pay for peace of mind, not to mention our many services and activities. China Study Abroad takes a smaller fee than any other study abroad agency while exceeding the competition in factors like apartment quality, course flexibility and number of group activities/excursions. At China Study Abroad we continually check our prices against our competitors to ensure that we provide our program participants with the lowest prices available. In fact, we’re so confident that you won’t find a better deal anywhere else that we promise to refund you 100% of the difference if you find an identical study abroad package offering equivalent housing and program services.
photo crediT: (transparency) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
TRANSPARENCY Through our forum, blogs, photos, and video you can learn about past students’ experiences directly from the students themselves. Want to know what the accommodations are like in Kunming? Check out the photographs of the actual housing that you will be staying in! Want to see what our activities are like? Watch the videos of our various excursions and activities! Want to know how it feels to be a participant in the China Study Abroad programs? Read through our student, teacher and volunteer blogs! Have questions about the program? Post your queries in the forum and find your answers! We’re confident that those who join China Study Abroad have very fun and fulfilling experiences, and we’re not afraid to prove it. Check us out at www.chinastudyabroad.org. FLEXIBILITY China Study Abroad offers 8 programs to choose from, in over 10 difference cities, 6 different types of housing, classes at 20 different schools, and 4 ways to pay. With starting dates year-round and customizable programs, if YOU can dream it, WE can plan it. China Study Abroad offers more choices so that you can experience China the way that you want. Safety On any CSA program safety is a top priority. Every student is covered with comprehensive medical and emergency insurance through our partner InterGlobal Insurance. Day or night, CSA staff are only a phone call away and all youth programs receive 24 hour supervision with a teacher to student ratio no larger than 1:10.
LEGITIMACY Students should be wary when selecting a study abroad company. They are not all the same. China Study Abroad is registered in both China and Hong Kong. We are also members of NAFSA (Association of International Educators) and ACTFL (American Council of Teaching Foreign Languages). Our programs have been featured in several trusted publications, and for good reason. You can rest assured that by choosing China Study Abroad, you are traveling to China with an internationally recognized company that has been commended for its professionalism time and time again. EXPERIENCE China Study Abroad has hosted hundreds of students from over 36 countries, ranging in age from 17 to 77, in 13 cities throughout China. We know China through and through, and you will benefit from our vast experience. With China Study Abroad, you can be confident that you have a company and a staff with years of experience in the service and education industry, fully prepared to deal with any problems you might have. In all likelihood, we’ve overcome a similar obstacle dozens of times before. LOCAL KNOWLEDGE, WESTERN SERVICE We combine the best of the East and West when assisting our students. Our staff members have an intimate knowledge of the surrounding area, the education system, and the housing market, but they have also been trained to meet the world’s highest standards of customer service. Several of our staff members have spent years working in the service sector for western corporations, even living abroad in western nations before returning home to China. With each of their feet firmly planted in both of these different worlds, our employees are your ideal guides in China. COMMUNITY AWARENESS Every year China Study Abroad contributes to rural schools throughout China. Most recently, our efforts have been concentrated in the impoverished Tibetan region of Qinghai province. As an education company, China Study Abroad recognizes the importance of providing an education to those in need. Education is the key to upwards mobility, everywhere in the world. With this in mind, we’ve developed community schools that provide free basic education to those in need, regardless of age, ethnicity, and gender. Moreover, we encourage our program participants to become involved in our charitable projects by taking them on tours of our community schools, recruiting volunteers, and organizing various fundraising projects such as our charity poker tournament. At China Study Abroad, our ultimate aim is bettering the educational experience for people everywhere. We hope you join us in furthering that goal.
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ABOUT CSA CHINA STUDY ABROAD is a
comprehensive, affordable,
service-oriented study abroad company founded upon two precepts: 1. The best way to learn Chinese is through immersion in a Chinese environment, and 2. Coming to China should be fun and exciting, not difficult. The mission of China Study Abroad (CSA) is to take the uncertainty and frustration out of studying in China so that our students can spend their time actually learning the language! We take care of all the necessities before arrival and continue to provide wide-ranging services in China. From the moment we pick you up at the airport to the moment we drop you off for your flight home, you will be our responsibility. Our students are left to learn the language, explore the culture and its people, and enjoy our numerous excursions and activities.
China Study Abroad Provides Four Essential Services 1. Accommodations Be it a luxury apartment, dormitories on campus, or a homestay with a Chinese speaking family, we find it for you and have it prepared before your arrival in China. You will arrive in China to a furnished living arrangement so that you can start experiencing China immediately, instead of desperately searching for a place to live. 2. School After you have carefully chosen your particular school and program from our array of learning options, we will take care of all of your school registration. You only have to show up to class and learn; everything else is our responsibility. We even purchase your textbooks! And if you are seeking intensive one-on-one instruction after class, we will find you the perfect tutor to accelerate your language learning. Anyone that has attended a university knows that it can be a bureaucratic nightmare. Let us do the work so that you can be a full time student.
3. Excursions and Activities Study hard on the weekdays, and have fun on the weekends! CSA offers various activities throughout the studying term. Our staff will take you on all-inclusive tours of all the exciting 4 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
sights around your city, providing an English-speaking guide and a driver. Our excursions go beyond merely sight-seeing: ever wanted to go camping on the Great Wall of China or try eating Scorpion for dinner? Moreover, there’s always the popular CSA social nights such as our Iron Chef competitions, charity poker tournaments, and karaoke nights! Lastly, we also have various cultural events such as lectures from scholars on Chinese culture or lessons in making dumplings! We guarantee that there will always be fun and edifying activities for you to attend if you come to China with CSA.
4. Service Lastly, and most importantly, we offer our students 24-hour customer service. Whether you are lost at 3 in the morning, need help buying a bicycle, need to go to the hospital, or simply want to know the best place to get noodles, we are there for you! We are also your personal travel agency and will gladly arrange any travel plans you may have, from buying tickets to a local football match, to booking a trip to Inner Mongolia. We do it all. You can rest assured that there will always be someone looking out for you and your best interests when you are studying in China. You’ll be spending less time getting acclimated to a foreign country and using your time to actually learn the culture and its language!
All Inclusive Programs Included in all China Study Abroad Programs: The Basics ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Tuition and registration fees Pre-arranged, fully-furnished accommodation for the duration of your program (except for Teaching and Volunteer Placement Programs) InterGlobal “Student Care” Health and Travel Insurance All university student fees Textbooks Airport pick up and drop off Personalized and knowledgeable 24-hour customer service from beginning to end
Academic Support ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Placement tests upon arrival to find the exact Mandarin language befitting your level of study Personal advising for selecting the city, university, housing and program that best suits your needs Academic advising Credit transfer and course approval assistance with your home university Language Partner referral and placement to augment Mandarin learning Experienced Mandarin tutors (for Intensive Program) Access to the China Study Abroad language learning website
Predeparture ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Acceptance materials Student visa advising Health exam and vaccinations information Informational CD-ROM with “Living in China” package, Chinese dictionary program, Chinese fonts, Chinese homework trainer, Chinese character-input programs, Chinese character recognition tests, and links to online Chinese language and travel resources Travel advising, ticket buying tips, packing list, and travel agency and website referrals
✓ Welcome dinner ✓ Student orientation and reception
While in China ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
24-hour customer service CSA networking resources Accommodation management including itemized utilities Continued service and correspondence with the US office Personalized mail and package delivery Travel arrangements – CSA is your personal travel agency while in China, without the service fees! Optional student travel tours arranged by CSA staff without service or guide fees
Activities ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
CSA Social Events such as Karaoke Night, Poker Tournaments, Bowling, Bar-hopping nights, Thanksgiving Dinner, Christmas Party, Iron-Chef Competitions and much more! CSA Excursions including guided tours to nearby cultural, historical, and natural sites including, but not limited to, camping trip at the Great Wall, skiing and snowboarding weekend, trips to sporting and music events, museums, temples, Chinese Opera night and banquets introducing Chinese cuisine (Excursions vary based upon student's city of study) Workshops, lectures and seminars concerning Chinese Business, Society and Culture Student Lounge with widescreen high-def television, internet access and study area (only available for Beijing program participants)
Additional Opportunities ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Free internship and teaching placement for language study participants Volunteering options and placement Job referral and recommendations Featured placement for blogs, video and photography at www.chinastudyabroad.org
Parent / Family Support
Returning Home
✓ Parental Information Packet ✓ Student activity updates, videos, photos and blogs accessible at www.chinastudyabroad.org
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Financial Assistance ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Official transcripts and reorder assistance Airport drop-off Continued academic advising & credit transfer assistance Access to CSA alumni database, forums, and blogs Membership in the CSA business and alumni network
Exclusive China Study Abroad scholarship opportunities Financial Aid transfer assistance Customizable billing and payment options Financial guide with advice & sample student budgets
photo crediT: CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
On-arrival ✓ ✓
Airport pick up Welcome Pack including: Mobile Phone with local SIM card, CSA cloth bag, Chinese-English dictionary, Student Orientation Booklet, Taxi Guide Card, Insider's Guidebook, Local Map, CSA Polo, and Classic Chinese DVDs (Welcome Pack contents dependent upon city of study)
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CHINA BASICS China is a land of hyperbole: the oldest continuous civilization in human history, the world’s largest population, the fastest economic growth rate ever seen, and the third largest country on the planet. Throughout the millennia, describing China has been an effort left to propagandists and poets. Surely, the truth about China remains somewhere in between tales of mass starvation told to fussy eaters and an economic and political behemoth capable of sending trains over the world’s highest mountains, damming raging rivers, controlling the world wide web, and delivering 1.3 billion people into prosperity. It seems almost contradictory that we can really know so little about a country that is so widely covered in the news, oft-mentioned by politicians, and thoroughly dissected in economic and political reports. It becomes increasingly apparent that fully comprehending China necessitates a lengthy stay in this land, if not a lifetime.
HISTORY China traces its roots back over 5,000 years. Archaeological artifacts with writings similar to Chinese script have been carbon dated back to 1500 BC. It is generally accepted, that China was first unified in 221 BC, under Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Much has been said about the first emperor of China. Legends of his atrocities are always counterpointed by his contributions to China including standardization of the Chinese written language, introducing centralized government, implementing legal code, beginning the Great Wall of China, standardizing currency and measures, and of course unifying China under one government. Today, he is still an iconic figure that is regularly represented in film, television and literature. Many consider the imperial era of China to be the apex of Chinese civilization, with a sphere of cultural, economic and political influence that reached around the globe. At this time, it was the great land of Cathay, written by about Marco Polo, the end point of the Silk Road, the origin of the Confucian system, Daoism, and a written language still used today all around Asia. Chinese culture was so ubiquitous and encompassing that when neighboring invaders such as the Manchurians and Mongolians conquered China, instead of colonizing the Chinese, both successfully assimilated themselves into Chinese culture, becoming the Yuan and Qing Dynasties respectively. Kublai Khan, the founder of the Yuan Dynasty did not vie for control in his ancestral home of Mongolia, more than happy to be the Emperor of China instead. The Machurians, who named their dynasty Qing after the Chinese word for “purity“, strictly enforced all codes of Confucian bureaucracy, making it their mission to “out-Chinese the Chinese.” 6 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
The imperial era lasted until 1911. During this 2000 year period, the geographic borders of China dynamically ebbed and flowed, while the Imperial mandate of heaven to rule China was held by over 13 dynasties. Some lasted as long as 300 years, while others only 12. Nonetheless, the Confucian system which posited that the mandate of heaven resided solely with the Emperor went unquestioned until the late 19th century, when a revolutionary thinker by the name of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen proposed to overturn millennia-worth of tradition by creating a Chinese republic. Severely weakened by revolutions at home and foreign encroachment on the coast, the Qing Dynasty crumbled. The transition to popular rule was not easy. China underwent a lasting warlord era as competing interests fought for control. Eventually Sen’s republic rose to power, but peace was not to last, as China was then invaded by Japan at the onset of WWII. This was then followed by brutal civil war between the Kuomingtang (KMT) and the Communist Party of China (CPC). When the smoke cleared in 1949, the CPC retained control over the mainland and the KMT had been relegated to the island of Taiwan off the coast of Fujian Province. On October 1, 1949, the People’s Republic of China was proclaimed under its charismatic leader Mao Zedong. From 1949-1976, mainland China underwent a socialist overhaul. Land, industry, and many forms of private property were collectivized. Confucianism and Feudalism were abolished, while much of the population was moved on to collectives.
These series of reforms were called the Great Leap Forward, which largely devastated the economy and the Chinese population because of famine, natural disasters, and gross mismanagement. With the failure of these campaigns and Mao’s death, Deng Xiaoping took control over the CPC after a lengthy power struggle. Deng’s ascendancy ushered in a period of financial reform in 1976 that de-collectivized the countryside and aimed for decentralizing government control over major industries. Deng proclaimed that the People’s Republic of China would utilize a “socialism with Chinese characteristics” and that “to be rich is glorious.” Slowly but surely over the past 3 decades, China has lived by these mottoes. Today, the story of China is not one of starving children but monumental economic growth and a burgeoning super power fighting for its right to be a global player. Recently accepted into the World Trade Organization, hosting the 2008 Summer Olympics, leading the world in exports, and home of the world’s largest corporation (SinoPec), China is making its presence heard. After a hundred years of relative obscurity, 1.3 billion people are ready to take center stage in the 21st century.
Geography The word for China, ZhongGuo, means “middle kingdom,” reflecting the long-held belief that China was the center of the world. Nationalistic pride aside, one can’t really blame the Chinese for thinking so—China is huge. Encompassing, the Tibetan plateau in the southwest, the Siberian Tundra to the northeast, the Gobi Desert in the northwest, the tropics of southeast Asia due south and the vast Pacific coastline to the east, China is estimated to be 9,640,821 km. The country borders 14 other nations and includes 14,500 km of coastline. China boasts mountain ranges, deserts, alluvial plains, deltas, rain forests, frozen tundras, grassland steppes, and countless rivers. With over 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (and counting), the scenery in China is unbeatable.
Language The official language of China is Mandarin, or “Putonghua.” The word Chinese is a bit of misnomer, as there are over 158 different dialects of Chinese; Chinese is more aptly described as a language family. Over the centuries, efforts have been made to standardize the language, with Mandarin being the modern incarnation. Nonetheless, throughout China many children grow up speaking a variant dialect only to learn Mandarin when starting school. Although they are often called “dialects,” these variant forms of Chinese are more aptly described as different languages. In fact, English and French are more closely related than Mandarin and Cantonese. Commonalities between dialects include tonality, which is largely absent in European languages. What does unify these variegated dialects is the written language. Because the writing is non-phonetic, characters can represent the same object or idea in multiple languages. Standardization of this writing has also been a centralized governmental
effort throughout Chinese history. Today, the two remnants are simplified Chinese (used in the People’s Republic of China) and traditional Chinese (used in the rest of the Chinese-speaking world). Written Chinese script has had its changes, but has remained relatively consistent compared to its spoken counterpart. Thus, Chinese people from different time periods and geographic areas would still be able to write each other letters, although the grammar and form has gradually changed with time. An educated literacy level is commonly thought to be around 4000 characters, all of which must be memorized. Because of its pictographic and tonal qualities, Chinese is one of world’s most difficult languages. However, the effort is well-worth it as Chinese is spoken by over 1.5 billion people, and with China’s economic ascendancy, Mandarin may soon supplant English as the new lingua franca.
Economy Over the past 25 years, China has boasted the world’s fastest growth rate at over 10% a year. With a gross domestic product (GDP) of over $3.25 trillion, China powers the world’s 3rd largest economy behind only the USA and Japan. The per-capita income rises by 8% annually, and its annual exports are at $963 billion. This economic rise has corresponded with a slow loosening of governmental control over free enterprise, as only a third of the economy is now controlled directly by the state. Economic reform and encouragement of private income has also brought about increased foreign investment, which stood at $700 billion in 2006. Everybody wants to break into the Chinese market. With such unrelenting growth, several issues have arisen including environmental problems, natural disasters such as flooding and sandstorms caused by erosion and desertification, as well as an ever-widening gap between rich and poor. And while the GDP is among the highest in the world, the average yearly income of a Chinese citizen is only $2000 USD, 86th in the world. Moreover, several things constrain Chinese growth including poor transportation infrastructure, insufficient energy resources, and mismanaged communications networks. Nonetheless, the state continues to address these key issues by constructing massive projects including hydro-technology, mass highway and rail systems, replanting of forests, as well as efforts to environmentally regulate industry and improve income disparity through education. What remains irrefutable is that economic growth has drastically improved poverty levels and living standards throughout most of China. China’s past remains an ever present reminder of its vast potential, and though the future of China is bright the path is also fraught with potential pitfalls. The present is a time for both celebration and caution, as everyone is watching with eyes peeled, desperate to understand China and its effect on our globalized world. Don’t just sit and watch. Come experience this epic moment in world history firsthand with China Study Abroad!
basic china facts Title: People’s Republic of China | Capital: Beijing | Largest City: Shanghai | Government: Socialist Republic Official Language: Mandarin | Population: 1,321,851,888 | Gross Domestic Product (GDP): $3.25 trillion Demographics: 56 native Ethnic Groups | Currency: Yuan (CNY) 7
Living & Studying in China Statistics China Study Abroad will make your transition in China as easy as possible, allowing you to immediately dive into your studies. That being said, there is still much to learn and explore throughout China. Of course, your student experience will vary greatly depending upon your choice of program and city of study (for more information see the program and city pages included in this catalog). To provide a glimpse of CSA student life we have compiled some basic program statistics below. For more detailed information, please inquire at info@chinastudyabroad.org.
Program Breakdown 100 80 60 40 20
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Study, Volunteer, Teach, Experience...
www.chinastudyabroad.org Experience Matters 9
Student Spotlights POSTCARD
living & Stud
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Anna Maitland
lived in Central Anna is a world traveler, who has Before coming an. Taiw and on Lond n, Spai America, hing English in teac year a to China, she spent over arin speaking Mand her up d picke she re whe Taiwan talent and istic lingu ble ability. With her considera a natural fit was she rs, othe ing help for passion for the CSA volunteer program.
placed at the Through CSA, Anna was g, a Chinese run Beijin in (CA) nce Allia ity Commun ying for the lobb in s ialize O) that spec Non-Governmental Organization (NG spends 15 Anna cer, Offi ons icati mun Com rights of elders in China. As a ioning petit s, ment docu g lating and editin hours a week writing grants, trans . Visit the work ative nistr admi r othe and for additional international support, during iance.org.cn. Anna also found time CA website at www.communityall to the CSA trip nteer volu the take to the October 1st National Holiday youth. h English to impoverished Tibetan Community School in Golog to teac s. nteer volu r othe the to l ficia Her teaching experiences were bene and at de 7 hours a week of Wu Shu Anna’s other weekly activities inclu of one from ing runn not tutoring. When least 7 hours a week of English In fact, her ing. danc a sals and ing cook s her activities to another, Anna enjoy er of the ughout CSA, as she was the winn cooking prowess is renown thro Chicken over m hroo Mus er Pepp n Gree her inaugural Iron Chef Contest with concoct a ksgiving banquet, she managed to Rice. In fact, for the CSA Than ! oven an of use delicious Pumpkin Pie without the
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Photo: Anna in Tibet
POSTCARD
Manuel Aguilar
On his off time fro m studying and travel ing, Manuel loves to video games and watch play ing sporting events. He can regularly be fou the CSA student lou nd at nge with his X-Box plugged into the wid HDTV. Moreover, he escreen has led student exc ursions to the Fo One race in Shanghai rmula and the Women’s So ccer World Cup Ma in Tianjin. As CSA’s tch newest staff memb er especially hired Spanish Speakers pro for the gram, expect to see him at all the events the Beijing Olympics during ! Photo: Manuel at the American Chamber of Commerce in Beijing
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Though originally fro m El Salvador, Manu el spent the last 3 studying engineering years in the United State s. After perusing the website, Manuel dec CSA ided to take a year off to learn Chinese. No he’s in China, he ho w that pes to never leave. He loves the Chinese and their culture and people hopes to build a life here, although once he absolutely must a week fulfill his craving for authentic Mexican foo going downtown to d by eat at Fogoncito’s, which Manuel insist best tacos this sid s has the e of the Pacific.
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In CSA, everyone knows Manuel. He has been with the CSA pro gram for nearly a yea r, and also took part in the Summer St udy and Travel program. During the 2 week tra vel portion, he and oth er program participa nts visited Shanghai, Xi’ an, and Guilin. (Fo r details, photos, and videos see the Summ er Study and Travel Pro gram Page: at www. chinastudyabroad.org /summer_csa.aspx).
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China Study Abroad
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Student Spotlights POSTCARD
Amy Gardner
living & St
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China
Amy is one of the mo st accomplished stu dents in the CSA program. Her Chinese speaking is fluent and her chara cter recognition is at over 2000 characters. She is also a talent ed violinist and music ian. Before joining the CSA program, she spe nt a summer studyi ng ancient Japanese mu sic in Tokyo on a spe cial grant through Colum bia University. She als o has spent time learnin g the 二胡 (“Er Hu”) traditional Chinese str a inged instrument.
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Since moving to Ch ina, she has perfor med with the Inter Festival Orchestra national at the Forbidden Cit y Music Hall, don performances at the e solo Ritz Carlton and the Soho Building, as we regularly performed ll as in a French Gypsy Jazz duo at Beijing’s French restaurant, Le finest Bistrot Parisien. She also spends her time music lessons, perfor giving ming “musical therap y” at a local hospital interning at the Empow , and erment and Rights Institute (ERI), an dedicated to human NGO rights in China.
China Study Abroad
University Road
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Shanghai, China
Amy also joined the volunteering trip to the Tibetan Plateau CSA Community sc and the hool, which was a profoundly moving exp for her. She nearly erience kidnapped one of the Tibetan children at the co-sponsored Golog CSA Orphanage. However, she promised him tha return. Upon complet t she’d ion of her Chinese stu die s, she intends on joi the volunteering pro ning gram at the CSA Co mmunity school in Go a semester to teach log for music and English.
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Photo: Amy at the CSA Community School in Tibet
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ACTIVITIES Not only does China Study Abroad’s all-inclusive programs include your housing and schooling, but it also helps you fill in your spare time when you aren’t busy studying. Nearly every weekend, program participants have a new and fun CSA activity to occupy their time. Moreover, what really sets CSA apart from other education companies is the quality and breadth of its wide-ranging activities. In continuing the company’s mission statement of improving global education, CSA offers activities that are both enriching and fun, while also being once-in-a-lifetime and totally unique. CSA staff members take an immense amount of pride in how much fun students have on CSA-run activities, while also having a great time themselves! One might say that activities really are the best perks of the job, (other than getting to work with students from around the world of course!). These all-inclusive activities are always free of charge to program participants, including any transportation, entrance fees, equipment rentals, possible accommodations and guide fees unless otherwise stated. If requesting feedback from a CSA program participant, don’t forget to ask about the fun excursions and events. Activities vary depending upon program of study, but we guarantee that no matter your city of choice, students will be taken to see all of the major cultural sites and tourist attractions in the surrounding area.
Cultural Excursions All visitors to Beijing must see the Great Wall of China, but very few can claim to have hiked through an entire section and slept on the monument overnight. However, all program participants in Beijing have the opportunity by attending the annual Great Wall camping trip. This is just one example in the gamut of great cultural excursions provided to CSA program participants. Cultural excursions are always guided by a knowledgeable English-speaking tour guide who can explain the significance of China’s impressive national monuments and natural wonders. Moreover, these excursions are always expansive in their breadth. For example, the CSA hutong tour first takes students to the urban planning museum, so that participants can better understand the past, present and future of Beijing’s architecture, before taking them on a tour of the remaining hutongs on a rickshaw, and concluding the excursions with a dinner in a traditional 4-square hutong home with a Chinese family that has lived in the hutongs for generations. Rest assured, CSA staff have gone to great lengths to ensure quality and informativeness for these cultural excursions. 12 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
While it would be impossible to describe all of the activities in detail in this small space, for your benefit the actual activity itinerary for Beijing’s Fall program has been included below.
Educational Events Every year, CSA works hard to find additional speakers for its already impressive range of lectures & workshops concerning
everything from Chinese culture, business, society, and arts. These lectures typically take place at the CSA student lounge or at special invitation-only events put on by organizations such as the American Chamber of Commerce. Recent lectures include a speech on Energy consumption and solutions by oil billionaire and corporate raider T. Boone Pickens, economics lectures, human rights lectures, and academically directed discussions on contemporary Chinese cinema. Outside of lectures, CSA also takes students to experience Chinese culture such as trips to the Peking Opera, Chinese Acrobatics Shows, and banquets with traditional Chinese cuisine.
Social Activities Of course everyone needs to have a little fun, which is why CSA holds many fun events good for calming the stressedout student such as bar-hopping night, Christmas and Thanksgiving parties, cooking competitions, charity poker tournaments, hiking trips, shopping trips, and of course the annual all-inclusive skiing/snowboarding trip! While these events aren’t as culturally or educationally valuable, CSA thinks that having a lot of fun is a value in and of itself.
Volunteer Activities Occasionally, program participants will also have opportunities to join one-time only volunteer events. Past events have included tree-planting programs as well as the bi-annual week-long trip to impoverished rural schools to teach English and make donations. Any extra fees on volunteering activities must be borne by program participants. For specifically volunteer-only programs, please see “Volunteer Program” on page 26.
Fall 2008 Activities Schedule Thursday, September 13th: Welcome Dinner, Orientation, and Social Night 6:30 p.m. Saturday, September 15th: Beijing Planning Exhibition Hall and Hutong Tour (including dinner with a local family) 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 18th: AmCham Event: Cultural Preservation in Beijing: Saving the Remaing Hutongs Saturday, September 22nd: Summer Palace 1:00 p.m. October 1st-7th: The National Holiday (Recruit Volunteers to visit the CSA Golog Community School in Tibet) Saturday, October 13th: The Great Wall Hike and Camping (Bring your own sleeping bag and picnic lunch) 5:00 p.m. Saturday, October 20th: Hiking at the Fragrant Mountain 10:00 p.m. Sunday, October 28th: Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City 1:00 p.m. Saturday, November 3rd: Shopping at the Silk Market and WangFuJing Night Snack Market 2:00 p.m. Sunday, November 11th: Lama Temple and Confucius Temple 1:00 p.m. Sunday, November 18th: The Temple of Heaven and Peking Opera 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 8th: Skiing/Snowboarding trip 5:00 p.m. Monday, December 24th: Christmas Party 6:00 p.m. Saturday, January 6th, 2008: Acrobatic Show 6:00 p.m. January 2008: Farewell Dinner
photo crediTs: (ALL) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
Actual Activities Itinerary for Fall Beijing Program
13
Accommodations All China Study Abroad accommodations are located within the heart of the university district, minutes away from the major universities and only a short bus or taxi ride away from the others. Accommodations always have a western-style kitchen, bathroom and accommodations with 24-hour hot water. Unless in university housing, China Study Abroad students always have their own room, high-speed internet, and air conditioning. Each unit is located in a lively and safe area, with supermarkets, stores, nightlife, fitness clubs, public transportation and restaurants all in walking distance. Nearly all accommodations have 24-hour security. Some accommodation options are unavailable in select cities. Please email info@chinastudyabroad.org for more information.
Luxury Apartments These modern and spacious apartments come fully furnished. Each apartment has a living and dining room, bathroom and kitchen, and your choice of a single, double, or triple bedroom. The living area includes a lounge, dining area, TV (cable), DVD, desk, chairs, washing machine, highspeed internet access and telephone. The bedroom has a bed and storage area for clothes and personal belongings. The kitchen has a refrigerator, microwave and basic cooking utensils. Students living in luxury apartments have all utilities paid for including high-speed internet, gas, water, electricity. Moreover, luxury apartments have weekly cleaning service included. These units are among the nicest living accommodations in the university district.
Standard Apartments These are all fully-furnished, clean, and comfortable apartments. In each apartment you will have your own bedroom, a living and dining room, bathroom and kitchen. The living room has a sofa, TV, DVD, hi-speed Internet access, washing machine, and telephone. The bedroom has a bed, desk, chair, and storage area for clothes and personal belongings. The kitchen has a sink, fridge, microwave and stove.
Family Homestay Live with a Chinese family. China Study Abroad offers 14 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
the option of living with a Chinese family to maximize your Mandarin-learning efforts while in China. Students that stay with a family are immediately immersed in the language and culture of China. Regularly communicating with a homestay family will exponentially increase one’s language learning rate. All of our families are middle to upper-middle class and have been interviewed for suitability. Many participants are surprised by the outstanding apartment quality of their host family. Moreover, many families are eager to show foreigners around China. Students are often lucky enough to their host family take them on free sightseeing trips. A private bedroom, necessary utilities and at least two meals a day are included in every homestay. All families have standard amenities including a bathroom (often private), kitchen, dining area, TV, DVD, internet, telephone etc. These homestay families are also located within the university district, within walking distance of a student’s university. China Study Abroad requires that all students under the age of eighteen live with a homestay family.
Young Professional Homestay Live with a young, professional, Chinese roommate. This housing option, only offered by China Study Abroad, is ideal
ACCOMMODATIONS for those who wish to take advantage of total language immersion, but do not want to stay with a Chinese family. This living arrangement is also the best way to quickly make Chinese friends and experience Chinese youth culture. If you choose this option CSA will arrange for your housing and select suitable roommates from a pool of potential candidates. Many young Chinese are also eager to live with a foreigner so they too can learn about another culture and have the opportunity to practice their English. Apartment quality is similar to that of the Standard apartment.
Hotel For students looking to live in the most luxurious accommodations possible, China Study Abroad offers the Hotel option. Students are placed in a minimum-three star hotel located minutes away from their school of choice. Each hotel room is fully equipped with modern furniture, bed, fridge, private bathroom, satellite TV, air-conditioning, and telephone (IDD and ISD). Hotel facilities include laundry, daily housekeeping, a swimming pool, fitness gym, and a variety of restaurants. Depending upon location, certain hotels also have bowling alleys, cyber cafes, business centers, arcades, tennis courts, and billiards rooms. Single room and double room occupancy is available.
University Housing China Study Abroad has carefully selected university accommodation options based on security, location
and comfort. For privacy and convenience, single room occupancy is highly recommended. Accommodation starts the day before the program, and ends the day after the program. Extra-night accommodations are subject to availability. CSA makes all accommodation reservations and preparations prior to students’ arrival. Each dorm room has one or two single beds, desk, chair, telephone, TV, refrigerator, and air conditioning. Electricity and water are included in the accommodation. Students have the option of single or double occupancy. For double occupancy, CSA may assign a roommate or the University may assign one for you.
What Students are saying...
strongest point of the service, for “The one who is going to China to really work and get down to the business of studying Chinese language, is the fact that all of the accommodations, testing, airport transport, etc., are taken care of before your plane lands. The only thing I had to worry about was studying Chinese, which is why I went.
”
—Matthew T. McDonald, Summer Program 2007, Beijing
PROGRAMS OVERVIEW Undoubtedly, the best way to learn Mandarin is to live and study in China, but studying abroad entails so much more than just university classes. China Study Abroad offers a variety of programs to fit your unique educational needs. People looking to learn Chinese span every age group, background, and field of interest, which is why CSA offers a program to fit each individual. Moreover, our programs are offered year round, for any time frame, and in over 13 cities. CSA is here to ensure that your studying abroad experience is as rich and diverse as you are. At the core of CSA is our Mandarin language learning program. All students in the standard Mandarin language program will receive 4 hours of teaching, 5 days a week, for the length of their program. Students in the intensive program will receive 6 hours of instruction (in-class and private tutor), 5 days a week. CSA’s Mandarin language programs ensure a strong foundation for complete beginners, vast improvement for intermediates students, and complete fluency for advanced students. CSA has scouted China for the finest language teaching institutions, and most of our programs offer certificates of completion, transcripts, as well as transferable college credits. Many universities have been teaching foreign students for over a decade. Also, these universities have full-scale language teaching departments, which offer classes for all levels of Chinese proficiency. Each university and school has its own individual teaching style. Be sure to ask a CSA program advisor to figure out which school and program fits you best. Many of our students join the Mandarin program, while adding additional supplemental programs such as teaching, internship positions, martial arts, volunteering, business classes, or travel. Many of these additional placement programs are included with the standard Mandarin language program. Additional fees may apply for other programs. Please see each page for details. Studying abroad is a cumulative and holistic experience, so why limit yourself? Find the program that has
16 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
everything you need, and feel free to mix and match programs to find what fits you best. CSA knows that every student is different, which is why flexibility is our top priority. Pick your city, pick your school, pick your program, pick your type of housing, and pick your length of study. In the following pages, you will find some of the many programs CSA offers its students, and if you don’t find what you’re looking for, tell us! We will bend over backwards to satisfy your unique requirements. Studying with CSA means China with choice. China Study Abroad offers numerous study programs to fit your scheduling needs. Whether you are looking to study for 2 weeks or 1 year, CSA has the program for you.
Semester The vast majority of students join the CSA program for one school semester. Universities in China generally run on the semester program, which rotate around the winter and summer holidays and roughly correlate with semester programs worldwide. The fall semester generally begins in mid to late September, extending until mid January, ending before the Lunar New Year. Unlike in western countries, universities do not break for the Christmas or New Year holidays. Spring classes begin in mid-February and extend until early July. In total, each university averages around 20 weeks of instruction, including orientation and placement testing. The semester program is usually most viable for college students looking to study abroad for one school term.
photo crediT: (GREAT WALL) Trey Ratcliff, www.flickr.com/photos/stuckincustoms/1194563275 | (STUDENT) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
12-weeks
Short-term Programs
For students that are looking to study during the school year, but cannot commit to semester-long programs that extend into July or January, CSA offers 12-week programs. Many of these programs are also offered by accredited universities. Despite the length, these credits still transfer to almost all universities because of the long hours of instruction. Moreover, these are often accelerated programs, which make up for the brevity with accelerated lessons.
No matter your timetable, CSA will accommodate you. For students looking to do programs for 4 weeks or less, CSA offers classes at private Mandarin learning academies in various cities. Please inquire at info@chinastudyabroad. org for more details.
Summer Several universities offer summer programs, that last anywhere from 4 weeks to 12 weeks. We find that the summer programs are very popular, and because of the relative brevity of the programs, students are free to spend time before or after their programs to travel through China. A very popular program is CSA’s study and travel program, which includes 4 weeks of study at an accredited university with 2 weeks of travel throughout China for one low price. Every year, returning students rejoin the CSA Summer Study and Travel program. Simply put, it’s the perfect combination of study and play.
Year The year-long program language program is essential for students looking to master Mandarin. Extending for 2 semesters, these programs include accommodation during the summer and winter holidays, during which students are free to go home or explore China to the fullest. Students in the year-long program are assured of Chinese fluency at the end of their study, and can boast of consummate knowledge of China. After reaching a fluent Mandarin level, several alumni of the year-long CSA program were fullyprepared to pursue higher degree programs at Chinese universities or entered the Chinese job market. Lastly, the year-long language program is also the best value for the price of all CSA programs.
17
3 Cities The only way to truly know and understand a city is to live there. In fact, China Study Abroad offers students the chance to live and study in three cities during one semester! This is the ideal program for those who wish to understand China’s modern realities in the context of its long and unique history. Students who choose the 3 Cities Program study for seven weeks in Beijing, two weeks in Xi’an, and seven weeks in Shanghai at the cities’ most prestigious universities. The curriculum is connected through each city by its central themes of intensive Mandarin language as well as understanding of Chinese culture through its history, politics, and economic future. Each city offers a unique curriculum as well as the geographical background that reflects the course material. During their time in each city, students will be taken on all-inclusive sightseeing excursions of culturally and historically significant sites. China Study Abroad’s 3-Cities program is more than just a class; it’s a learning experience.
Beijing - 7 Weeks Beijing is the capital of the People’s Republic of China, the country’s political, economic planning and cultural center, the focal point of its communications, and home to over 14 million people. The successful 2008 Olympic Games reflected China’s increasing stature in the modern world. Beijing remains the most popular destination for students studying Mandarin Chinese. For the Beijing portion, students will take two simultaneous courses in intensive Mandarin language and Modern Chinese History and Politics at China’s most prestigious school Peking University. The course traces the history of the People’s Republic of China, from the communist revolution to the reforms of the 1980s and China’s current economic boom.
Xi’an - 2 Weeks Home of the world famous, life-size Terracotta Army, Xi’an was the cradle of ancient Chinese civilization dating back to 4,000 BC, and the capital city for 11 dynasties dating back to the 9th century. It is from here that caravans started on the Silk Road to Europe, changing the Western world forever. Today Xi’an is a bustling city the size of New York and a great place to study for those wishing to experience the ancient alongside the modern. For the Xi’an portion, students will take two
Shanghai - 7 Weeks Energy, excess, and glamour converge in China’s most cosmopolitan city. Home of the historic Bund, traditional temples, the coveted French Concession, and the proud pioneer of futuristic architecture, Shanghai has it all. For the final seven weeks students will live and study in China’s exciting financial center and experience the future of China. For the Shanghai portion, students will take two simultaneous courses in intensive Mandarin language and Chinese Business at Jiaotong University. The course will fully immerse students in the complex workings of the Chinese economy, such as regulatory governmental controls, energy use, environmental pitfalls, transparency of law, overheating of the economy, globalization, the merging of the Hong Kong market, and the financial future of the world’s soon-to-be third largest economy. For an exact itinerary, detailed activity lists, and further information, please see www.chinastudyabroad.org/three_cities.aspx.
Schools
Duration
Class Hours
Starting Dates
Chinese Levels
Accomodations
Placement Services
Application deadlines
PKU
Semester
Daily 4 hrs. Mandarin, 1.5 hrs. Chinese Society
Sept. 3, Mar. 3
All
Hotel
n/a
Aug. 15, Feb. 15
Xi’an
North- western Semester Daily 4 hrs. Mandarin, 1.5 hrs. Chinese Society University
Sept. 3, Mar. 3
All
Hotel
n/a
Aug. 15, Feb. 15
Shanghai
Jiaotong Daily 4 hrs. Mandarin, Semester University 1.5 hrs. Chinese Society
Sept. 3, Mar. 3
All
Hotel
n/a
Aug. 15, Feb. 15
Beijing
18 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
simultaneous courses in intensive Mandarin language and Ancient Chinese History at Northwestern University. The course traces the epic and prolific history of the Chinese civilization, starting with the mythical Yellow Emperor to the beginnings of the Qing -China’s last imperial dynasty.
TEACH China Study Abroad’s teaching program is a great option for students who want to earn a salary while living and studying in China. CSA guarantees teaching placements that, at a minimum, comfortably cover living expenses. In a globalized world, increasing numbers of Chinese people recognize that knowledge of the English language is essential to upward mobility. Private English teaching schools are desperate for native speakers to teach this growing market. Applicants that apply for a full-time year-long program or longer receive free accommodation. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and be native English speakers without a strong regional accent. Higher salaries are awarded to those with teaching certification and classroom experience. Teaching positions range from part-time oneon-one tutoring to full-time class teaching. All students in CSA Mandarin language programs are offered free teaching placement. Past students have taken part-time teaching work during weekends, off-time, and holidays to supplement their expenses. Other students spend a semester studying full-time, after which they take on full-time teaching positions. Those applying to the teaching program separate from Mandarin language programs are required to pay a $500 USD fee, which offers guaranteed full-time teaching placement as well as all the other benefits of the CSA program, including airport pick up and drop off, welcome pack, orientation, and 24-hour emergency service. Applicants for full-time teaching programs must commit for longer than 3 months. CSA employees will do their best to find teaching positions that fit your unique skill-set and requirements. Wages are dependent on teaching experience, level of education and the individual schools, but typically vary between $14-28 USD an hour. Full-time teachers typically work 30-40 hours a week. However, part-time positions are still well-paid and working hours can be as little as 5-10 hours a week. Class sizes depend upon the school, ranging from 5-30. Some teachers teach night classes to adults, while others teach children during the day. All schools provide teaching materials
and training. Many have standardized curricula and lesson plans they require for all classes, but others may be less strict, allowing for individual teaching styles. Regardless, teaching requires an extended amount of patience and people skills. However, English teachers often have full-time native Chinese teaching aides to help out with classes as well as the occasional translation problem. When applying, please make sure to detail your work experience, teaching preferences, and time-commitment. Many CSA students have found teaching English to be an invaluable experience, not only for monetary reasons but also for getting to know Chinese people on an interpersonal level. The CSA teaching program also offers people of all income levels the opportunity of an exciting experience in China without significant financial cost to themselves.
Duration
Class Hours
Starting Dates
Chinese Levels
Accommodations
Beijing
4 months or longer
30-40 hours a week
Anytime
All
All (For students in teaching-only programs,
Shanghai
4 months or longer
30-40 hours a week
Anytime
All
All (For students in teaching-only programs,
Kunming
4 months or longer
30-40 hours a week
Anytime
All
All (For students in teaching-only programs,
housing must be arranged separately.)
housing must be arranged separately.)
housing must be arranged separately.)
19
Martial Arts While it is a myth that all Chinese people “know Kung-Fu”, China is still the birth place of martial arts and the progenitor of many styles that have spread worldwide such as Kung-Fu, Wushu, Tai-Chi, Tai-ji Quan, and their cousins Tae Kwon Do, Judo, Jiu-jitsu and much more. For thousands of years, the martial arts have been a mainstay of Chinese culture. The folklore around martial arts in China is legendary, as the most famous Chinese literature such as “Journey to the West” and “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” involves weapon wielding warriors. In fact, China’s greatest cultural hero may very well be Huo Yuanjia, portrayed by Jet Li in “Fearless,” who defended Chinese honor during the age of foreign dominance by defeating fighters in the ring from around the world including an American boxing champion and a Russian wrestling champion. Another great martial arts hero includes Wong Fei Hong, also played on the screen by Jet Li as well as Jackie Chan. Wong’s martial arts exploits and skill are so legendary that over 113 movies and television series have included him as the protagonist. Simply put, the martial arts are an entrenched part of Chinese culture and tradition. With the additional popularity of Chinese-made martial arts action flicks starring Chinese superstars such as Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan and Jet Li, these folk tale legends have found their way around the world, making arcane styles and schools of martial arts iconic such as Wu-Tang, Shao-Lin and Kung-Fu. Before the industrial boom of the late 20th century, the martial arts were China’s greatest export, outside of tea and silk of course. Nonetheless, for decades, people have traveled from all over the world to study martial arts at the
source. Through CSA, you too can learn from the masters. Any Kung-Fu flick junkie will tell you that the martial arts are not just about hand to hand combat or playing with nunchuks, classical Chinese forms of martial arts encompass a broad spectrum of mental and physical discipline. Learning martial arts is about training the body and spirit. It’s a philosophical as well as physical exercise. Serious martial arts students learn not only how to physically best an opponent, but also how to discipline and control oneself. CSA offers martial arts programs with all different styles, for all different levels, fitting any schedule. For those looking to train with the best, we offer programs at China’s best martial arts schools such as the Beijing Sport University, where Jet Li learned his craft. At these intensive martial arts programs, students study with a master 2.5 hours a day, 5 days a week. Classes are offered in styles such as wushu, taijiquan, and chongquan, at all different levels. Certain classes focus on form and technique for competition, while others deal with more sparring and combat. Students looking for a part-time hobby during time off from studying are placed in private martial arts academies, where classes can be taught in evenings, afternoons and weekends depending upon your schedule. For more information, please inquire at info@ chinastudyabroad.org.
Cities
Duration
Class Hours
Starting Dates
Chinese Levels
Accommodations
Sports University
Beijing, Shanghai and Kunming
9 weeks/ 1 Semester
12.5 hours a week
July 1, Mar. 1 & Sept. 10
All
All
Martial Arts Academy
Beijing, Shanghai and Kunming
Any length
2-5 hours a week
Anytime
All
All
20 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
High School
photo crediT: (STUDENT GROUP) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
At China Study Abroad we believe that the benefits of a global education should not be limited to university students. With this in mind, CSA now offers programs tailored to high school students between the ages of 13 and 17. Speaking Mandarin is an essential tool for people looking to succeed in a globalized world. Enrolling in the CSA high school program gives ambitious, young students a leg up in learning an incredibly difficult, but increasingly essential skill. Because high school students are limited by their school schedule, CSA offers flexible program start dates and program lengths during the fall and spring semesters as well as numerous summer programs. We offer a wide assortment of courses to fit everyone’s needs. They range from being as short as one week for students looking to whet their linguistic palate during school holidays, to year-long programs for students taking a gap year, and everything in between. Many high school students join CSA during their summer holidays, for their first-time experiences of living abroad and taking university-level courses. The CSA high school program offers the unique opportunity for gifted and ambitious high school students to take challenging university-level courses. Many high school students are eager for a taste of the college experience -- CSA gives these students the chance to see what college is like in China! Very few college students have the opportunity to study abroad during college, let alone while still in high school. This is the perfect program for mature and adventurous high school students looking to add some valuable life experience while impressing college
admissions boards everywhere. By enrolling in the CSA high school program, students can even get a head start on their college careers because most language programs include transferable university credit and official transcripts, depending upon the duration of study. Students enrolled in the high school language program are given the option of living in campus dorms or with a family homestay, which includes breakfast and dinner every weekday. As with all CSA programs, students will receive 24-hour customer service, regular supervision, emergency care and insurance, a mobile phone with local SIM card, fun activities on the weekends, and a welcome pack. Admissions into the high school programs are significantly more competitive, as applicants need to demonstrate a high-level of maturity and academic ability. For a fun vacation, please check the travel section. Only high school students prepared to take the early leap into college life should apply. Additional requirements such as a personal essay or recommendation letters may be necessary for admission, depending upon school and length of study.
Schools
Duration
Class Hours
Chinese Levels
Accomodations
Placement Services
Application deadlines
Beijing
BLCU and BMA
1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, Semester, Summer, Year
4 hours daily, 20 hours a week
All
Family Homestay & Dormitory
n/a
Year Round
Shanghai
Fudan University & Jiaotong University
1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, Semester, Summer, Year
4 hours daily, 20 hours a week
All
Family Homestay & Dormitory
n/a
Year Round 21
Youth Adventure Camp China Study Abroad’s Summer Adventure Camps combine the excitement of traveling to two of China’s most famous cities with an intensive Mandarin learning program. Students aged 9-16 are welcome to join one of our 3-week programs held each summer. On each program students take Mandarin lessons in Beijing for two and a half weeks and then travel to the ancient Chinese capital of Xi’an. In just three weeks students have the opportunity to rapidly develop their language skills in addition to making friends with other young people from around the world. CSA’s Youth Adventure Camps are the ideal way for students to receive a comprehensive introduction to the Chinese language, culture and way of life, while also having the time of their lives!
Classes Each summer, China Study Abroad offers 3-week adventure camps in Beijing. During these three weeks, students take part in daily beginning Chinese lessons. These Chinese two-lessons are intensive, emphasizing correct speech and pronunciation, reading and writing, and real-world application. We design the course ourselves to ensure that each student is receiving the best education possible. After their Chinese lessons, students take a fun Introduction to Chinese Culture class that teaches basics in Kung-Fu, Calligraphy, Tai-Chi, Cooking, Chinese Music, Chinese Needlework and Crafts, and Chinese History.
Activities
Last, but most definitely not least, on the last 3 days of the adventure camp, students will be taken to the ancient city of Xi’an to see the Terracotta Warriors and the home of Imperial China for thousands of years! They’ll see the old city walls and the bell towers, the great mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, and much more. On the tour, they will also receive a guided tour detailing the history of these remarkable archaeological sites and a culture and civilization that has lasted the millennia. This is all included in the camp price along with 3 meals a day.
Safety While the program is fashioned to be an educational and fun experience for students, the main priority is the well-being of
our students. With that in mind, China Study Abroad has not contracted out any of its services, unlike our competitors. All classes will take place at the China Study Abroad Mandarin academy or local universities. As always, our teachers are pre-screened and selected to ensure professionalism and skill. Our camp counselors, who will be with the students 24 hours a day and sleep on-site at the camp dormitories, are experienced and responsible. The student accommodations also include 24-hour security. Students will be given cell phones so that they can be reached 24 hours a day, and China Study Abroad staff will always be available to speak with whenever needed. All China Study Abroad participants receive the StudentCare Plus! insurance coverage as part of the camp fee. Any possible medical emergencies will be promptly addressed and taken care of at international hospitals in Beijing. Our 24hour staff is experienced in dealing with any and all medical issues that may arise. If students have any specialized medical needs such as daily medication, counselors will see to it that their needs are addressed on a daily basis. For more detailed information, set itinerary, and program fees please see www.chinastudyabroad.org/youthadventurecamp .aspx or inquire at info@chinastudyabroad.org
Schools
Duration
Class Hours
Starting Dates
Chinese Levels
Accomodations
Placement Services
Application deadlines
Beijing
Beijing Mandarin Academy
3 weeks
Daily 4 hrs. Mandarin, 1.5 hrs. Cultural Class
June 3, July 3
Beginner*
Hotel
n/a
May 30
Xi’an
Jiaotong University
3 weeks
Daily 4 hrs. Mandarin, 1.5 hrs. Cultural Class
June 3, July 3
Beginner*
Hotel
n/a
May 30
22 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
*Beginner: 0 - 40 hours studied, 0 - 500 characters
photo crediT: (STUDENT GROUP) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
When class is out, the fun begins! Students will be taken on excursions throughout Beijing and its outlying areas such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Summer Palace, and the Lama Temple. Other activities include hiking at the Fragrant Mountain, a night at the Peking Opera, a special Peking Duck Dinner, eating scorpion, starfish and other oddities at the Wangfujing night market, a rickshaw ride through the old hutongs, shopping at the Silk Market and the Pearl Market, and of course a camping trip on the Great Wall of China! Also included will be fun activities such as swimming at the local parks, barbecues, and picnic outings.
Business Program In just 30 years, China’s market-oriented reforms have unleashed the economic potential of a nation with over a billion people, generating economic growth never before seen in modern history. China’s dramatic transformation has had a profound impact not only on China, but on the world. In addition to lifting hundreds of millions of its citizens out of poverty, China has become the world’s 3rd largest economy with few signs of slowing down. Much like the international corporations such as Google, Microsoft, and Intel that have invested heavily in China, many students hope to jump on the financial wave by learning Mandarin and conducting business in China. None can afford to overlook China’s huge consumer market and its formidable industries which provide goods for the entire globe. However, doing business in China is not simple; there are complicated local customs, language barriers, bureaucracy and many other hurdles which must be overcome. To this end, we have created our dual business and Mandarin learning program. This course is essential for individual business men and women. Anyone who has done business in China knows that knowledge of Mandarin is a great asset, and with our business program we will provide you with an insight into how some of China’s most successful local and foreign businesses conduct themselves and prosper. Students in this program are enrolled in Mandarin
language classes at the local university of their choice, such as Tsinghua University or Peking University, and will also attend business lectures provided by professors specializing in business and economics. These lectures are centered on doing business in China, from which students learn everything from business-focused Mandarin to in-depth analysis of the Chinese economy and marketplace, as well as culturally-specific business practices. This holistic approach includes tours of Chinese factories, corporations, and attendance at business seminars and networking events with business organizations such as the American Chamber of Commerce in China. After enrolling in CSA’s Business and Mandarin program, students will be equipped for a future in Chinese business. Students enrolled in CSA’s business programs still receive CSA’s internship placement services, free of charge. Many students enroll in our business program and then proceed to do an internship with a Chinese company afterwards, rounding out their business experience in China.
Courses and Degree Programs In addition to our dual Mandarin and business program, we also offer business specific courses at certain universities. These class offerings are limited by time and location. One example is our Chinese Economy summer course offered at Fudan University in Shanghai. The main topics include the Chinese stock market, RMB reform, China’s trading partners and laws, marketing in China as well as human resource management in China. The class is taught by the faculty of Fudan University. Spots are limited for these specialized courses. Please contact us at info@chinastudyabroad.org for availability. For those looking for more traditional business degrees or MBAs, we offer joint business and language programs at Tsinghua University and Qingdao University. A high level of Chinese-speaking is required, and the programs are very competitive. Depending upon the program, students may be required to participate in a full application process, including but not limited to, a completed undergraduate degree, curriculum vitae, official university transcript, a recent GMAT score, letters of recommendation, as well as personal essays. Please contact us at info@chinastudyabroad.org for more information.
Schools
Duration
Class Hours
Starting Dates
Chinese Levels
Accomo- Placement dations Services
Application deadlines
Beijing
PKU
Semester
Daily 4 hrs. Mandarin, 1.5 hrs. Chinese Society
Sept. 3, Mar. 3
All
Hotel
n/a
Aug. 15, Feb. 15
Xi’an
Northwestern University
Semester
Daily 4 hrs. Mandarin, 1.5 hrs. Chinese Society
Sept. 3, Mar. 3
All
Hotel
n/a
Aug. 15, Feb. 15
Shanghai
Jiaotong University
Semester
Daily 4 hrs. Mandarin, 1.5 hrs. Chinese Society
Sept. 3, Mar. 3
All
Hotel
n/a
Aug. 15, Feb. 15 23
Corporate Programs Business is booming in China. As the world’s 3rd largest economy, China has positioned itself as one of the world’s best investments. However, as many corporations have discovered, getting a good return on investment in China is not a simple task. Worries over economic overheating, environmental concerns, intellectual property rights, lack of transparency, tight regulatory control of the economy by the central government, corruption, and over-speculation of the stock market by Chinese investors has many companies wary to plunge into this booming market. While China’s economic gains confirm that the potential rewards outweigh the risks in most cases, the question of how to mitigate those risks remains.
lengths, and start dates that can accommodate any request. Private courses are available now for novice to advanced Mandarin abilities.
Corporate Specific Education To meet corporate needs, China Study Abroad locates industry experts that have operated in the Chinese market for years to give lectures and workshops. Textile manufacturers are taken on tours of Chinese factories, observe delivery methods, and meet factory foremen. Tourism firms are taken on site inspections, discuss with hotel managers, and meet with representatives from Chinese tourism contractors. From production, delivery, quality control to overall infrastructure, every aspect of the industry will be available for analysis.
To that end, companies have utilized China Study Abroad’s tailor made corporate programs to educate their company employees to make informed decisions about entering the Chinese market. While keeping with a foundation of Mandarin language learning and lectures and workshops on foreign investment, China Study Abroad designs industry and trade specific short and long-term curricula to meet corporate goals. Knowledge is a corporation’s most powerful tool, and China Study Abroad offers companies the inside track on learning how business is done in China.
To buttress these industry-specific workshops and information sessions are lectures from mainstays of foreign investment in China. Representatives from venture capitalist firms, heads of start up corporations, corporate consultants well-versed in the complex Chinese laws concerning foreign investment, environmentalists, and human rights advocates will all be available for lectures, questions and networking. Clients will receive a broad-based program of study on conducting business in China on top of their industryspecific needs.
Language
China Study Abroad’s corporate program gives clients a unique opportunity to research their market niche, learn industry-specific Mandarin, and develop a fuller comprehension of the Chinese economy before breaking into the Chinese market.
To understand the complexities of the Chinese market, it is essential that corporate representatives not only speak Mandarin, but they must utilize industry-specific language. Whether the focus is on finance, media, import/export, IT, tourism or other industry, China Study Abroad uses its expertise to plan a course that achieves any industry sensitive language goal. According to the client’s unique objectives, China Study Abroad is able to place emphasis on different aspects of the four communication macroskills: reading, writing, listening and speaking. The China Study Abroad approach to teaching Mandarin highlights interaction and student involvement, ensuring students not only learn, but also enjoy learning. For more traditional language learning, China Study Abroad also offers enrollment at preeminent universities throughout China. Geographically specific needs can easily be addressed as we offer courses in over thirteen Chinese cities. With individualized corporate attention and differentiated course curriculums based on industry sector, program participants can expect rapid progression in their Mandarin language skills. China Study Abroad offers flexible class hours, program
24 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Because of the highly specific design of this program and additional time needed to organize workshops catering to client needs, applicants must apply at least two months in advance. For more information and a sample itinerary, please see www.chinastudyabroad.org/corporate.aspx.
HK/Macau & Foreign-Born Chinese China Study Abroad has tailor-made a program to address a growing population of students for whom normative Mandarin language classes for beginners are inadequate. These students are advanced beginners; they are either native English speakers with a strong basic understanding of oral Mandarin or speak another dialect of Chinese such as the Cantonese, Kejia, or Fujian dialects. To cater to these students’ specific needs, China Study Abroad has created the Foreign-Born Chinese Program and the Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan program.
Foreign-Born Chinese This course is designed for students who: 1) were born in a nonChinese-speaking country but were raised in a home where Mandarin was spoken and possess little or no reading and writing skills in Chinese; or 2) were born in a Chinese-speaking country and received zero or limited formal education in that country up to the second grade. The course teaches both pinyin and characters, introduces functional vocabulary, and provides a systematic review of grammar. Courses are specifically designed for advanced beginners who have weak character recognition but already speak fluent conversational Mandarin. Course textbooks and curriculum are specifically designed with targeted students in mind. This accelerated semester-long course will bring students to a Chinese literacy rate that matches their fluent speaking vocabulary. Students will also be prepared to take higher level university Mandarin courses which match their already advanced oral speaking for which they were previously unqualified. Schools
Duration
Class Hours
Starting Dates
Beijing Mandarin Academy
1 Semester
Daily, 4 classes a day
September 12, March 3
Beijing
Chinese Levels Fluent Speaking Mandarin, Character Recognition 0 – 400 words
Accommodations Standard Apt., Luxury Apt., Hotel, Family Homestay, Young Professional Homestay
Placement Services Internship, Teaching, Volunteer
Application deadlines August 20, February 13
photo credit: (TOP) Matthew Bouchard, www.flickr.com/photos/mtbouchard/1554299622
Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan This course is designed for students who speak a non-Mandarin dialect of Chinese. In particular, this course prepares students looking to take the Putonghua Shuiping Ceshi (PSC) and Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) Tests, which are nationally standardized test that gauge the Mandarin abilities. The PSC is designed specifically with individuals from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan in mind. Scoring well on these tests is essential to entering China’s top universities or finding employment with Chinese companies. Course curriculum emphasizes phonetics, listening comprehension, conversation, intensive reading, and grammar. The course aim is proficiency in Mandarin speaking, with students eventually achieving an oral vocabulary that matches their advanced writing and reading skills. There is also a 4-week PSC preparatory class available.
Beijing
Schools
Duration
Class Hours
Starting Dates
Chinese Levels
Beijing Mandarin Academy and BLCU
Semester, 3 weeks
Daily, 4-6 classes
September 12, March 3
Fluent nonMandarin Chinese Dialect, Character Recognition 1500+
Accommodations Standard Apt., Luxury Apt., Hotel, Family Homestay, Young Professional Homestay
Placement Services Internship, Teaching, Volunteer
Application deadlines August 20, February 13
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Volunteer program China Study Abroad (CSA) is very proud to present its China volunteer program. Whether your interest is in human rights, environmentalism, teaching in rural areas or poverty alleviation, CSA can place you in the correct environment for you to make the most of your passion and individual skill-set. In general, most volunteers are placed in English-teaching positions throughout China. Speaking English is a great commodity in China but is unavailable to the impoverished. However, for those of you with passion for specific projects, and with the resume to match, we would be happy to place you with an organization working in your particular area of interest. We have placed students with various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and agencies for human rights, environmental conservation, and poverty alleviation. Whether you have a weekend or a summer, we will find the service project that best fits your needs. These positions can be highly competitive, but we do successfully place our students as interns at various NGOs and charitable organizations. Our volunteer programs are very flexible. Many volunteers choose to study in one of the cities serviced by CSA and then take a trip to the more rural areas to volunteer in between semesters, during national holidays, or after they’ve completed their studies. Also, CSA offers various opportunities to volunteer during your stay in China, even if your main priority is learning Mandarin. One such activity is the Beijing tree-planting program. Many of our summer Mandarin students also signed up to volunteer for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. We believe that one of the best ways to improve one’s Chinese is through cross-cultural interaction, which is promoted through service. Those of you looking solely looking to volunteer must fill out an application and pay the application fee. After that, any fees or possible stipends vary depending upon the agency or organization that you are placed with. If you do a dual volunteer and Mandarin learning program with CSA, you will only be responsible for paying the Mandarin learning portion, placement with a volunteer program will be free of charge.
Golog Community School
Volunteers in the Golog program will be expected to commit a minimum of three months. Their responsibilities will include teaching remedial classes in English, Math, hygiene and health, basic art such as music, crafts and Mandarin at the community school as well as the local CSA-sponsored orphanage, while also working on various human resource tasks. This includes community outreach, field work and research, as well as efforts to seek more funding and support for the program from local and international charitable organizations. Volunteers will be provided with basic food and housing in Golog, but are responsible for their travel fees and any extra living expenses. 26 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
photo crediTS: (ALL) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
Our featured volunteer program is at the CSA Community School in Golog, Qinghai Province. Golog is a small town on the Tibetan Plateau in 14 hours south of Xining, the capital city of Qinghai, by bus. It is a very remote rural and impoverished area, historically inhabited by ethnic Tibetans. There is also a sizable Hui (Chinese Muslim) population, as well as Han Chinese. As of September of 2007, there have been various ethnic clashes between the Muslim and traditionally Buddhist Tibetan population. The goal of the CSA Community School is to promote community and cultural understanding through education. To that end, the school provides free classes to all members of the community, regardless of age, ethnicity and class. Headed by famed human rights activist Wenzhuo Hou, the CSA Community School in Golog serves an important role in this volatile population that goes largely ignored by the media and other charitable organizations.
internship Tapping into the massive potential of China’s growing economic market is a top priority for many of our students. While studying abroad and learning Mandarin is an important first step, our more ambitious students are looking to make headway into a career. Moreover, many organizations based in China are searching for the next wave of bright recruits. To that end, China Study Abroad offers our internship placement program, which acts as a bridge between these two parties. CSA’s vast network within major Chinese cities allows us to place our students in various diverse and exciting positions. For those interested in business, we have placed interns in multinational as well as Chinese companies specializing in software, sales, venture capital, marketing, and more. Dependent upon the student’s level of qualification and experience, these companies may offer paid employment. Even unpaid, interns gain invaluable experience working abroad that stands out on any resume. For those looking to work in the non-profit sector, CSA connects students with numerous internship positions within Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) involved with a broad array of charitable causes such as human rights, environmentalism, public health, non-profit law, and discrimination. These internships are rarely paid, but offer an essential service to the public and a unique experience for interns to better understand Chinese society and the toll of rapid modernization. Internships also vary based upon available work hours. More challenging and lucrative positions often require working full time. Other internships only require a part time commitment, but rest assured that all internships will present their unique challenges. Many internship positions also require a minimum time commitment of 3 months or more. CSA will guarantee interviews for internship positions, but employment is dependent upon the quality of the applicant’s resume/CV, skill-set, and interview. Competition for positions can be fierce, but rest assured that CSA’s Chinese-based staff will do their utmost to find an internship catering to your particular areas of interest, time constraints, Chinese-speaking level, and expertise. Students in CSA Mandarin language programs for three months or longer are offered free internship placement.
Those seeking direct placement without a language program are required to pay an upfront $500 USD fee, which includes all other benefits of being in the CSA program, including airport pick up and drop off, welcome pack, orientation, and 24-hour emergency service. Because many internships may require a minimum Chinese proficiency, we suggest that students enroll in a language learning program first in order to satisfy this requirement as well allowing for an adjustment period. Previous students have enrolled in summer or semester language programs before taking on full-time internship positions for another 3 months or longer. Undoubtedly, CSA’s internship program offers an excellent opportunity for those seeking a well-rounded experience while studying abroad in China.
Duration
Chinese Levels
Accommodations
Beijing
Summer, Semester & Year
All
All*
*For students in internship only programs, housing must be arranged separately.
Shanghai
Summer, Semester & Year
All
All*
*For students in internship only programs, housing must be arranged separately.
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What st
udents are saying
r. meste d to e s a r ke ing fo was shoc the j i e B at ing in edible, I w gre ng me o ed liv h r v c o d n l an s i elpi “I ty wa ern it was SA for h great i c e d C Th w mo hanks to ncing this “ o h e se rie o! . T ife is n and expe andarin to l t h g i i n M it of ettled get s earned a b e, RI L videnc o r city. P f r o
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28 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
What students are saying “CSA & its staff members were there from the very start. Whether it was accommodations, visa issues, school registration or setting up weekend trips to experience the sights and sounds of Beijing, CSA handled everything with professional competence and efficiency. Overall, CSA gave me a summer that will never be forgotten.” — Denise Tam, 25 • Toronto, Canada • Summer Mandarin Program
“CSA was much more than what I expected. I have never seen a study program that has so many options in where you want to study, or live. The staff is great! They are always very helpful, and nice, whether they are working or not. While I was in China, CSA took care of everything for me, and even if I had a question, I would just call one of the staff and get an answer right away. CSA even has fun weekend outings around the city, activities for everyone, and trips to other parts of China. I recommend this program for everyone at all ages!!” — Liang Cheng, 17 • High School Program • United States
“The simple fact is that CSA is China done easy. CSA is a wonderful and easy place to learn one of the most difficult languages. Coming to China is difficult, and learning to speak Chinese is even more difficult, but with CSA in charge that only the difficult thing that the student has to do is open the and study.” — Manuel Aguilar, 21 • Summer Study and Travel • San Salvador, El Salvador
“CSA was invaluable to me out here. There is no way I could have made it out here without them (especially in the first few weeks). I also made some life-long friends. Would recommend CSA to anyone.”
photo creditS: (ALL) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
— Nick Criado-Perez, 26 • Mandarin Intensive Yearlong Program • London, England
“After comparing with my friends that went to China with other organizations, I am sure that CSA is the best one. Other organizations do not offer aid 24 hours to the day nor do they have people guide them. They helped me everything that I needed, and even helped me when my sister came to me to visit for a few days. Their main goal is that the students are doing well and having a good experience. Studying and living in China can be difficult at times, but with the amiable, patient and funny staff, CSA made my experience in China unforgettable.” — Jessica Pedraza, 20 • Intensive Mandarin Study • Miami, Florida
“I thought CSA did a good job with providing the accommodation. They were right there when I needed to be picked up from the airport and made me feel comfortable and eager to start my Chinese courses. I stayed with a host family and I couldn’t ask for a better one. I’ve done home stay before and I thought they were quite nice. But my Chinese host family really out did themselves. I definitely have a lovely place to come back to whenever I’m in Beijing.” - Yorik Thebaud, 18 • Undergraduate • Port Au Prince, Haiti • Summer Mandarin Studies
“Overall the level of service was good, and the staff members were always cheerful and polite when I had any requests/problems. My apartment was fine: clean, modern and everything worked. I had no complaints with it. Any problems that did occur were quickly rectified by the staff.” - Richard Sayce, 22 • Professional • Cheshire, United Kingdom • Martial Arts and Mandarin Program
What The Pros Say “If you want to go to China to study, or just to learn the language, China Study Abroad is a great place to start! They have internships, business classes and volunteer programs available all over China.” - Student Traveler, Trusted by over 1,000 study abroad offices across the US • April, 2007
“China Study Abroad offers unique and affordable options for total immersion into Chinese culture, language, and way of life.” - Language Magazine: The Journal of Communication & Education • January, 2007
testimonials, visit www.chinastudyabroad.org! t n e d u t s e r For mo 29
Tailor Made & Group Tours At China Study Abroad we understand the individual nature of our students and their needs. Rather than restrict our program participants or try to push them toward courses that would make our job easier, we work with the individual to design an appropriate program. We give you the opportunity of tailoring your time in China to suit your needs and wants. China Study Abroad offers our clients any type of housing, in any city or cities, any language level, any curriculum specific program, at any time, and for any duration. Mix and match from our various programs, locations, accommodation and schools to find the exact study abroad experience that you desire in your time frame. China Study Abroad staff will work tirelessly to meet your specific time, location, financial and learning requirements. Past students have requested to do programs in multiple cities, incorporate travel, and have arrangements made to in a certain location for a time-specific event such as the Qingdao Oktoberfest, the Harbin Ice Festival, and the Women’s World Cup. With our flexibility, expertise and vast resources, students can study in the dual language and business program for a semester in Beijing, intern with a corporation in Shanghai, backpack through Tibet, and volunteer in the rural countryside. China Study Abroad will make all arrangements so that students can concentrate on their cultural and Mandarin learning. Tell us your ideal study abroad experience, and we will make it happen!
Groups If your group has a pre-designed program and itinerary in mind, China Study Abroad staff will work tirelessly to accommodate your specifications. Past group programs have included participants that required translators, detailed travel plans, conventions, and particular curriculum. China Study Abroad is capable of designing programs to fit those of traveling musical groups, scholars interested in Chinese history, corporations, and Chinese cultural hobbyists of all kinds. Let China Study Abroad design your group’s China experience.
Along with your particular design, group participants still benefit from all the benefits of studying with China Study Abroad such as insurance, 24-hour service, CSA welcome
All Cities
pack, and free internship and teaching placement services. We ensure that all tailor-made programs will meet China Study Abroad’s high standards. If we can’t do it right, we won’t do it at all. Because of the highly specific design of this program and additional time needed to organize and design program details, clients must apply at least two months in advance. For more information and a sample itinerary, please see www.chinastudyabroad.org/tailormade and group .aspx.
Schools
Duration
Class Hours
Starting Dates
Chinese Levels
Accomodations
Placement Services
Application deadlines
All
Any length
Any length
Any time
All levels
Any
All
Any time
30 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
photo crediT: (ALL, BOTH PAGES) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
China Study Abroad will design your group’s accommodations, travel plans, transportation, meeting centers, lectures, workshops, activities, excursions, research trips and site inspections. Let China Study Abroad’s vast resources, experience in the industry, and skilled staff benefit your group. We can meet any time, financial and size requirement. (Minimum group size seven people).
Additional travel For those looking to do additional sightseeing through China before or after completing a CSA program, or just looking to do some traveling, CSA offers discounted guided tours. Listed below are just a few of the many tours offered. The minimum group requirement is four passengers. Tour guides are available in English and Spanish. For more information, additional destinations, travel itineraries, updated prices, or customized tour packages, please visit: www.chinastudyabroad.org/travel_agent.aspx or inquire at info@chinastudyabroad.org.
ESSENTIAL CHINA 8 DAYS
Tour Fee: $1199/dbl & up (2008) Land Only $699 & up (2008)
Includes: Airfare from Los Angeles, deluxe hotel, meals (as specified), tours admission fee, transportation, and English-speaking tour guide. Excludes: Airport tax ($295), Chinese visa fee ($130) & service tips.
DAY 1 USA-Beijing: Fly transpacific from your hometown city.
DAY 2 Beijing: Upon arrival in historic Beijing, you will be transferred to hotel. Rest of the day free at leisure.
DAY 3 Beijing-Tiananmen Square: We will start exploring the Imperial wonders of this majestic city with a visit to the golden-roofed Forbidden City, a huge compound of palaces, pavilions, and courtyards, where the Emperors of Ming & Qing Dynasties lived. Nearby is the awesome Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world. Afternoon visit to the beautiful Imperial Summer Palaces, where lovely pagodas, temples & galleries are situated around Kunming Lake. (B/L/D) DAY 4 Beijing-The Great Wall: Today we tour the
stretches over 3,000 miles and is the only man-made structure visible from the Moon. A walk along the undulating wall offers unforgettable and spectacular vistas. En route back to Beijing, visit the Ming Tombs, burial sites for 13 of the 16 Ming Dynasty Emperors. The underground palaces house the lavish wealth of the Emperors. (B/L/D)
DAY 5 Beijing- Shanghai: Morning at leisure. Fly to Shanghai, China’s largest city and the so-called “Paris of the East.” Upon arrival, we will tour the Bund- the famous riverfront promenade, the tranquil Yu Garden, and the Temple of the Jade Buddha. (B/D)
DAY 6 Shanghai-Tongli-Suzhou: Morning visit to the ancient town on the water, Tongli. Dated back 1,000 years ago, the charming town was built amidst crisscrossing rivers and lakes. Timelessly, the simplicity and antiquity of the architecture remains all the more attractive. Continue to tour Suzhou, Garden City of China viewing beautiful pavilions and bridges. (B/D) DAY 7 Suzhou-Shanghai: Return to Shanghai in the morning, rest of the day free at leisure to adventure this lively metropolis. You can walk around Old Town where shops lined up along the narrow and winding alleys sell authentic arts and crafts. (B) DAY 8 Shanghai-USA: Enjoy the morning free time for last minute shopping or personal activity. Transfer to Airport in the afternoon to fly home. (B)
landmark of China-The Great Wall. Built to thwart the barbarian invasions two thousand years ago, the Great Wall
31
Additional travel (continued) 6 DAYS SILK ROAD EXPEDITION
Tour Fee: $1969/dbl (Apr-Oct 2008)
Includes: Airfare from Beijing/Shanghai–Urumqi-Dunghuang-Beijing/Shanghai, hotel (4*), meals, tours, transportation, and English-speaking local tour guide.
Tourists ride camels at Mingsha Shan (Singing Sand Dunes) in Dunhuang, China.
DAY 5 Dunhuang: Morning tour to the magnificent art treasures of Mogao Caves. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its grottoes, totaling over 500 caves, contain 2,415 colored statues and 45,000 square meters of murals, which show an uninterrupted history of Buddhist art over a period of more than 1,000 years. Rest of the day free at leisure to explore. (B/L/D)
DAY 6 Dunhuang-Beijing/Shanghai-Home: TransDAY 1 Beijing-Urumqi: We begin our exciting adven- fer to airport for your flight home or to next destination. (B) ture to silk road with a flight to the remote Chinese Turkestan, now known as Uygur Autonomous Region. Upon arrival in Urumqi, the capital city of Xinjiang, you will be greeted by a local professional tour guide. Transfer to hotel. Rest of the day free at leisure. (B/D)
DAY 2 Urumqi: Morning excursion to the pristine Lake of Heaven. Located in the shadow of the Tian Shan range, and surrounded by grassy meadows, dense forests and jagged mountain, the lake water is as blue as sapphire. Cruise on the lake and enjoy the coolness of the high altitude and the beautiful scenery. Afternoon, visit Xinjiang Museum- known for its well-preserved mummies and numerous collections of ancient artifacts. (B/L/D) DAY 3 Urumqi-Turpan: Follow the steps of Marco Polo to arrive in the fascinating Turpan, the oasis known as Fiery Land. Turpan lies 505 feet below sea level, and produces some of the world’s most spectacular grapes by means of a vast underground network of canals that are fed by the melting snow from nearby mountains. Visit the exotic bazaar to shop for eye-catching handmade shawls, Cossack arts and crafts, plentiful delicious sweet treats await you there. (B/L/D)
YANGTZE RIVER CRUISES Tour Fee: $1295/dbl (Jan/Feb/Mar/Nov/Dec) $1395/dbl (Apr/May/Oct) $1495/dbl (Jun/Jul/Aug/Sep)
Includes: Round trip air inclusive from Beijing or Shanghai, to cruise embarkation & disembarkation port cities, Victoria Cruise ship (5*), tours, transportation, meals, one night hotel in Beijing or Shanghai (4-5*), and English-speaking local tour guide. The Yangtze River is China’s longest river (and the third largest in the world). The aptly named “River of Heaven” gracefully winds 4,000 miles through the majestic gorges, the cloud-covered mountains, thick green valleys, the Three Gorges Dam and towns of ancient and modern. Cruising the fabled River provides a window into the soul and spirit of China.
DAY 1 Beijing/Shanghai - Chongqing - Embark Victoria Cruise: Fly to Chongqing and transfer to pier to board the luxurious Victoria Cruise ship adventuring down the mighty Yangtze River for the next three nights.
DAY 4 Turpan-Urumqi-Dunhuang: Motorcoach re- DAY 2 Yangtze River Cruise: Depends on the local turn to Urumqi and fly to Dunhuang. Located on the edge of the desert with spectacular sand dunes as street landmarks, Dunhuang has endured more than 2000 years and still holds a bright spot in the desert. Take a camel ride around the city and climb up 250- meter high sand dunes of Singing Sand Mountain, where you can enjoy bird’s eye view of the desert and experience the roaring sound of moving sands when sliding downhill. (B/L/D)
32 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
river conditions, today we either visit Fengdu, or Shibaozhai. Nicknamed as “Ghost City”, Fengdu has numerous statues of devils and ghosts that roam the afterworld. Shibaozhai is famous for its 12-story tall wooden pagoda, which was built 400 years ago without using a single nail. (B/L/D) On board activities include a wide variety of informative lectures, painting demonstrations, acupuncture demonstrations, Tai Chi, Chinese or western massages and facials, as (RIGHT, BOTTOM) Registan Square in Samarkand, on the ancient silk road - Uzbekistan.
well as lessons in Mandarin language, calligraphy and silk kite making. Nightly entertainment includes traditional fashion shows, colorful cultural presentations, and traditional Chinese music. Or, enjoy feature films, HBO and BBC broadcasting in your own cabin.
DAY 3 Yangtze River Cruise: Today we will navigate through the most exciting journey on Yangtze River: the famous Three Gorges. First is the shortest, narrowest and yet most visually dramatic Qutang Gorge. Continue to pass Wu Gorge, known for its serene beauty. Before passing through the longest and deepest of the three: Xiling Gorge, take a detour to beautiful Lesser Gorges via smaller vessels. Tonight we sail through the Three Gorges ship locks. (B/L/D) DAY 4 Yangtze River Cruise-Yichang-Beijing/ Shanghai: Morning excursion tour to Three Gorges Dam Site. The Dam construction is the largest of its kind in the world, and once completed in 2009, will change the landscape of the Yangtze River Valley forever. Our river journey ends in Yichang, transfer to airport for flight to Beijing/ Shanghai. Airport to hotel transfer is provided upon arrival. (B/L)
DAY 5 Beijing/Shanghai: Transfer to airport for flight home or your next destination. (B)
Tibet prayers praying around a temple in winter morning, taken in Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture.
DAY 3 Lhasa: Today is free to explore this holy city. (B) DAY 4 Lhasa-Hometown: Transfer to airport for flight home or your next destination. (B)
GUILIN
TIBET
Tour Fee: $695/person/dbl & up ( Land Only)
Tour Fee: $795.00/person/dbl
Includes: Hotel (4*), tours, transportation, meals and English-speaking local tour guide.
Includes: Round trip air inclusive from Beijing or Shanghai, hotel (5*), tours, transportation, meals and Englishspeaking local tour guide.
DAY 1 Arrive Lhasa: Fly to Lhasa, the capital city of mystical Buddhist kingdom of Tibet. The rest of the day is free to adjust to the altitude of one of the world’s highest plateaus-about 12,000 ft. above sea level. (D)
DAY 2 Lhasa: Today’s highlight is the tour of Potala Palace, former living quarters of the Dalai Lama and the center of the Tibetan government., Its massive 1,000 room structure towers over this mountain city. Also visit one of Tibet’s oldest shrines, Jokhang Temple and the famous Barkhor Market where you may shop local authentic items. Afternoon tour of Summer Palace, built by the seventh Dalai Lama in the 18th century. (B/L/D)
DAY 1 Beijing/Shanghai to Guilin: Fly to picturesque Guilin from Beijing or Shanghai. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by local professional tour guide. Transfer to hotel. Rest of the day free at leisure.
DAY 2 Guilin: Located on the banks of the Li River, Guilin is renown for its unique limestone landscape and serene natural beauty. Take a scenic cruise down the meandering Li River; continue to tour the famous Reed Flute Cave to see some unusual stalactite and stalagmite formations. (B/L/D)
DAY 3 Guilin: Transfer to airport for flight to next destination. (B)
***Land Service Only: $400.00/person/dbl 33
beijing A truly remarkable sight would be to look down at Beijing from the sky above over the last 2,000 years. One would witness imperial palaces and fortresses being built and destroyed time and time again. In the 15th century and late 17th, one would see the largest city in the world, its empire reaching over the entire eastern globe, even sending emissaries to the Americas. Conquering armies would breach the city walls, first on horseback and later in tanks, only to be repelled, sometimes hundreds of years later, by liberating armies waving flags of yellow, purple, black and eventually a bright red. Looking slightly north, one would see a wall of stone slowly grow and expand like a two-headed snake over the mountain ridges, ever widening beyond the peripheral horizons. As these visions fade into memory, they are replaced by sky scrapers dotting the landscape. City walls that repelled invaders for millennia are demolished, making room for highways. Millions of bicycles are replaced by taxi cabs, scooters, air-conditioned double-decker buses, and subway lines. Businessmen, who only a decade ago dressed in government-issued garb, wear suits and ties with matching briefcases as they enter corporate office buildings over 70 stories high.
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Tradition meets modernity in China's capital. Millions of construction workers from other provinces will engulf the city to prepare for the world’s greatest sporting event. The entire city will collectively hold its breath in dual hope and anxiety, as another army of foreigners infiltrates their city in the summer of 2008, but this time through the gates of its newly renovated international airport and the largest terminal in the world. An entire city built for royalty, forbidden to the general public for centuries, will be flooded by millions of visitors traipsing through the courtyard. Children will play upon the stone tortoises and dragons that once stood guard for the imperial court. Beijing is big in its politics, its population, its acreage, its projects, and its reach. It is the great city of Cambuluc written about by Marco Polo, located along the upper tip of the North China Plain. From Beijing, dynasties have lorded over nations thousands of miles away in every direction. To live and study in Beijing is to understand a culture and society whose history extends back into ancient times, flourishing a millennium before Hannibal sacked Rome, Charlemagne united France, or Jesus preached to crowds in the streets of Jerusalem. To comprehend Beijing is to witness 1.5 billion people on the cusp of international power, welcoming change with open arms while still cognizant of an illustrious past. Beijingers will tell you that the city’s true greatness still lies ahead -- hope floats in this city, even higher than the oft-publicized smog. Only in Beijing can one ride a high-speed subway overlooking an imperial palace, party in a world-class night club housed in a 17th century traditional Chinese courtyard, or eat a gourmet dinner of Peking duck roasted the same way for centuries, followed by cappuccino and dessert at a chic lounge designed by the world’s most innovative architects. Beijing is a city where history meets modernity. Students and travelers lucky enough to make the journey to Beijing will experience another milestone in a civilization’s great history. There’s a reason Beijing is our most popular destination -- come and find out why.
Studying in Beijing
photo credit: (LEFT) TICTOC912, www.flickr.com/photos/tictoc912/254670460 | (right, bottom) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
Peking University Peking University is the most renowned and prestigious university in China. Established in 1898, the university is known within china as ‘Bei Da’. Each year over two thousand overseas students from more than sixty countries attend classes at Peking University. While some enroll in undergraduate and graduate degree programs, most foreign students come to the university for the Chinese Language Development Program. Peking University’s Chinese Language Center offers twenty levels of instruction from total beginner to advanced. The curriculum follows standards articulated by the National Committee on the Teaching of Chinese as a Second Language and offers certification at various levels through the HSK. Upon completing the program, students receive an official transcript from the University.
Tsinghua University Tsinghua University is one of the most famous universities in China and was built on the site of “Tsinghua Yuan” -- a former royal garden of the Qing Dynasty. As a comprehensive multi-disciplinary university, Tsinghua University is recognized as a world-class institution for both education and research, with strong disciplines in science, engineering, management and humanities. Tsinghua University welcomes international students who may enroll under various undergraduate, Masters and Doctoral programs. Many take part in the Chinese language programs offered by the University. As of Autumn of 2005, over 1,700 foreign students were enrolled at Tsinghua University, coming from 75 countries and majoring in science and technology, humanities, economics, management, law, arts and many other areas.
Beijing Language and Culture University Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) is the only university in China whose mission statement is to teach the Chinese language and culture to foreign students. Since its inception in the 1970s it has become the most popular institution for foreign students wishing to study in China, annually attracting over 9,000 international students from over 110 countries. The university also attracts the same number of Chinese students a year; this mesh of local and foreign students provides a great atmosphere in which to learn Mandarin and Chinese culture. The university has also gained the reputation of being a world leader in the field of teaching Mandarin as a foreign language, providing text books and teaching methods used world-wide. 35
SHANGHAI
When riding the blazingly fast maglev train away from Shanghai’s gleaming Pudong International Airport, it becomes apparent that China has arrived as a world superpower, and much like the 267.8 mph train that opened in 2003, Shanghai is the city that propels China forward. One need only look at the prolific skyscrapers of the Pudong district with its Oriental Pearl Tower and Jin Mao Tower, two of the world’s tallest man-made structures, the busiest cargo port in the world, or Donghai Bridge, the longest sea-crossing bridge in the world, to know that Shanghai is among the world’s most modern cities. A far cry from the ancient imperial histories of Beijing or Xi’an, Shanghai is representative of a new China. Located where the Yangtze River Delta and the Pacific meet, Shanghai, which literally translates as “on the sea,” was historically a small fishing village. Today, Shanghai is the most populated city in the world’s most populated country. The seeds of modern day China were planted in Shanghai: birthplace of Dr. Sun 36 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Energy, excess, and glamour converge in China’s most cosmopolitan city. Yat-Sen, the founder of modern China, location of the first congress of the Chinese Communist Party in 1921, and hometown of basketball superstar and China’s unofficial international ambassador, Yao Ming. During the late Qing dynasty, Shanghai’s strategic location as the gateway to the rich interior of the Yangtze River, an area which produces the vast amounts of food necessary to feed all of China, made it the envy of international powers looking to trade with China. With Beijing’s power weakening in the mid 19th century, Shanghai became the playground of foreign imperialists, who brought with them industry, western finance, and modernization, the vestiges of which can still be seen in the architecture of the Bund and the French Concession. By the time of the Kuomintang Republic, Shanghai was the world’s third greatest financial center behind only New York and London. With the Communist takeover in 1949, Shanghai became largely impoverished due to heavy taxation from the central government as well as the purging of “bourgeois elements.” After the economic reforms ushered in during the late 20th century, Shanghai has led China’s economic resurgence with a GDP that dwarfs that of every other region except for Hong Kong. Shanghai is also a center of politics and culture. Former Chinese president Jiang Zemin was first the mayor of Shanghai, and the city was the breeding ground of the right-leaning “Shanghai-clique” which was fiercely critical of the Cultural Revolution and highly influential in the recent reforms. And even with its modernist tendencies, Shanghai is a bastion of traditional culture with its famous schools of the arts such as the Songjiang School, the Huating School, and the Shanghai School. However, Shanghai’s most famous cultural school still may be the Chin Woo Athletic School of Wushu created by China’s most famous modern martial arts hero Huo Yuanjia. Despite its cosmopolitan character, Shanghai will seduce you with its intimacy. Whether a scenic view of the historic Bund from a boat ride along the Huangpu river or the flavor explosion of Shanghai’s famous xiao long bao, (“little dragon buns”), Shanghai will leave a lasting impression. To live and study in Shanghai is to have your fingers on the pulse of modern China. More than anything, one comes away with a greater understanding of the nation’s recent past and bright future. As Shanghai races into the 21st century, the rest of the country is hitching along on her coattails. We hope you come along for the ride. Don’t blink or you might miss it.
STUDYING IN SHANGHAI
photo credit: (left) Ayo Umali, www.flickr.com/photos/ayoumali/2234985414
Shanghai Jiaotong University (SJTU) Founded in 1896, Shanghai Jiaotong University, better known as SJTU, is one of the oldest universities in China. Throughout its century-long history, SJTU has produced a number of important figures, made significant contributions to the development of science and technology, and was even once known as the “Eastern MIT.” The Chinese language department at SJTU offers a variety of courses for all levels. Located outside of metropolitan Shanghai, the large and scenic campus is abundant with both greenery and excitement. Due to its location, number and flexibility of language courses, and large population of foreign students, SJTU is a popular choice with students looking to learn mandarin in Shanghai.
Fudan University Named by the father of modern Chinese academics after a line from the Confucian Classics, Fudan University is regarded as one of the finest learning institutions in all of China. In the 1950s, Fudan became one of the first Chinese universities to enroll international students. Since that time, Fudan has accepted and trained over 10,000 foreign students from 100 different countries and regions worldwide. Presently there are over 1,800 long-term international students in Fudan, half of whom are actively pursuing degrees, 600 short-term students attending each year, and a number of general scholars and visiting scholars. With its rich history of academic excellence and openness to foreign students, Fudan University is an excellent place to pursue mandarin studies. 37
xi’an
One of the oldest and most influential cities in China, Xi’an is considered the cradle of Chinese civilization. In its more than 3,100 year history, Xi’an was the capital of 13 dynasties, the Eastern terminus of the Silk Road, the earliest link between China and the West, the economic, political and cultural center of China during the formative Qin, Han and Tang dynasties, and the focal point of development for both Chinese Buddhism and Daoism. Unsurprisingly, Xi’an is home to numerous historical sites as well as countless cultural and religious artifacts, most famous of all being Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s legendary Terracotta Warriors, an army of 6,000 life-sized clay warriors standing watch over the Emperor’s mausoleum. Other mustsees include: the immense Ming Dynasty city walls, the most well-preserved ancient city walls in the world, measuring up to 18 meters thick in some places; the Great Mosque, one of the largest in China, incorporating a fascinating blend of Chinese and Muslim influences; and the Muslim Quarter, home to the city’s Muslim minority (the hui), in which one can find numerous smaller mosques, butchers and even an Islamic food market. Outside of these world famous landmarks, Xi’an also has an impressive collection of royal palaces, national parks, museums, temples and shrines. Six of the eight Buddhist Founder’s Temples are located in Xi’an. Hua Shan, one of the five sacred mountains in Taoism, can be found just south of the city in the Qinling mountains. 38 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Xi'an is the historic heart of China and the beginning of the ancient silk road.
Fast forward to the 21st century, in which Xi’an has resurfaced as a cultural, industrial and technological hub, laying claim to a flourishing software industry, a growing community of cutting edge artists, musicians and architects, a plethora of shopping malls, not to mention the world’s largest internet bar counting in at more than 3,000 computers. The birthplace of Qinqiang, the oldest form of Chinese drama which went on to influence many other styles, including Peking Opera, Xi’an is also a focal point for various new art forms. The Chang’an School, a modern school of Chinese traditional arts, finds its home here, as does the contemporary art factory Spinning Town. Known for its underground music scene, Xi’an is also famous for producing Rock Stars. As a city steeped in a rich historical legacy while simultaneously making its footprint in a modern context, Xi’an appeals to both the history buff and the techie, the scholar and the tourist, the artist and the business person. Regardless of your interests, Xi’an is sure to have what you are looking for.
STUDYING IN XI’AN Xi’an Jiaotong University Xi’an Jiaotong University is one of the nine leading universities in China directly administered by the Ministry of Education. The Xi’an Jiaotong School of Chinese Language Study was founded in 1995. It is famous for a beautiful study environment, advanced teaching facilities, professional academic staff, diversified courses and effective teaching. There have been about 2,000 international students studying Chinese from more than 30 countries since the school was established. After several years’ improvement, the School of Chinese Language Study has become an independent school offering a combination of Chinese teaching and cultural education. There are six different level Chinese classes. There are Preliminary A and B classes, Intermediate A and B classes, and Advanced A and B classes. After one-year study in Preliminary Class, the students will acquire a command of 1500-2000 Chinese words and reach the first level required by HSK test.
photo photo crediT: credits: (right, (left)bottom) Nelly G, www.flickr.com/photos/yokels/771725606 CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
Northwestern University Northwestern University is one of China’s leading comprehensive universities. Founded in 1902, it is also one of the oldest institutions of learning in Northwest China. The college offers a wide range of Mandarin language courses suitable for all levels. The university stresses international academic and personnel exchanges. Since the start of China’s opening and reform in 1978, Northwestern University has established cooperation and exchange relations with nearly 30 institutions of higher education and scientific research in the United states, Japan, Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, and Hong Kong and Taiwan regions, received more than 5,000 visiting scholars and experts, enrolled over 1,000 international students, held more than 20 international academic conferences, and sent abroad more than 500 scholars to pursue advanced studies, give lectures, collaborate in scientific researches, or participate in international conferences. These exchanges have contributed to the rise of the university’s academic level and international renown. 39
kunming
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The "City of Eternal Spring" is the ideal place to explore the countryside of southern China. The people of Yunnan Province have a saying: “The mountains are high and the emperor far away.” Tucked away in the southwest frontier of China, Yunnan was long considered a center of lawlessness and incivility. However, today Yunnan is renowned as one of China’s premier tourist destinations, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Located on the Yunnan plateau, the province boasts colossal mountains to the north and dense jungle in the south. The capital of Yunnan Province, Kunming has been laid siege by sultans from the west, Mongols from the north, and Japanese bombers from above. With Burma, Laos, and Vietnam directly south, and Tibet to the west, Yunnan is home to 25 different ethnic minorities, making Kunming one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Yunnan’s unique topography, plethora of natural beauty, and its rich melting pot of cultures makes it unlike any other place in China. In fact, the only thing that remains relatively homogeneous in Kunming is the weather. Often called the “City of Eternal Spring,” Kunming’s yearly temperature ranges from 10ºC (50ºF) to 21ºC (69ºF).
photo credits: (LEFT) sei.cs12, www.flickr.com/photos/seics12/2352207940 | (right) Douglas Knisely, www.flickr.com/photos/dnk/1029023401
Kunming is, and always has been, a major transportation hub. In 1913, the French completed the Indochina Rail line which connected Kunming all the way to Hanoi in order to exploit Yunnan’s copper resources. The line is still in use today. During World War II, it was the terminus for the famed Burma Road, through which allied forces sent supplies to the Chinese to aid in the fight against Japan. Once the road was blocked by Japanese forces, pilots flew over the peaks of Nepal to airdrop supplies into Kunming. Today, there are direct highways from Kunming to its southern neighbors Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Burma, as well as to its northwest neighbor Tibet. Moreover, renovation of the Stillwell Road is underway, which will be a highway that connects Kunming to India. Needless to say, Kunming is a great jumping off point for world travelers. As a smaller city, further away from the well-populated coast, Kunming is very popular with students looking to study in an environment with very little western influence. While Kunming does boast a large international population, most foreign students studying in Yunnan are actually from the Indian Sub-continent and Southeast Asia. Students hoping to mingle with mostly Chinese-speakers are encouraged to study in Kunming. In addition, Kunming’s status as a smaller city further away from more developed areas results in a significantly lower cost of living than in big cities such as Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing. Because of its beautiful scenery, fantastic weather, and small western expatriate community, Kunming is CSA’s third most popular destination behind Shanghai and Beijing. Students looking for something more adventurous should consider studying in Yunnan Province, China’s original “Wild West.”
Studying in Yunnan Yunnan University Yunnan University was founded in December 1922. Currently, Yunnan University is among the “National Key Universities” under special development by the Chinese government. Yunnan University has also been included on the list of the universities essential to the “China Western Development” program. The campus of Yunnan University is covered with the green shades of ginkgo and cherry trees under which grow patches of fragrant orchids and narcissuses. The teaching buildings, libraries, and laboratories stand out among a riot of colors from the countless blooming flowers. The beautiful campus was recently featured in acclaimed Chinese director Zhang Yimou’s latest film, “Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles.” Such picturesque surroundings in a salubrious climate are ideal for Mandarin study and other academic pursuits. 41
qingdao Imagine an entire afternoon spent studying Mandarin after a full morning’s worth of class. Now, add a sandy beach, a cool ocean breeze, and an icy, fresh-brewed German Lager. Sound appealing? If it does, Qingdao is the place for you! Located on the tip of the Shandong peninsula, due west of the Korean peninsula, Qingdao is northern China’s premier ocean resort. The name of this fair city literally translates as “green” or “lush” (qing) island (dao). Students may be more familiar with its western postal name: Tsingtao, which shares the name of city’s most famous export, Tsingtao Beer. Qingdao has come a long way since it was a small fishing port only 100 years ago. Today, the city boasts a booming economy, one of Asia’s busiest seaports with daily ferry crossings to Korea and Japan, a fascinating modern history and cultural background, and of course, great beaches. Like most of China’s northeastern seaboard, Shandong province was the subject of territorial disputes and foreign occupation during the late 19th century. In fact, Shandong’s occupation played a key role in the genesis of modern China. Fearing foreign imperialists, the Qing Dynasty deemed Qingdao a key strategic location and made the fishing town into a fortified naval base. However, before these plans came to fruition, the area was ceded to Germany in 1897. Thus, much of the city’s development was the result of German occupation, which is reflected in the city’s architecture even today. Qingdao’s first streets, many of its standing institutions, the beginnings of the modern harbor, and the world famous brewery were all constructed during the German occupation. Retreating from the Allied Powers, German forces deserted Qingdao at the onset of WWI. Soon after, Japan occupied the territory and remained there after Germany’s defeat, despite promises by the Allied Powers that Shandong would be returned if China joined the Allied Forces. The Chinese citizenry were further incensed when The Treaty of Versailles in 1919 transferred all the German concessions in Shandong directly to Japan. This sparked enormous nationalistic fervor, leading directly to countrywide protests known as the May 4th Movement.
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Qingdao is northern China’s premier ocean resort. Largely considered modern China’s political awakening, the mass revolt and student organizations involved in the movement sowed the seeds of Marxism in China. The May 4th Movement marked the downfall of the feudal Confucian era that had lasted over three thousand years and germinated a new political and cultural ideology that evolved into the China we see today.
photo credits: (right, TOP) Jc Fan, www.flickr.com/photos/tsfan/217760165 | (right, bottom) Matt eckelman, www.flickr.com/photos/jin_aili/1533660142
With Qingdao’s legacy cemented in modern Chinese history, the city is paving its own path into the future. In the past decade, Qingdao has become a manufacturing powerhouse, and with a recently opened special economic zone, multinational companies have flocked to the area, especially from neighboring Japan and Korea. Qingdao has also experienced similar growth in tourism, as the city’s seaside location has made it ideal for large events such as several 2008 Olympic events and the International Beer Festival. Qingdao has it all: an emerging economy, great history, great beer and beaches galore.
STUDYING IN QINGDAO Qingdao University Qingdao University (QU), the largest university in Shandong faces the Yellow Sea to its south with Mount Fushan as its background, creating a beautiful academic setting. Yearly, over 700 foreign students come to study at QU, which provides comprehensive Mandarin language courses for students at all levels. QU leads the country in research conducted on Luxun’s works, Pre-Qing Dynasty literature, non-linear excitation computer control systems, super low temperature cornea freezing, nutrition and immunity, and natural pigment extraction. The university also has cooperation with many provincial and municipal enterprises and has established specialty research institutes with electronics companies Haier, Hisense, Blue Goose and Double Star.
Ocean University Ocean University of China (OUC) is a comprehensive university under the direct administration of the State Ministry of Education, which offers courses in Science, Engineering, Agronomy (Fisheries), Economics, Liberal Arts, Pharmaceutics, Management, Law, Education and History, etc. OUC is especially renowned for its disciplines in Oceanography and Fisheries and has been honored as one of China’s “National Key Universities”. Ocean University has language courses running throughout the year and also offers first rate business courses, which are taught in English. OUC offers the unique opportunity for beginning Mandarin students to take language and business classes while living in China. 43
tianjin
With its history of foreign concessions, international trade and European style architecture, Tianjin is fast becoming one of the more popular student destinations in China. Tianjin’s urban center is located along the Hai He River, which leads directly to the Pacific. As the historic port linking the capital Beijing to the open sea, Tianjin earned its name which means “the place where the Emperor crossed the river”. Tianjin’s key status as a port city is not the only thing that recommends this growing city. Although often overshadowed by Beijing, which is a mere 100 kilometers away, Tianjin is returning to international prominence. From the forced entry of foreign interests to the complex internal conflicts of China, Tianjin has been at the hub of many a dispute. In 1856, Chinese Imperial soldiers boarded a British Ship anchored in Tianjin Harbor and arrested 12 sailors suspected of piracy and opium smuggling. In response, British and French gunships were sent to bombard a garrison near Tianjin, leading to the Second Opium War. After humiliating defeat at the hands of western powers, the Chinese government signed the Tianjin Treaties which opened Tianjin to international trade in 1860 and allowed 44 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Tianjin has a cosmopolitan yet intimate atmosphere. wholly foreign concessions to operate within the city. European imperialism and a Chinese fiscal crisis incited an uprising in the late 19th century, led by the Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists, better known as the Boxers. Backed by the Chinese government, the Boxers seized control of Tianjin in 1900, but were defeated by the Eight Nation United Army, concretizing a foreign presence that would remain until the end of World War II. Since China was reintroduced to the world in 1978, Tianjin has undergone many changes. While not at the same rate as its large neighbor Beijing, Tianjin is in the midst of rapid development. Tianjin is a special municipality and does not belong to any province. Set at the northern end of the Grand Canal of China, Tianjin has direct access to both the Yellow and Yangtze Rivers. As the biggest trading port in Northern China, Tianjin has a thriving population of over 10 million people. While not yet a major metropolis, Tianjin still affords many of the comforts an international city. Home to the first modern university in China, and the oldest newspaper, Tianjin has a thriving intellectual and cultural scene. Some of the first museums, theatres and art galleries in China were founded here, and the heavy presence of foreign concessions strongly influenced the music, art and architecture of the area. Take a stroll down Ancient Culture Street to see reconstructions of traditional Tianjin homes, or through Wudadao to look at turn of the century European villas. There are also plenty of venues for shopping, including the Antiques Market with its wide variety of relics from the cultural revolution.
photo credits: (LEFT) Nicola Doering, www.flickr.com/photos/1980nic/2244520622 | (RIGHT) Emily Li, www.flickr.com/photos/79282526@N00/95879217
While well known for its seafood dishes, Tianjin is best known for three culinary specialties: Guobuli, the local version of steamed buns famous all around China; dough twists, known as Mahua; and rice cakes filled with red bean known as Erduoyan. For those looking for a heartier meal, sampling the Eight Great Bowls will satiate even the most demanding palate. Only an hour from Beijing, Tianjin has the positive attributes of a big city, yet retains a small city intimacy. With a relatively small foreign presence, there are ample opportunities for immersion and language practice without distraction. Despite its xenophobic history, residents are famous for being both extremely friendly and patient with foreigners, and openly proffer help and friendship, making Tianjin an ideal place to learn Mandarin.
Studying in Tianjin Tianjin University Tianjin University (TU), known as Peiyang University in its early days, was founded on October 2, 1895. It was the first institution of higher learning in the history of modern Chinese education. Peiyang University changed its name to Tianjin University in 1951. In its century long history the university has seen more than a hundred thousand students come through its doors. The university began accepting foreign students in 1954. Since then more than 2,000 students from over 60 countries have studied at TU. In recent years the University has focused on attracting more students from abroad and has seen an average rise of 15% a year over the last 5 five years in its foreign student population. The Chinese language program at present attracts around 200 students a year. The program has become well established and is offered to all levels. The University also offers short term programs during the winter and summer.
Nankai University Nankai University was founded in 1919 by the famous educators of Chinese modern history, Mr. Zhang Boling and Mr. Yan Xiu. Along with Peking University and Tsinghua University, Nankai is sometimes referred to as one of China’s “Ivy league� schools. Nankai provides comprehensive Mandarin language programs for students at all levels, but is better known as a comprehensive university with a complete curriculum that includes the humanities, natural sciences, technology, life sciences, medical sciences and the arts. Nankai offers 68 undergraduate specialties, 158 Masters programs, 98 Doctoral programs, 17 Post-Doctoral research stations and 12 authorized basic specialties. Nankai has been active in structuring disciplines to meet the demands of producing economic development and social progress in the 21st century. 45
hangzhou when Sipping a cup of the locally grown Longjing (Dragon Well) tea and admiring the scenery on a sunny day, it is easy to see why Hangzhou has the reputation as the most beautiful city in China. It is a title that Hangzhou more than lives up to with its tranquil mix of hills and lakes, including the famous Xi Hu (West Lake) which attracts thousands of tourists every year from all over China.
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"The sky has the heavens, the Earth has Hangzhou." A popular Chinese phrase states, “shang you tian tang, xia you su hang,’ which means “the sky has the heavens, and the Earth has Suzhou and Hangzhou.” With its natural majesty and grace, Hangzhou has been muse to many scholars and artists of old. Yet Hangzhou is more than just a pretty face, it is a city with a long and dynamic history stretching back over 2,200 years. Once the capital of the Wuyue Kingdom and the Southern Song Dynasty, Hangzhou has witnessed China evolve from its infancy into the modern day powerhouse that it has become. As one of the seven ancient capitals of China (the others being Beijing, Nanjing, Luoyang, Xi’an, Kaifeng, and Anyang), Hangzhou has earned a special place in the hearts of Chinese people for its contribution to Chinese culture and history. Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang province, located on the fertile Yangtze River Delta about 180 kilometers south of Shanghai. With its relatively smaller population and awe inspiring natural beauty, its little wonder that many people favor Hangzhou over its densely populated northern neighbor. It is reputed that Chinese rice was first cultivated only 100 kilometers from the city in the nearby town of Yuyao. Hangzhou is also the birthplace of silk in China. According to legend, one of the emperor’s concubines Yang Gui Hui discovered how to make silk and taught it to the people of Hangzhou. She is also credited with being one of the most beautiful women in ancient China and had an appetite for consuming over 300 lychees a day!
photo credit: (left) FlyingVlieg, www.flickr.com/photos/flyingvlieg/2897605182
Hangzhou is also the economic centre of the region, growing year by year. The electronics giant Toshiba has set up its sole overseas production plant here, and the Wahaha drinks company is headquartered in the city alongside traditional Hangzhou industries such as textiles and silk. From 2004-2006, Hangzhou was voted the number one city in China to do business according to Forbes magazine. Studying in Hangzhou offers a unique experience like no other in China, encompassing centuries of culture and history, stunning scenery, and a thriving economy. Students choosing to study here would be hard-pressed to find another city offering as many delights as Hangzhou.
STUDYING IN HANGZHOU Zhejiang University Under the direct administration of China‘s Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University is a key comprehensive university whose fields of study cover eleven branches of learning, including philosophy, literature, history, education, science, economics, law, management, engineering, agriculture and medicine. Founded in 1897, Zhejiang University is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in China. Long reputed as the “Eastern Cambridge,” Zhejiang University has always been ranked among the top universities in China due to its broad academic strengths in teaching, research and social service. Zhejiang University provides a comprehensive range of Mandarin language courses for all levels, and there are currently over 1,200 foreign students enrolled at the university. 47
dalian When it comes to Dalian, take every negative stereotype you have about China and throw it out the window. This is Dalian – the cleanest, friendliest, most comfortable city in all of China. Don’t just take our word for it, every year Dalian is voted as China’s number one most “livable city” in the China Daily News. Often called the “Hong Kong of the North,” Dalian is widely considered an exemplar of quality city-planning. Many cities throughout China have used Dalian’s “city model” to make over their own cities with the newfound wealth and investment in infrastructure resultant of China’s explosive economic growth. With Dalian’s urban population of only 3 million, reputation for cleanliness, sky-rocketing economy, clear blue skies, and the friendliest and safest city traffic you’ll find this side of Tokyo, we’re sure you’ll agree. Dalian is the capital city of Liaoning, a province that makes up what was once known as Manchuria. Through the last few 200 years, this area in particular has been through quite an ordeal. Manchuria was the ancestral homeland of the Qing monarchs, China’s last imperial dynasty, and thus was held in high regard. Towards the end of their reign, Dalian was annexed multiple times through wars of aggression by both Russia and Japan. As the northernmost ice-free harbor on the continent, Dalian has long been an area of strategic importance for all the superpowers of the region, and the area around the city was the battleground for many bloody battles during the early 20th century. During World War II, the Japanese set up a puppet government in Liaoning called Manchukuo to govern over China, with Pu Yi, the last Emperor of China, at its helm. After Japan’s defeat, the area was occupied by Soviet Russia for ten years before being returned to China. From the city’s architecture to its industry, tangible traces of foreign influence can still be felt throughout the city. Dalian was once the terminus of the Orient Express, which ran from Moscow across Siberia, and was also Russia’s most important port-city in Asia. In fact, the city’s name is a transliteration of its original Russian name, Dalny. 48 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Clean, friendly, & comfortable, Dalian is consistently ranked the most "livable city" in all of China. Today, both Russian and Japanese architecture is featured throughout the city, and keywords from Russia and Japan have made their way into the vernacular of the local dialect. However, the most lasting influence by these occupying powers has been in commercial industry.
photo credits: (left) Paul johns, www.flickr.com/photos/snoshuu/351130845 | (right, top) Paul Johns, www.flickr.com/photos/snoshuu/355286042 | (right, bottom) Cory Doctorow, www.flickr.com/photos/doctorow/1326826346
Under Russian and Japanese rule, Dalian was a major center for shipbuilding and locomotive industries. Its history as an important port for international trade continues today, as it is now China’s largest petroleum port, the terminus for the oil pipelines of northern China, and its seaside areas are dotted with vital chemical, diesel, and oil refineries. With the opening of the northern Dagushan harbor, Dalian is one of the most important energy hubs in all of northern Asia. However, Dalian’s economic might is not limited to its heavy and light industries, as there has been significant foreign investment once it was declared a “special economic zone,” making it ideal for investment by foreign manufacturing companies. Because of Dalian’s special economic status and its location as a worldwide transportation hub, major international companies such as Intel, Samsung, Sanyo, Canon, Pfizer and Toshiba have all opened factories and processing plants in the area. Nonetheless, the heavy economic growth has not brought ruin to this idyllic city, with its broad avenues, armies of street sweepers, wide grassy parks, and sandy beaches. Areas of heavy industry are located far away from the city center, and the mild weather and constant breezes from the nearby water keep Dalian pleasant year-round. Come find out for yourself; you’ll soon agree that Dalian is the most livable city in all of China.
Studying in Dalian Dalian University of Foreign Languages Dalian University of Foreign Languages (DUFL), located in the center of the city proper, was founded in 1964. It is the only tertiary institution of foreign language studies in the northeast of China. DUFL is an international university with enrollment exceeding 800 international students of various levels and different durations. It has established exchange and cooperative ties with over 60 universities and research institutions. One of the first institutions to offer a BA degree in Chinese, DUFL’s School of Chinese Studies (SCS) is renowned for the quality of its Chinese language programs designed for international students in China. DUFL is also a National HSK Testing Centre.
Dalian University of Technology Dalian University of Technology (DUT) is among the universities authorized by the State Ministry of Education in China to enroll overseas students. The university has set up a School of International Cultural Exchanges to take the responsibility for enrollment, education and management of international students. In order to further develop international friendships and promote the cultural and academic exchanges between people all over the world, DUT enrolls overseas students from numerous parts of the globe. There are currently overseas students from more than 20 countries enrolled at DUT, pursuing bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, or enrolled in Chinese language programs.
49
nanjing
Modern buildings overlooking ancient ruins provide a startling and thoughtful juxtaposition in the historical city of Nanjing. The capital of Jiangsu, Nanjing houses 5.29 million people yet still manages to provide a sense of openness and space with its many parks and lakes. Its balmy weather and chic neighborhoods make this a perfect city to explore on foot. Nanjing is perhaps most well known for the atrocities suffered at the hands of the Japanese during WWII, when over 300,000 of the city’s populace were killed in a systematic, brutal and appalling massacre. Yet this city has played a key role in the history of China, both as its occasional capital and the center of numerous conflicts. First established as the capital in AD 229, Nanjing was later razed to the ground by the Sui Dynasty in a power bid. The Tang Dynasty began the reconstruction of the city and renewed its status as the capital, but it was the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty who finished the reconstruction, capping it off with the world’s longest city wall. When the Qing Dynasty took the city in 1864, over 100,000 people died in mass suicide and fighting, yet the infrastructure of the city suffered very little damage. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen would be the last to name this great city capital of China when the Republic of China came to power, though it was a short-lived return to prominence. No longer the capital in name, Nanjing is still a center of culture, commerce and beauty in China. Despite Nanjing’s bloody history, it is an architecturally beautiful city, with much of its ancient sites still standing beside newer counterparts. Located on the Yangtze River Delta basin, there is a natural abundance of resources, from proximity to water sources to a wealth of naturally occurring minerals in Nanjing’s outlying areas. In addition, there are several hot springs located near the city. The wide avenues, lush vegetation and relative abundance of parks, trees and plants within the city give 50 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
China's bustling intersection of commerce and cultural heritage. off a sense of pleasant abundance. Many of the more popular sites, such as the Sun YatSen Mausoleum and the Lingyi temple are located on the looming Zijin mountain, but there are also many interesting sites hidden throughout the city and its surrounding suburbs. Not to be overlooked, some of China’s leading art, theatre and dance groups are based in this city. Be sure to check out the Qianxian dance company, or see a performance of Kunqu, China’s oldest stage art. The de jure capital, Nanjing is one of the largest cities in the East China Region, second only to neighboring Shanghai. A hub for academic and artistic pursuits, Nanjing is also a popular tourist destination and has a growing financial district. The numerous universities and large student body engender a lively night life, but its three hour proximity to Shanghai allows for convenient weekend getaways when looking for a change of venue. For the culturally inclined, the government hosts a series of festivals throughout the year, the most famous being the International Plum Blossom Festival, to which thousands of tourists flock each year to see the largest collection of plum blossoms in the world.
Studying in NANJING Nanjing University Nanjing University consists of two campuses, one in Gulou and the other in Pukou with a total area of more than 600 acres. It is one of the top universities in China, with beautiful campuses and modern teaching and research facilities. The university offers a comprehensive Chinese language program for overseas students. As one of the most active universities in China in its international academic exchanges, NU accepts students of all Mandarin levels. Since 1979, it has established links with more than 180 universities and institutions in nearly 30 countries. In the meantime, more than 6,000 international students have studied at this university. Nobel Prize laureates, such as Professors Chen Ning Yang, Tsung Dao Lee, Ilya Prigogine, Sheldon Glashow and Robert Mandel have been conferred Honorary Doctorates, or Honorary Professorship by the university.
Nanjing Normal University
photo credit: (Right, bottom) Simen S., www.flickr.com/photos/simens/2156019364
Nanjing Normal University (NJNU), on the threshold of its 100th anniversary, is one of the “National Key Universities” under the “211 Project” and is also a provincially renowned institution of higher learning. NJNU is among the earliest universities authorized by the Ministry of Education to open up to the outside world. Since 1978, NJNU has established ties of academic exchange and cooperation with 44 overseas universities and institutes. Since then, over 6,000 overseas students have studied or received in-service training at NJNU, which provides a comprehensive range of Mandarin language courses for students of all levels.
51
Guilin
Former U.S. President Richard Nixon once said, “I have visited more than 80 countries and over 100 cities. I have found that no city can surpass the beauty of Guilin. Guilin is really a bright pearl in China.” A distant cry from the concrete jungles of Beijing and Shanghai, Guilin is a breathtaking city to behold. With its beautiful natural scenery and picturesque landscapes, Guilin has served as a muse for Chinese poets and painters for thousands of years, long before it inspired such praise from President Nixon. Guilin, formerly known as Guizhou is situated on the west bank of the Li River in southern China’s Guangxi province. Its name means ‘Forest of Sweet Osmanthus’ due to the abundant Sweet Osmanthus trees that grow throughout the city. In 1981, this ancient city was one of four Chinese cites chosen by the State Council to be designated for preservation of natural scenery, as well as historical and cultural heritage. Guilin is a tourist city, home to 1.34 million people and several of China’s ethnic minority tribes such as the Miao, Zhuang, and Dong. It is much less crowded than the big cities, but Guilin really comes alive during the summer months with the buzz of tourists from all over the world clamoring for a glimpse of Guilin’s magnificent scenery. The town centre itself is surrounded by two rivers and 52 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
four lakes. Strolling down the city centre at night during the summer months is a must-see experience. The city refuses to sleep with its night markets selling all kinds of trinkets, gifts and food to tourists and locals alike set against the shadowy backdrop of the hills, mountains and shimmering lakes. The side street food vendors and restaurants all sell their take on the renowned Guilin rice noodles traditionally eaten with horse meat or the
Guilin inspires the mind and fires the soul. Studying in Guilin Guanxi Normal University Guangxi Normal University (GXNU) was established on October 12, 1932, as a teachers’ college and has grown to become a fully-accredited, comprehensive university. GXNU offers many basic and applied disciplines of liberal arts, natural sciences and teacher education programs. GXNU is divided into two campuses: Wang Cheng Campus, in the center of the city at the former site of Jingjiang Princes’ Mansion of the Ming Dynasty, and Yu Cai Campus, in the Qixing Hi-Tech Development Zone. Currently, the university consists of 14 colleges and schools, six teaching departments, five instructional centers, an educational technology center, 20 research institutes, two affiliated high schools, and an experimental kindergarten. The university offers over 60 junior college and undergraduate programs, 25 higher vocational programs, and 33 Master’s degree programs. GXNU combines academic excellence with a welcoming atmosphere. Its strong commitment to teaching and learning methods encourages students to develop independence and self-direction while still receiving abundant support from faculty and staff.
photo credit: (TOP) Rosemarie Finlay, www.flickr.com/photos/flying_fin/1466465731
zhong zi dumplings made with mung bean and glutinous rice bound in a banana or bamboo leaf. The city is also the starting point for cruises on the Li River, usually headed toward the once sleepy fishing town of Yangshuo, which now derives much of its income from tourists there to see cormorant fishing; an old technique in which trained cormorant birds tied to boats dive into lakes to bring fish for their masters. It is also here that the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill - the scenic image which appears on the back of the 20 Yuan note - Can be found. Guilin has served as inspiration to countless scholars, artists and romantics. Follow in their footsteps and see China through their eyes. What better way to study than with Mother Nature on your doorstep? Be awestruck by one of the most beautiful places in China. From breathtaking mountains, hills, and rivers to caves and miles of unspoiled scenery, let Guilin inspire the mind and fire the soul. 53
GUANGZHOU
With a myriad of names such as The Flower City, Five Rams City, or China’s Southern Gateway, Guangzhou is more commonly known as Canton in the West. The capital of Guangdong province, Guangzhou is where Cantonese and Mandarin culture, language and foods converge. Located on the Pearl River, this port city bustling with life and full of energy is an excellent introduction to mainland China. Guangzhou’s history dates as far back as 214 BC, when the small city of Panyu was built where Guangzhou now stands. Archaeological discoveries suggest that Panyu was involved in international sea trade as early as 206 BC, when Panyu became the capital of the kingdom of Nanyue. It remained a major trade destination throughout all the imperial dynasties, and 54 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Guangzhou is where Cantonese & Mandarin culture, language, and foods converge. was the starting point for the Silk Road of the Sea during the Tang Dynasty. Even when China shut its doors to all outside contact under Mao Zedong, Guangzhou still held its famous, invitation only, Canton Trade Fair. During the 16th century, Guangzhou hosted a Portuguese settlement and later expelled them to the island of Macao. Despite this, the city maintained a thriving trade with the Portuguese, and by the end of the 17th century, had a port commerce bustling with Dutch, Spanish, Indian and British traders. In the 18th century, Guangzhou was named one of the world’s great trading ports, leading to its distinction as one of the top three cities in the world until the outbreak of the Opium Wars. Guangzhou has also been host to numerous revolutionary movements, including housing the first president of the Republic of China, Sun Yat-Sen during his battles with warlords, and fostering the fledgling Communist movement and its prominent leaders in their early stages. Located only 1 ½ hours by train from Hong Kong, this city’s prime location has made it one of mainland China’s top ranking commercial and manufacturing regions. As one of China’s most affluent cities, Guangzho’s development and public services are new, well funded and convenient. Beneath this veneer of a new and westernizing city lies a commitment and appreciation of the magnificent history to which locals lay claim. Visit the Temple of Six Banyan Trees and stand where the famous poet Su Shi of the Song Dynasty once wrote, or explore the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King, said to rival the Ming tombs of Beijing. For a break from the crowded streets of downtown, visit the island of Shamian, once the foreign concession of Guangzhou, or for a deeper understanding of Western repression, visit the Guangzhou City Museum located in verdant Yuexi park. Guangzhou has a population reaching roughly 8.5 million, making it the third most populated city in China. With so many mouths to feed, Guangzhou is known for its excellent cuisine. Most famous of all is its legendary dim sum, known as yam cha, which can be found throughout the city. The Guangzhou cuisine is not limited to Cantonese food, also offering a veritable smorgasbord of different Chinese, Asian and European restaurants. However, it would be ill advised to stick to restaurants, as the street food is also delicious and provides a wonderful opportunity to chat with the locals.
Studying in Guangzhou Guangzhou University Guangzhou University (GU) was founded as a multi-disciplinary institution on July 11, 2000 by merging several tertiary institutions. While the undergraduate program remains the dominant part of its operation, GU is fully committed to consolidating and expanding its postgraduate programs and international students program. GU has so far established cooperative relationships with a wide range of universities and academic institutions in such countries as the USA, Australia, France, Russia, South Korea, Japan, and regions like Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao. GU is now fully committed to the mission of developing itself into a modern, comprehensive and well-known university with a focus on teaching and research. With that in mind, GU has created several language programs, from short term courses to full degree programs.
photo credit: (left) David Gleit, www.flickr.com/photos/gedawei/404208762
South China Normal University South China Normal University (SCNU) is active in international cultural and academic exchange, with its advantage of being close to Hong Kong and Macao as well as its strength in teacher education. Links have been established with over 50 universities in over 20 countries such as the United States, the UK, France, and Japan. Joint research projects are conducted with many companies, government sectors, and the army. Great achievements have been made in cooperation with universities and research institutions in Hong Kong , Macao and Taiwan. SCNU is a renowned location for teaching Chinese as a foreign language. It is also a national base for the training of teachers in high schools and primary schools in Hong Kong and Macao. An astounding 70% of the teachers in the high schools, primary schools and kindergartens of Macao were educated and trained at SCNU. 55
Chengdu
In a country advancing towards modernity while holding on to a millennia’s worth of tradition, Chengdu may be the most prototypical Chinese city of all. The capital city of Sichuan Province, Chengdu offers far more than just its well-known panda inhabitants. The province was named Sichuan, which means “four rivers,” because China’s four most important rivers flow through the province’s landscape. Like a bridge connecting the future and past, Chengdu comfortably straddles the two competing forces of tradition and modernity. With a population reaching towards 13 million, Chengdu is the nation’s 4th largest city but still a step behind the more economically advanced coastal cities. However, this landlocked city is emerging as the financial capital of western China with significant investment from HSBC, Citigroup, Standard Chartered, and more. Chengdu is not immune 56 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Chengdu is an exciting blend of China's past and present. to signs of westernization, such as neon-lit malls and skyscrapers. Yet, Chengdu houses more teahouses than any other city in China, double that of Shanghai despite having half the population. Nonetheless, this beautifully forested city, often shrouded in mist, allows students to experience a traditional Chinese township with the comforts of a major metropolitan city. This factor is not lost on the Chinese, who regularly rank Chengdu among China’s top four most “livable cities.” While the Sichuan Province is held in high regard for its contributions to Chinese culture -- Marco Polo went so far as to call Chengdu “China’s Paris” -- its most famous export is its fiery cuisine. One would be hard pressed to find a major boulevard in any of China’s major cities lacking a Sichuan restaurant. A common saying among the Chinese is, “Shi zai Zhongguo, wei zai Sichuan,” which translates as, “China is the place for food, but Sichuan is the place for flavor.” As the progenitor of the ubiquitous “la” and “ma” Chinese flavors (spicy and numb), Sichuan’s famous dishes include: “gong bao ji ding” (imperial chicken), “hui guo rou” (returned to the wok meat), “ma po dou fu” (pock-marked Grandmother Chen’s spicy tofu), “huo guo” (fiery hot pot soup), “dan dan mien” (carrying pole noodles), and “mayi shang su” (ants climbing a tree noodles). If you think the names are interesting, wait until you try the food! For those less inclined to setting their tongues aflame, Chengdu still has much to offer. Its most famous residents are China’s celebrated Giant Pandas, which inhabit the mountain ranges of Sichuan. Located 10 kilometers north of the city limits, the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base holds nearly 50 pandas and works tirelessly at increasing the nearly extinct population. The center’s recent success was much publicized on YouTube when a record 12 baby pandas were born in 2006. Once in a blue moon, visitors willing to pay extortionate rates are even allowed to take photographs with the lovable giants. Students in the CSA program sometimes travel to Chengdu with the sole purpose of seeing the pandas up close and personal.
photo credit: (left) 藍哥, www.flickr.com/photos/lan5280/1354085284
Studying in Chengdu allows a unique opportunity to see a Chinese city that comfortably integrates modernity with tradition. While Chengdu’s High-tech Industrial Development Zone is highlighted by companies such as Intel, Microsoft, Motorola, Nokia, and IBM, on every street one can still find traditional wooden houses, hundreds of bicycles, mahjong tables, roosters running wild, temples galore, and not a McDonald’s in sight. Whenever their Eastern neighbors unfairly stereotype them as lazy, the Sichuanese argue that they just enjoy life more in the land of the four rivers.
Studying in Chengdu Sichuan University Sichuan University (SCU) has the widest coverage of disciplines and the largest operating scale in western China. The university enjoys a long history, with glorious traditions, and was one of the earliest institutes of higher learning in China, dating back to its origins as the Sichuan Chinese and Western School, established in 1896. This school’s tradition is directly descended from Jinjiang Shuyuan and Zunjing Shuyuan, both centers of classical learning and set up in 1704 and 1875 respectively. SCU is also a pioneer of modern Chinese higher education. Through the nationwide adjustment of colleges and departments, SCU grew out to be a dominant comprehensive university in literature, historiography, religion, math, biology, etc after the People’s Republic of China was set up. In 1958, it was the only university outside of Beijing that was identified by the Central Government as a university directly under State administration to be used as a model for others. 57
lhasa, tibet
Lhasa, the provincial and ancient capitAl of Tibet, is one of the most storied cities in all of China. It is the traditional home of Tibetan Buddhism, and called home by wandering Tibetan nomads who have survived millennia traipsing across the “roof of the world� -- the Tibetan Plateau. As the highest region in the world, the average elevation of the plateau is 16,000 feet (4,900 meters). Lhasa itself is nestled at the basin of the Nyainqentanglha Mountains. At 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) above sea level, the capital city of the Tibetan Autonomous Region is one of the highest cities on the planet. Considered the holy center of Tibet, thousands of Buddhist pilgrims each year find their way to the city to circumambulate the sacred temples, make countless prostrations, light special yak butter candles, and pray. With towering mountains and rocky valleys, sparkling lakes and muddy rivers, and glaciers hovering above grasslands dotted by yurts, the 58 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Lhasa is the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism. Tibetan plateau offers some of the world’s most breathtaking views. Until recently, the scenery was exclusively reserved for Tibetan nomads and the few willing to brave icy mountain passes. With the completion of the QinghaiTibet railway in July 2006, Tibet has been opened up for tourism and economic expansion. The railway itself is a monumental feat of engineering, recording the highest track in the world, the highest railway tunnel, and over half of its track is laid out on permafrost, which must be painstakingly temperature controlled for safety. With its highest point reaching 16,440 feet (5,072 meters), the train is equipped with oxygen masks and its cabins are specially protected from UV rays. For precaution, all passengers must submit health registration cards. Throughout history, various governing entities have vied for power over Tibet. As a result, Lhasa has become a rich repository of religious, political and cultural heritage. At the heart of the city lies the iconic Potala Palace. Once the traditional home of the Dalai Lama, it is now a destination for both pilgrims and tourists. Dating from the 17th century, this magnificent structure rises out of the Marpo Ri Hill overlooking the city. The now partially-converted museum of Tibetan Buddhist shrines, statues and artifacts also offers a spectacular view of the city and surrounding mountains. The nearby Johkang Temple sits at the heart of the Old City. The temple commemorates the first Tibetan Emperor to convert to Buddhism and is surrounded by the narrow, winding path of the Barkhor, a colorful and busy street that passes through the Old City. Just a short trip outside the city reveals more wonders. The nearby Nam-tso Lake (“Heavenly Lake”) is the highest saltwater lake in the world at 4500 meters. A beautiful sight in and of itself, visitors may also ride a yak or explore nearby Buddhist shrines. Several monasteries are within a day’s trip or less from Lhasa, including the famous Drepung Monastery, considered one of the most important monasteries in Tibetan Buddhism and once housing as many as 7,700 monks. More than just a location for those interested in Tibetan history and culture, Lhasa is also a city for those interested in learning Chinese in an environment of change and excitement. Students at Tibet University are also offered the unique opportunity of enrolling in Tibetan language and culture classes. With the large influx of Chinese immigrants and the increased tourism of the last several years, Lhasa is a city in transition – the possibilities for learning and research increase with each moment. Students interested in studying in Tibet must apply far in advance as there are special restrictions and tourists visas must be prepared. Program availability is highly variable; please inquire for current status.
Studying in Tibet
photo credits ( right, top) china study abroad student program
Tibet University Tibet University (TU) has been actively involved in the scientific research programs of both China and the Tibet Autonomous Region. Many prizes have been rewarded for scientific achievements in the field of Tibetan research, including the collating of folk music, developments in Tibetan Arts, the observation and research of cosmic rays, the development and use of natural resources, and Tibetan demography. The school has had excellent results in developing relations with the outside world. TU has ongoing relations with 10 foreign institutes of higher education. Many teachers have been sent for training abroad and foreign experts and academics have been invited to teach at the school. Foreign students have been admitted for enrollment since 1993. Because of its unique location and commitment to higher learning, TU has excellent conditions for the study of Tibetan language training and customs, available since 1999. Foreign students are also accepted for study in the Tibetan Music and Tibetan Art programs. 59
the up to date prices and deadlines for all cities and programs, please check the China Study Abroad Fees For website at www.chinastudyabroad.org, or inquire at info chinastudyabroad.org for more information. @
TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY
1 semester
1 semester
1 year
1 year
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Campus Dorms - Econo Double
$4,410
$5,550
$9,350
$11,400
Campus Dorms - Single
$6,595
$7,665
$11,790
$13,930
Campus Dorms - Double
$5,230
$6,300
$9,335
$11,475
Program Type
Luxury Apartments - Private
$9,705
$10,775
$17,385
$19,525
Luxury Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$7,920
$8,990
$14,185
$16,325
Luxury Apartments - 3 BR
$7,275
$8,345
$13,020
$15,160
Standard Apartments - Private
$8,170
$9,240
$14,625
$16,765
Standard Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$6,650
$7,720
$11,790
$13,930
Standard Apartments - 3 BR
$5,995
$7,065
$10,745
$12,885
Hotel - Single
$10,900
$11,970
$19,540
$21,680
Hotel - Double
$8,905
$9,975
$15,945
$18,085
Homestay
$6,610
$7,680
$11,810
$13,950
Apartment with Chinese Roommate
$7,535
$8,605
$13,480
$15,620
1 Semester
1 Semester
1 Year
1 Year
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Campus Dorms - Econo Double
$4,550
$5,690
$7,960
$10,040
Campus Dorms - Single
$7,045
$8,115
$12,690
$14,830
Campus Dorms - Double
$5,680
$6,750
$10,235
$12,375
Luxury Apartments - Private
$10,155
$11,225
$18,285
$20,425
Luxury Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$8,370
$9,440
$15,085
$17,225
Luxury Apartments - 3 BR
$7,725
$8,795
$13,920
$16,060
Standard Apartments - Private
$8,620
$9,690
$15,525
$17,665
Standard Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$7,095
$8,165
$12,690
$14,830
Standard Apartments - 3 BR
$6,465
$7,535
$11,645
$13,785
Hotel - Single
$11,350
$12,420
$20,340
$22,480
Hotel - Double
$9,355
$10,425
$16,485
$18,985
Homestay
$7,050
$8,120
$12,695
$14,835
Apartment with Chinese Roommate
$7,985
$9,055
$14,380
$16,520
Peking University Program Type
BLCU
4 Week
4 Week
5 Week
5 Week
6 Week
6 Week
8 Week
8 Week
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Campus Dorms - Econo Double
$2,015
$2,230
$2,150
$2,400
$2,410
$2,710
$3,120
$3,520
Campus Dorms - Single
$2,365
$2,580
$2,685
$2,955
$2,935
$3,255
$4,095
$4,525
Campus Dorms - Double
$2,025
$2,240
$2,235
$2,505
$2,415
$2,735
$3,400
$3,830
Luxury Apartments - Private
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
$5,295
$5,825
Luxury Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
$4,505
$5,170
Luxury Apartments - 3 BR
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
$4,270
$4,850
Standard Apartments - Private
$3,495
$3,710
$3,695
$3,965
$3,795
$4,115
$4,685
$5,115
Standard Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$3,095
$3,310
$3,245
$3,515
$3,345
$3,665
$3,945
$4,375
Standard Apartments - 3 BR
$2,795
$3,010
$2,995
$3,265
$3,095
$3,415
$3,640
$4,170
Hotel - Single
$3,525
$3,740
$4,095
$4,365
$4,395
$4,715
$6,255
$6,685
Hotel - Double
$3,475
$3,690
$3,895
$4,165
$4,195
$4,515
$5,915
$6,345
Homestay
$2,465
$2,680
$2,785
$3,055
$3,085
$3,405
$4,585
$5,015
Apartment with Chinese Roommate
$3,445
$3,660
$3,545
$3,815
$3,395
$3,715
$4,900
$5,330
Program Type
60 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
BLCU
12 Week
12 Week
Semester
Semester
Year
Year
Program Type
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Campus Dorms - Econo Double
$3,490
$4,070
$4,540
$5,680
$7,900
$10,000
Campus Dorms - Single
$4,375
$5,020
$5,995
$7,025
$10,555
$12,695
Campus Dorms - Double
$3,525
$4,170
$4,655
$5,725
$8,915
$11,055
Luxury Apartments - Private
$7,295
$7,940
$9,260
$10,330
$16,585
$18,725
Luxury Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$5,795
$6,440
$7,560
$8,630
$13,535
$15,675
Luxury Apartments - 3 BR
$5,095
$5,740
$6,945
$8,015
$12,425
$14,565
Standard Apartments - Private
$5,670
$6,315
$7,795
$8,865
$13,955
$16,095
Standard Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$4,795
$5,440
$6,295
$7,365
$11,255
$13,395
Standard Apartments - 3 BR
$4,340
$4,985
$5,745
$6,815
$10,265
$12,405
Hotel - Single
$7,665
$8,310
$10,395
$11,465
$18,635
$20,775
Hotel - Double
$6,395
$7,040
$8,495
$9,565
$15,215
$17,355
Homestay
$4,685
$5,330
$6,295
$7,365
$11,255
$13,395
Apartment with Chinese Roommate
$5,880
$6,525
$7,190
$8,260
$12,865
$15,005
1 Semester
1 Semester
4 Weeks
4 Weeks
1 Year
1 Year
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Campus Dorms - Econo Double
$4,160
$5,300
$2,015
$2,150
$7,650
$9,850
Campus Dorms - Single
$5,435
$6,505
$2,295
$2,510
$10,520
$12,660
Campus Dorms - Double
$4,245
$5,315
$2,025
$2,240
$7.745
$9,885
Luxury Apartments - Private
$7,660
$8,730
N/A
N/A
$14,750
$16,890
Luxury Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$6,390
$7,460
N/A
N/A
$12,200
$14,340
Luxury Apartments - 3 BR
$6,240
$7,310
N/A
N/A
$11,995
$14,135
Fudan UNIVERSITY Program Type
Standard Apartments - Private
$6,480
$7,550
$3,150
$3,365
$12,,225
$14,365
Standard Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$5,425
$6,495
$2,730
$2,945
$10.500
$12,640
Standard Apartments - 3 BR
$5,170
$6,240
$2,550
$2,765
$9,815
$11,955
Hotel - Single
$9,490
$10,560
$3,265
$3,480
$18,230
$20,370
Hotel - Double
$7,980
$9,050
$3,175
$3,390
$15,365
$17,505
Homestay
$5,865
$6,935
$2,365
$2,580
$11,340
$13.480
Apartment with Chinese Roommate
$6,680
$7,750
$2,575
$2,790
$12,700
$14,840
1 Semester
1 Semester
5 Weeks
5 Weeks
1 Year
1 Year
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Standard
Intensive
Campus Dorms - Econo Double
$4,165
$5,705
N/A
N/A
$7,950
$9,950
Campus Dorms - Single
$5,630
$6,700
$3,050
$3,320
$10,890
$13,030
Campus Dorms - Double
$4,430
$5,500
$2,860
$3,130
$8,610
$10,750
Luxury Apartments - Private
$7,950
$9,050
N/A
N/A
$15,300
$17,440
JIAOTONG UNIVERSITY Program Type
Luxury Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$6,525
$7,595
N/A
N/A
$12,590
$14,730
Luxury Apartments - 3 BR
$6,320
$7,390
N/A
N/A
$12,100
$14,240
Standard Apartments - Private
$6,640
$7,710
$3,490
$3,760
$12,810
$14,950
Standard Apartments - 2 BR or Suite
$5,710
$6,780
$3,290
$3,560
$11,040
$13,180
Standard Apartments - 3 BR
$5,420
$6,490
$2,995
$3,265
$10,270
$12,410
Hotel - Single
$9,790
$10,860
$3,970
$4,240
$18,800
$20,940
Hotel - Double
$8,185
$9,255
$3,560
$3,830
$15,750
$17,890
Homestay
$6,570
$7,640
$3,330
$3,600
$12,680
$14,820
Apartment with Chinese Roommate
$6,795
$7,865
$3,445
$3,715
$12,920
$15,060 61
Dates Tsinghua University
Peking Univerity
BLCU
BLCU
BLCU
BLCU
Tsinghua University
Peking Univerity
BLCU
BLCU
BLCU Fudan University
Jiaotong University
Fudan University
Jiaotong University
Fudan University
Jiaotong University 62 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Semester Starting Dates
Semester Ending Dates
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Early September
Mid January
May 30th
June 6th
Early February
Late June
December 30th
January 7th
Early September
Mid January
April 1st
April 8th
Early February
Late June
November 1st
December 8th
Late February
Early July
January 31st
January 31st
Early September
Mid July
June 30th
July 7th
4 Week Starting Dates
4 Week Ending Dates
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Late February
Late March
February 10th
February 15th
Late June
Late July
May 10th
May 17th
Late July
Late August
June 15th
June 22nd
Early August
Late August
June 30th
July 7th
6 Week Starting Dates
6 Week Ending Dates
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Early July
Late August
May 31st
June 7th
12 Week Starting Dates
12 Week Ending Dates
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Late March
Mid June
February 10th
February 17th
Early September
Late November
June 30th
July 7th
Year Starting Dates
Year Ending Dates
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Early September
Late June
May 30th
June 6th
Early February
Mid January
December 30th
January 7th
Early September
Late June
April 1st
April 8th
Early February
Mid January
November 1st
December 8th
Late February
Early January
January 31st
January 31st
Early September
Early July
June 30th
July 7th
5 Week Starting Dates
5 Week Ending Dates
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Mid July
Late August
June 15th
June 22nd
Early December
Mid January
October 28th
November 4th
8 Week Starting Dates
8 Week Ending Dates
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Late June
Late August
May 10th
May 17th
Semester Starting Dates
Semester Ending Dates
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Mid February
Mid July
December 20th
December 30th
Early September
Mid January
May 10th
May 18th
Late February
Mid July
January 31st
January 31st
Early September
Mid January
May 10th
May 18th
Year Starting Dates
Year Ending Dates
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Late February
Mid January
December 20th
December 30th
Early September
Mid June
May 10th
May 18th
Late February
Mid January
January 31st
January 31st
Early September
Late June
May 10th
May 18th
4 Week Starting Dates
4 Week Ending Dates
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Early July
Early August
June 4th
June 12th
Early August
Late August
July 1st
July 8th
5 Week Starting Date
5 Week Ending Date
Application Deadline
Payment Deadline
Mid July
Late August
June 10th
June 18th
EXPLANATION OF FEES China Study Abroad’s all inclusive programs offer a wide range of services. Your one time program fee pays for all of the services that extend throughout your stay. Below is a detailed explanation of how your program fees are used by CSA. (For an itemized list of inclusions, please see the “All-Inclusive Programs” on page 5.)
Personalized Predeparture Advising Your CSA program advisor will personally attend to your needs as soon as we have received your application. Each one of our advisors has lengthy experience studying and traveling in China and is adequately prepared to deal with all of your questions. Moreover, our advisors are in constant communication with our staff in China in order to gather specific information regarding your more detailed questions. Our program advisors are also capable of addressing any academic requests, including financial aid, credit transfer, and transcripts.
Visa Advising The cost of a visa to China is approximately $100 USD. This fee is not included in your total program fee because the amount is directly paid to the government of the People’s Republic of China, however, your CSA program advisor will provide step-by-step instructions to ensure your entrance into China. Also, our CSA staff in China will address and assist with any visa extensions or changes that must be dealt with during your length of stay.
Tuition and Fees Once you have paid your program fee, CSA takes care of all necessary registration, tuition, and campus fees. CSA even pays for your textbooks. Dealing with big university bureaucracy is difficult enough in English, let alone in a foreign language. CSA takes the hassle out of applying and paying for school. You just have to attend class and start learning!
photo crediT: (Right) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
Health Insurance All major universities in China require proof of medical coverage. Participants in all CSA programs longer than 4 weeks are insured by the internationally recognized InterGlobal “Student Care” Health and Travel Insurance. This wideranging service includes travel insurance in case of losses during travel such as money, luggage, and documents, as well as diverse medical coverage including
dental and emergency services. For more information please see: www. chinastudyabroad.org/insurance.aspx.
Program Orientation Upon arrival in their city of study, all students on the CSA program will receive a detailed orientation, airport pick up, a welcome pack and a welcome dinner. Included in the welcome pack is a local guidebook, local map, orientation packet, mobile phone, and directions in case of emergency. Participants will benefit from the considerable knowledge of the CSA staff.
24-hour Service Staff members are available 24 hoursa-day to attend to your personal needs. CSA will be your “eyes and ears” in China, smoothing your transition into this foreign country and allowing your attention to be focused on your studies. These services include internship, volunteer, and teaching placement, as well as access to the CSA student lounge where available. Also, if you decide to do any additional touring while in China, CSA staff will be happy to help you arrange your travel and help you purchase any necessary tickets or find accommodations.
the participant’s city of study, but rest assured, that all places of interest in the surrounding area will be included as well as exhibitions such as the Peking Opera or Chinese Acrobatics. On top of these tours, there will also be social events including banquets, bar nights, karaoke nights, and much more. Besides these fun events, there will also be educational lectures and workshops on different aspects of Chinese life and culture.
Returning Home All program participants are guaranteed a final airport drop-off, but CSA services do not end there. CSA alumni still benefit from advising about credit transfers, transcripts, and future studying abroad opportunities. Moreover, CSA alumni have access to the many benefits of the www.chinastudyabroad.org website including forums, blogs, interactive language learning software, and networking. Also, CSA gladly provides any necessary referrals for a participant’s future opportunities in China.
Pre-arranged Housing Weeks before you even arrive in China, your housing will be prepared for your immediate habitation as soon as you arrive at the airport. Rest assured that you will have a comfortable bed waiting for you after your flight, which will be your bed for your remaining time in China. Moreover, your living arrangements will match the exact specifications of your chosen accommodation while also being a reasonable distance from your school of study.
Activities Program participants will be regularly invited to fun activities, at no additional costs, including excursions to local spots of cultural and historic value. These excursions vary based upon 63
scholarship information One of the primary functions at China Study Abroad is to provide an opportunity for students from all over the world to study and live in China. We understand that studying abroad can sometimes be an experience bestowed mainly upon the more privileged, which is why we guarantee the lowest rates and the same, or typically higher, level of service as our competitors. However, financial difficulties may still arise for some of our potential students. In fear that we may be neglecting those that are academically deserving of this experience but lacking the financial means, China Study Abroad offers a “need-based� scholarship. This grant of $1000 for Summer and Semester programs or $2000 for yearlong programs is available only to applicants of the China Study Abroad program who have excelled academically in the face of financial limitations. To further offset financial burden, China Study Abroad also offers free teacher placement to any scholarship student wishing to find employment. To apply for the China Study Abroad scholarship, one must apply to the China Study Abroad program, pay the program application fee AND fill out the attached scholarship form including the Statement of Intent and Personal Essay. (Please send email submissions to admission@ chinastudyabroad.org). Alongside this application, we request that you have your most recent official academic transcript, be it high school or college, mailed by your institution to: CHINA STUDY ABROAD BEIJING OFFICE Hua Qing Gardens, Bldg. #18, 2-201 Cheng Fu Road, Wu Dao Kou Haidian District, Beijing, China 100083 Scholarships are highly competitive and will be accepted on a rolling basis. Applications will not be considered until all forms are received. If the student demonstrates sufficient financial need, he/she may request an application fee waiver.
64 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
scholarship application Name: _____________________________________________________________
Date of Birth: ____________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________ Phone No.: ____________________________________
E-mail: _______________________________________
Most Recent Academic Institution: __________________________________________________________________ Institution Address: _____________________________________________________________________________ Field of Study: __________________________________
Dates Attended (Month and Year): ___________________
Level of Education Completed: ____________________________________________
Cumulative GPA: __________
Languages Spoken: 1. ___________________ (Native, Fluent, Conversational)
2. ___________________ (Native, Fluent, Conversational)
3. ___________________ (Native, Fluent, Conversational)
4. ___________________ (Native, Fluent, Conversational)
Please answer both essay prompts and attach them alongside your application. 1. Statement of Intent (900 – 1,000 words) What are your specific reasons for wanting to study in China? How have your past experiences helped shape this decision? And, how do you plan to make the most of this experience if you do receive this grant? For students more creatively inclined, China Study Abroad also encourages original video submissions that address the prompt of the statement of intent. These videos should be under ten minutes and uploaded to a video sharing site such as YouTube or Google Video, to which the student can send an online link to the admissions panel. 2. Personal Essay (500 – 600 words) Please describe in detail any financial or personal difficulties you have faced in your lifetime that have been a hindrance to your academic and/or social development.
I, __________________________________________, do hereby confirm any and all statements provided in the attached essays and above-answered questions to be true. If at a later date, any falsifications are found, I revoke my right to the scholarship and all application fees. Signature: __________________________________________________________
Date:___________________ 65
Giving back
China Study Abroad is committed to providing educational opportunities for Chinese students as well as international students. Each year CSA allocates a portion of its budget and resources to improving education in rural China. CSA’s efforts fall into three major categories: donations, volunteer work, and development.
Donations The largest problem when it comes to global education is a lack of funding. To combat this, CSA sends a percentage of its yearly profits directly to rural schools and orphanages in China. The most recent beneficiaries of the charity was the Golog Orphanage in Qinghai Province. Recently founded in 2004, the orphanage takes in children regardless of ethnicity, gender, and religious affiliation. Because of its location on the Tibetan Plateau, the vast majority of students are Tibetan who were either abandoned by their parents or had parents unable to care for them. The Golog Orphanage was founded by a Tibetan from the region who was also an orphan who raised funds after immigrating to Europe. Children of the orphanage are guaranteed college funding if admitted, which is not an easy task for children in this poverty-stricken area. CSA has made multiple donations to the orphanage, including school supplies, clothing, toys, and sporting goods. While the orphanage is currently building bigger and better facilities, the orphanage’s largest 66 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
needs remain facility upgrades and education supplies. Due to its location on the frigid Tibetan Plateau, one of the orphanage’s most egregious expenses is heating costs. Other schools that have benefitted from the CSA volunteer and charity trips include the Zixing Elementary School in Hunan Province as well as the Shilin Boarding School of Yunnan Province. For photographs, videos and more information please see the CSA website.
Volunteering CSA also works with various organizations to send volunteers to rural schools throughout China. All CSA students have the opportunity to volunteer in rural schools on the CSA Bi-annual Volunteer Trip. (For more information see “Volunteering” on page 26). CSA staff members also work with these schools to develop their volunteering programs, infrastructure, and publicity.
Development CSA’s primary charitable focus is its development of community schools in impoverished areas. Our current project is the CSA Community
School in Golog, which promotes community and cultural awareness. As an area of ongoing ethnic and religious tension between the Hui people, Tibetans and Han Chinese, Golog is in desperate need of such a community center. Founded and overseen by famed human rights activist Wenzhou Hou, the school is in its opening stages. Funded entirely by donations from CSA, the community school admits students regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, and religion. The school teaches basic classes in literacy, hygiene, and arts while also promoting ideas of cross-cultural collaboration entirely free of charge. The goals of the community school are to promote community awareness and provide upward mobility for community members lacking fundamental life and working skills. CSA hopes that the Golog Community School is the first of many community centers initiated by the efforts of CSA and its constituents, galvanizing its lofty ideals of a truly global education. For more information on the school and updates from the headmaster Wenzhou Hou, please check the CSA website for her blog.
67
photo crediTs: (ALL, both pages) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
student feedback Anna Maitland & Abigail Ko
Noah Meyerson
Liana Sun & Connie Chen
Rebecca Wirakesuma
Ye-mong To
Matthew T. McDonald
68 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Lynn Nguy & Jessica Martin
Mike Antoniuk
Arielle Sadan
“To the China Study Abroad Staff: Thanks for assisting me and helping me adjust to the way of life in Beijing. I really appreciate all your effort to make the students of your program feel comfortable during their stay here.” — Abigail Ko, 22 • Undergraduate • Manila, Philippines • Semester Mandarin Studies “Before starting the CSA program, I had already come to Beijing once for a shorter, month long program organized by another company. My experience up until now with CSA has been much better than my previous one. From the responsiveness and professionalism of CSA staff to the variety of interesting programs that CSA offers, I have been very impressed with the program and would certainly recommend CSA to anyone wanting to optimize their time here in Beijing.” — Noah Meyerson, 24 • Professional • San Diego, U.S.A. • Tsinghua University M.B.A. Program “My experience with CSA was super amazing! Overall I thoroughly enjoyed myself. The coordinators did a wonderful job of making sure new participants felt included and at home. After we got the ball rolling we had no trouble at all at making friends and enjoying ourselves, while learning basics in the Chinese Language.” — Liana Sun, 19 • Santa Monica, California • Summer Study and Travel Program “Of all the different places that I have traveled to and lived in, I was most nervous about coming to China. The combination of not being confident in my Chinese abilities and my concerns about the logistics of life in a foreign country with a foreign bureaucracy was very daunting (not to mention my parents’ enthusiasm about expressing their many concerns about my stay here). So, when my Chinese professor at university told me about how CSA takes care of many of the overwhelming tasks involved with coming to China, I was both excited and relieved. I still think that working with CSA to come to China was the best decision I could have made.” — Rebecca Wirakesuma, 22 • Surabaya, Indonesia “Leaving CSA to take care of finding an apartment, university enrollment, and much of the visa application process allowed me to focus on enjoying my experience in China and improving my Chinese. On top of that, I have met so many friends through CSA’s social gatherings and outings (which include but are not limited to going to the Great Wall, Summer Palace, Chinese Opera, and riding dangerously fast and unsteady rickshaws through Beijing’s alleyways). Probably the biggest advantage of signing up with CSA is the peace of mind that I have—I know that if I get sick, or am in an accident, or there is a problem with school or my visa, the wonderful people at CSA know what to do and will help me to resolve the problem quickly and painlessly!” — Ye-mong To, 24 • Eastbourne, England • Intensive Mandarin Study “I am sad to be leaving China, as the last two weeks passed quickly and there is so much more to see and learn. The CSA staff worked hard at helping me learn Mandarin Chinese, setting up tours, helping me with day-to-day living, but especially with making me feel welcome and seeing the authentic China! My biggest regret is not having more time to learn and visit. Having a one-on-one tutor was priceless as they worked on my phonetics and grammar structure. I would recommend learning and visiting China with CSA to others!” — Mike Antoniuk, 48 Alberta, Canada, Short Term Mandarin Study
photo crediTs: (ALL, LEFT) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
“The service was great. I always felt that I was a phone call away from the staff. They consistently responded to my needs and questions with haste and the utmost courtesy.” — Matthew T. McDonald, 30 • Graduate Student • Knoxville, U.S.A. • Summer Program “The accommodations were really great, thanks for sorting out duvets, sheets etc., in the apartment, which was in an awesome location, better than I’d expected. Even the hotels along the way traveling through China were so every choice of accommodation throughout had a perfect location, with lots of do locally, and it’s also nice that you position the students in the same or nearby apartment complexes, which made meeting easier and it gives you something to do if you’re bored.” — Jessica Martin, 20 • Undergraduate • London, United Kingdom • Summer Study and Travel Program “My third day, right before school started, I was on the phone with my parents at the welcome dinner, begging them to let me go home, but when they refused over and over again, I insisted I would find a way out of China. Then, Laura, a CSA representative, took me aside and gave me her number. It was all I needed to convince me to stay. That, and of course a big hug from someone I had never met before. That someone turned out to be one of the nicest people I have ever met, and he represented another diverse culture that CSA was able to attract. My summer with CSA was the best of my life, and I hope to come back soon!” — Arielle Sadan, 17 • High School • New York, U.S.A. • High School Program
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application procedure 1. Select your city
6. Pay program deposit and application fee
China Study Abroad offers study abroad programs in 13 of China’s most dynamic cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Kunming, Qingdao, Tianjin, Hangzhou, Dalian, Nanjing, Guilin, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Lhasa. No matter where you choose to study, CSA will provide everything you need to have an enjoyable and educational experience in China.
Bank transfer, credit card, check, Google Checkout, or PayPal -- it’s up to you! Combining our online application with our convenient payment options, applicants can provide all of their information and program fees at once, without the need to mail or fax a single document.
2. Select your program
Depending upon your university of choice, we will require that you scan and email, or fax several documents to us for your university registration. These documents include a passport-sized photograph, proof that you are a high school graduate (such as a college transcript, high school or university diploma), a copy of your passport, and in some cases a teacher recommendation.
With over 12 programs to choose from, you can find the study abroad experience that fits you perfectly. Study Mandarin full time, combine your language studies with an internship, prepare for a career doing business in China, teach English, volunteer your time to help those less fortunate, train in martial arts, or customize your own program. No matter which you choose, you’re guaranteed CSA’s all-inclusive services.
3. Select your university With a selection of over 20 universities and private schools you are sure to find one that matches your needs and interests. For more information, please see the university descriptions in each city page and/or contact us at info@ chinastudyabroad.org for help finding the school most befitting your language learning needs.
4. Select your accommodation From a shared university dorm to private luxury apartments, CSA can accommodate every need and taste. We also offer the option of homestay to maximize your language learning 24 hours a day. Or, if you prefer not to live with a family, you can choose our young Chinese professional homestay option. Rest assured that all of our apartments, families and individual roommates are pre-screened for suitability.
5. Apply online or by fax It takes only minutes to fill out our online application at www.chinastudyabroad.org. Once received, we can secure your place at the school of your choice and reserve your housing. If you’d like to send it through fax, please send the completed application form to 1-888-219-8597. Make sure to include your contact information so that we can continue the application process!
70 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
7. Send us your documentation
8. Apply for your Chinese Visa Go to your local Chinese Embassy or Consulate (listed at www.chinastudyabroad.org/consulates.aspx) and apply for a student or tourist visa. CSA will send your university admission documents to you and advise you on all visa preparation. It is possible to have your tourist visa changed to a student visa upon arrival in China. Alternatively, if you are unable to visit the embassy in person, visa services are available. For more information check out our online visa information page at www.chinastudyabroad.org/visaapp. aspx.
9. Pay the remainder of your program cost (if you haven’t already) This should be the point where you make sure you have paid us the full cost of your program. This can be done via bank transfer, credit card, check, Google checkout, or PayPal.
10. Purchase your ticket The final step is to purchase your ticket. Please make sure you inform CSA of your travel details, so we can make sure to have someone to meet you at the airport and make certain all other arrangements are in order. For more information about finding a ticket to China see our online airfare page at (www.chinastudyabroad.org/airfare.aspx). Welcome to China!
China study abroad application NAME Last: (Surname) _____________________________ First: (Given) _________________________________________ Middle: ___________________________________ Title: __________________ Gender (circle one): Male or Female CHINESE NAME (If you have one. If not, we will assign one to you.) Characters:_________________________________ Pin Yin: ____________________________________________ PROGRAM City: ______________________________________ University Applying for: ________________________________ Program Selection: ______________________________________________________________________________ Program Duration: ______________________________________________________________________________ Program Start Date: ___________________________ Program End Date: ____________________________________ Program Hours: ______________________________ Standard Intensive: ___________________________________ Program Code: (details) ___________________________________________________________________________ ACCOMMODATION Accommodation Choice: ________________________ Accommodation Start Date: _____________________________ Accommodation End Date: ______________________ Do You Smoke? (circle one): Yes or No Do you prefer to live in a non-smoking room? (circle one): Yes or No or Doesn't Matter CURRENT ADDRESS Street/Apt.#: ____________________________________________________________ District:________________ City: ______________________________________ State/Province: ________________ Country: _______________ Zip/Postal Code: _____________________________ PERMANENT ADDRESS: Check if same as CURRENT ADDRESS Street/Apt.#: ____________________________________________________________ District:________________ City: ______________________________________ State/Province: ________________ Country: _______________ Zip/Postal Code: _____________________________ TELEPHONE / FAX / E-MAIL: Home Telephone (with country code): ___________________________ Work Telephone: _________________________ Fax: _________________________ Cell Phone: _________________ E-mail: ________________________________ 71
PERSONAL INFORMATION: (All information will be kept confidential. For more info see our privacy policy.) Date of Birth: __________________ Age Range (circle one): Under 18 | 18-65 | Over 65 City of Birth: ___________________ Marital Status (circle one): Single or Married Native Language: _________________________________________ Nationality (Passport Country): _______________ Country of Birth: Same as Nationality or, if not the same, please fill in: _________________________________________ Passport #: ____________________ Expiration Date: __________________________ ACADEMIC INFORMATION: Educational Level: ________________________________ Current or Last School: _____________________________ Date you attended/completed most recent academic institution: _____________________________________________ EMPLOYMENT: Occupation: ____________________________________ Current or Last Employer: ____________________________ Date you worked for most recent employer: _____________ MEDICAL CONDITIONS / DIETARY REQUIREMENTS: Please tell us about any allergies, medications, chronic conditions etc.: ________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Please tell us about any special dietary requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan, Kosher, Muslim, etc.: _______________________ EMERGENCY CONTACT: First Name (Given): ________________________________ Last Name (Surname): _____________________________ Relationship to Applicant: ________________ Occupation: ________________ Home Telephone: __________________ Employer: ____________________________ Work Telephone: __________________ Fax: _____________________ E-mail: ______________________________ Address: _________________________________________________ City: ___________________ State/Province: ___________ Country: __________________ Zip/Postal Code: ________ Will this person also serve as your financial guarantor in China (circle one): Yes or No Name of Financial Guarantor, if different from Emergency Contact: ___________________________________________ Relationship to Applicant: ________________________________ Occupation: _______________________________ Home Telephone: ______________________________________ Employer: _________________________________ Work Telephone: ______________________________________ Fax: _____________________________________ E-mail: ___________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________ City: __________________ State/Province: _____________ Country: _______________ Zip/Postal Code: __________
72 | CHINA STUDY ABROAD
CURRENT LEVEL OF MANDARIN CHINESE: Have you previously studied the Chinese Mandarin language? (circle one): Yes or No If yes, please state the name of the institution/school: ____________________________________________________ Hours Studied Per Week: _______ Level: _______ Approximately how many Simplified Characters do you know?: ________ Traditional Characters:________________ Other Chinese Dialects Known (circle one): Cantonese | Shanghainese | Other Do you require an official Transcript for credit? (circle one): Yes or No Are you receiving credit for this course from your university? (circle one): Yes or No If yes, how many credit hours? _______ FOR MARTIAL ARTS ONLY: List Preference of form(s) or style(s): _________________________________________________________________ Level and Years of Experience: _____________________________________________________________________ HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT US: Method: _____________________________________________________________________________________ Detail: _______________________________________________________________________________________ Have you participated in another China Study Abroad program before? (circle one): Yes or No ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: Please include any additional information you feel we should be aware of (i.e. Joint Application-state name of joint applicant; special needs; other requests regarding accommodation etc.): _______________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ APPLICANT SIGNATURE: I declare that: The above information provided and documents given in support of my Application are complete, true and correct. I agree to abide by the laws of the People's Republic of China and agree not to engage in any illegal activities during my academic pursuit in China. I have read and I accept China Study Abroad's Terms and Conditions for Program Participants. I agree to observe and accept all Rules, Regulations and Conditions of the host schools / institutes / organizations. I have read and I accept the Terms and Conditions for Insurance and Medical Membership.
Applicant signature
Date of signature
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT OR PARENT (for ages 17 and under) I agree with the declarations stated above (circle one): Yes or No
Applicant signature
Date of signature
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www.CHINASTUDYABROAD.ORG Photos and Video Choosing where to study is a big decision, and it’s hard to know what you’re getting until you’ve arrived. At chinastudyabroad.org you can see what we’re all about without leaving home! Check out thousands of photos and videos of our current and past students to see what life is like in China and the kind of experiences you can expect if you join one of our programs.
Community Join our Facebook group, read student blogs and post questions to our forum. At CSA we believe in the value of creating a community of students, but we don’t wait until you’re in China. Join Facebook to meet future classmates or find people to room with, pose any questions you may have to students and staff on our forum, and read the blogs of past participants to get a better idea of what life will be like in China through the experiences of previous students. We also strive to create an alumni network of past students in case you want to chat with someone directly or forgot to get someone’s contact info before heading home! Payment Methods PayPal, Google Checkout, Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Check, Money Order, Western Union. If the payment method exists, we probably accept it...
Interactivity Did you camp out at the Great Wall, eat a scorpion on a stick, or have an amazing night out and want to share it? You can win prizes like and iPod Mini or Flip video camera by uploading your pictures and videos to our website, while at the same time proving to everyone at home that you really did try eating snake on a stick.
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Frequently Asked Questions Q: I would like to travel to other parts of China while I’m studying, can CSA help? A: Absolutely, we have a travel section on this website and we would be happy to help you to make arrangements for travel within China. At CSA we pride ourselves on offering our students a wide range of services and help, which we hope will make their time in China an unforgettable one. As always please feel free to contact us with any questions. Q: What are your admission requirements? A: The general requirements are: • Aged between 18-60 (except for specific programs such as the youth adventure, high school or group/tailor programs) • Have completed high school or equivalent (exceptions are sometimes granted) Q: Can I receive university/college credit for course work completed in your program? A: China Study Abroad program participants can transfer the credits earned in China to their home institutions. All the universities & academies in CSA’s programs are preeminent in their fields, and have cooperative arrangements with numerous universities and research institutions around the world. The universities that program participants attend are internationally accredited; therefore most international universities accept credit received from these schools. Many of our students in the past have received credit for their coursework completed here. CSA assists students in obtaining any information and documentation required supporting their request for course credit. Of course, the final decision to offer academic credit is up to your university. Program participants are encouraged to check with their home institution’s credit transfer requirements. Q: Do I receive a diploma or transcript for courses completed? A: Yes. Diplomas and transcripts are available; however, this is dependent on the university and course you choose. Q: What is the best school to study at? Which city should I study in? A: Each city and school has its unique advantages. Students seeking a cosmopolitan feel, with large student populations, and the most CSA activities would be best served attending programs in Beijing or Shanghai. Those looking for a completely immersive experience in which they rarely hear any English at all often choose to go to smaller cities such as Kunming or Xi’an. Q: What happens when I arrive at the airport? A: All students who come to China through our programs are met at the airport by a CSA representative. Once you have booked your course, CSA takes care of all your needs, including an airport pick up and drop off. Just inform us of your arrival details and we will be there. More information and detailed orientations are provided during the application process, but please always feel free to contact us at any time with you questions. Q: My course is booked in a city for which I cannot get a direct flight too, what should I do? A: This is not a problem. Once you book a course, CSA will work closely with you to make sure you arrive at the proper destination and in good time. Most students, if they are unable to find a direct flight to their chosen city, arrive in Beijing or Shanghai and book connections from there. CSA will be happy to help you with travel arrangements should the need arise, prices vary depending on mode of transport and destination. Q: What kind of visa do I need and where do I apply for one? A: Students coming to China will require a visa. The type of visa will be dependent on the length of your stay in China: Students studying in China for less than 6 months require an F visa, which is also known as a business visa. Students studying in China for more than 6 months require an X visa, also known as a student visa. X visas require a medical check-up. Students who don’t have time or are unable to apply for and F or X visa, may apply for an L visa or tourist visa. Once the student has arrived in China, CSA will help the student convert the visa to one that is more suitable to their requirements whilst in China.
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asia study abroad Starting in Fall 2010, China Study Abroad is proud to present several study abroad programs throughout Asia with its partner Asia Study Abroad. As the world’s largest continent, Asia contains more than 60% of the world’s population and yet most of it remains unknown to those living in the West. In this increasingly globalized world, several of these countries have become necessary cogs in the world economy and trading systems. These regions will undoubtedly shape the 21st century. Studying and living in Asia is an invaluable experience, providing insight and life skills that will prepare any student for a future in any field. Language and university courses are offered in many of these countries and locations. These inclusive study abroad programs come with the same high level of professionalism and customer service found in CSA. Please see www.asiastudyabroad.org for more details.
HONG KONG
taiwan
south korea
Government: Chief Executive Official Languages: English, Chinese Population: 6,921,700 Density: 6,352 people square km Area: 1,104 square km GDP: US $203.0 billion Currency: Hong Kong dollar (HKD)
Capital: Taipei Government: Presidential Republic Official Language: Mandarin Chinese Population: 22,911,292 Area: 36,188 square km GDP: US $364,563 billion Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (NT$)
Capital: Seoul Government: Presidential Republic Official Language: Korean Population: 49,024,737 Area: 99,646 square km GDP: US $897.4 billion Currency: Won (KRW)
Recently returned to the People’s Republic of China in 1997 after 100 years of British colonial rule, Hong Kong is one of the most cosmopolitan cities on the planet and a travel hub for all of Asia. With almost 7 million people packed into one city, Hong Kong boasts the highest effective population density on the planet. It is a global hub of cultural and economic exchange. In fact, to get a job at a convenience store in Hong Kong, an employee must speak English, Cantonese and Mandarin. The city’s dramatic financial turnaround after WWII made it one of the economic miracles of Asia and is included as one of the “Four Asian Tigers” for its dramatic economic growth rate in the latter 20th century. Hong Kong also boasts some of the best universities in Asia, including Hong Kong University, Chinese University of Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. The city boasts the highest GDP in all of China as well as the most efficient transportation system in the world, while also serving as the entertainment capital for the rest of Asia.
Once known solely as a “banana republic,” Taiwan experienced an economic transformation during the late 20th century becoming one of the “Four Asian Tigers,” alongside Singapore, Hong Kong and South Korea. Known as the “Taiwan Economic Miracle,” the rapid annual growth rate between 1952 to 1982 averaged 8.7%. When the Kuomingtang (KMT) government of mainland China fled to Taiwan in 1949, they brought along the mainland’s reserves of gold as well as the intellectual and business elites, creating an effective brain drain on China that would prove very valuable in economic growth later on. Because Taiwan was spared the effects of the cultural revolution on mainland China, it is a bastion of traditional Chinese culture including calligraphy, painting, folk art and Chinese opera. Also, traditional written Chinese characters are still used and taught there today. What often goes unsaid about Taiwan is that it is a beautiful tropical island, flushed with verdant forests and mountains to the interior.
Another member of the “Four Asian Tigers,” South Korea didn’t win its complete independence until 1945, when the peninsula was liberated from 35 years of Japanese occupation. Despite previous assurances that the peninsula would remain united, the Cold War powers divided the country roughly along the 38th parallel. After a brutal civil war that claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, South Korea has risen from the ashes of centuries of abuse by foreign powers to become one of the world’s great economic powers, including numerous wars against the Chinese and Japan. Despite the influence of its imperialist neighbors, South Korea has a unique culture that is still seen as the great trendsetter throughout Asia today. One of Korea’s greatest innovations is its phonetic written script, Hangul, created by King Sejong the Great in 1446 to increase literacy among the common people and to promote an independent Korean identity. Hangul script is among the world’s most modern and easiest to learn.
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Japan
vietnam
Capital: Hanoi Government: Socialist Republic Official Language: Vietnamese Population: 87,375,000 Area: 331,690 square km GDP: US $60,995 million Currency: Dong (VND) Capital: Tokyo Government: Constitutional Monarchy and Parliamentary Democracy Official Language: Japanese Population: 127,433,494 Area: 377,873 square km GDP: US $4.911 trillion Currency: Yen (JPY) There is not much left to be said about the “land of the rising sun” that has not already been meticulously detailed. This island nation dominated the Pacific and Asia throughout the early 20th century, was at the mercy of western powers after its defeat in WWII, was the victim of the world’s only nuclear bombings, and ultimately resurrected itself to become the second strongest economy on the globe with an annual GDP of 4.911 trillion dollars. Japan is arguably the backbone of the Asian economy and was the first economic “miracle” of Asia. After nearly colonizing all of Asia in the early 20th century, Japan now leads Asia by economic example through its technological innovation and high quality products. The country’s leading export may actually be its celebrated culture which includes ninja, samurai, sumo, karaoke, video games, manga, and sushi! Japan was also the first Asian nation to break into the modern Western art world with its great film directors Akira Kurosawa, Yasujiro Ozu, and Kenji Mizoguchi who paved the way for a flourishing national cinema considered among the world’s finest.
With an economic growth rate second only to China in East Asia, Vietnam followed its northern neighbor’s freemarket economic reforms with great success and now finds itself listed by Goldman Sachs investment bank in 2005 among the “Next Eleven” nations prime for investment and future growth. Mostly known to Westerners for being the only nation to defeat the United States in modern military battle, Vietnam will soon be better known for its economic prowess and domination of the Southeast Asian economy. That is not to say that the Vietnamese are not proud of their military prowess—the nation’s two greatest heroes Ngô Quyen and Ho Chi Minh successfully gained independence by expelling foreign powers in the face of overwhelming odds. After a millennium of subjugation by the Chinese, the Vietnamese gained independence in 938 AD after defeating the Chinese in the battle of Bach Dang River. Ngô predicted that the Chinese would send its navy down the river and ambushed the armada by hiding thousands of wooden pikes below the high tide of the river and baiting the Chinese ships into the deathtrap, which immobilized the entire flotilla and resulted in overwhelming Vietnamese victory. Similarly, in 1954 the Viet Minh communist revolutionary forces defeated the French army at the battle of Dien Bien Phu by dragging heavy artillery over mountain crests to bombard the French base below, effectively ending over a century of colonial rule.
india
Capital: New Delhi Government: Parliamentary Democracy Official Languages: Hindi, English Population: 1.12 billion Area: 3,287,590 km GDP: US $4.164 trillion Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) Despite the Indian sub-continent being the home of ancient civilizations and the origin of 4 of the world’s major religions, India as an inclusive ethnic and cultural identity has only existed since the time of British colonization beginning in 1856. This is relatively recent compared to the history of civilization on the subcontinent, which began over 9000 years ago. Before Western colonization, India was a series of separate kingdoms with distinct languages, cultures, and civilizations. However, since the independence movement spearheaded by Mahatma Ghandi, a distinctive Indian national identity took root, and upon gaining sovereignty in 1947, India was proud to declare itself the world’s largest democracy. Ethnic and religious tension as well as rampant poverty still abound in modern India. However, an increasingly optimistic view is shared by the nation’s denizens as they look towards a bright future, harbingered by one of the world’s fastest economic growth rates and the world’s 12th largest economy. India is also the new home of technology, as corporations around the world continually outsource their work to the capable and educated Indian work force. Aside from it’s bright economic outlook, India is also home to several of the world’s oldest and richest cultures. This bastion of civilization is among the world’s most interesting and diverse places. 77
Experience Matters China Study Abroad Cities BEIJING
LHASA, TIBET
CHENGDU
NANJING
DALIAN
QINGDAO
GUANGZHOU
SHANGHAI
GUILIN
TIANJIN
HANGZHOU
XI’AN
XI'AN
Terracotta Warrior
KUNMING
Chengdu
Wolong Conservation Area
Lhasa, Tibet
Tibetian prayer flags
Kunming
Kunming Flower Market
Guilin
Banyan Lake Pagodas
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Tianjin
Women's World Cup
Dalian
Russian Street Market
Beijing
The Forbidden City
Qingdao
photo credits: (Dalian) Paul Johns, www.flickr.com/photos/snoshuu/354502696 | (qingdao) erase rewind, www.flickr.com/photos/utterlyutter/2424046387/in/pool-qingdao | (SHANGHAI & TIANJIN) CSA STUDENT PROGRAM
Beach Resorts
Shanghai
NANJING
Dancing on the Bund
Water Townships
HANGZHOU Lingyin Temple
GUANGZHOU
Fishing on the Pearl River
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CHINA STUDY ABROAD
Study, Volunteer, Teach , Experience... ®
Studying abroad in China is an inexpensive, life-changing opportunity to learn a new language, experience a new culture, and gain new perspective on our changing world. Speed down alleyways on your Beijing bicycle, devour dumplings in the shadow of a Shanghai skyscraper, trek through the lush landscapes of Kunming’s mountain forests, and see a nation transformed. China’s reemergence upon the global stage makes learning Mandarin more essential than ever before. Join CSA in one of thirteen diverse and dynamic cities across the Chinese mainland. A lifetime of experiences await!
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China Study Abroad
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UNITED KINGDOM China Study Abroad Phone 0800-011-2696 (Toll Free) FAX 0800-011-2697 E-Mail info@chinastudyabroad.org
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