CHINA

Country Overview:

"A land of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet rapid modernization, and delectable cuisine coexists with complex political realities."

My seven-year journey in China, from May 2013 to August 2020, was a whirlwind of experiences. I taught English, pursued my Master's in Politics & Foreign Policy at the prestigious Tsinghua University, and immersed myself in the media landscape at China Today and Xinhua News Agency. Beijing was my home base, but my travels painted a vibrant tapestry of China's diverse landscapes and cultures: the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, the historic city of Xi'an, the tropical paradise of Sanya, the unique blend of East and West in Macau and Hong Kong, and countless other destinations in between. From savoring the exquisite flavors of regional cuisines to navigating the intricacies of daily life under a distinct political system, China left an indelible mark on me.

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Words for 2018

Here are some words I liked from 2018:

  • Capricious - Determined by chance it whim rather than by necessity

  • Rube - A person who is not very intelligent or interested in culture

  • Copacetic - Completely satisfactory

  • Louche - Disreputable or sordid in a rakish or appealing way.

  • Cogent  - Clear, logical, convincing (of an argument / case)

  • Remonstrate - To make a forcefully reproachful protest

  • Indefatigable - Persisting tirelessly

  • Persiflage - Light and slightly contemptuous mockery or banter

  • Inimical - Tending to obstruct or harm

  • Viviparous - Bringing forth live young that have developed inside the body of the parent

  • Pernicious - Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way

  • Bumptious - Self-assertive or proud to an irritating degree

  • Recalcitrant - Having an obstinately uncooperative attitude toward authority or discipline

  • Incipient - In an initial stage; beginning to happen or develop

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Correct..

Me:So what do you eat during the morning?
Student:Breakfast
Me:What do you eat at night?
Student:Dinner
Me:What do you eat during the afternoon?
Student:Fish

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Ladies & Gentlemen, Mr. Tom Ripley

So no, none of the Chinese teachers nor parents got the costume, but my American coworkers gave me props. Of course, I’m sure the name tag helped

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Halloween day 2 at our center

Had students try and make balloon towers using only tape. They didn’t get too far with a ‘tape as fast as possible’ game plan. Also did a 'mummy-wrapping’ race that they thought was hilarious. Round 3 mañana

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Close but not quite...

Student 1: I am happy!
Student 2: I am angry!
Me: What am I?
Student 3: You are Chinese boy!

Didn't see that one coming

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