An Experience to Remember

      外教Barbara和Clifford系一对年轻夫妻，他们婚后即来到临沂一中国际部任教。这是他们人生第一次出国，他们所接触到的临沂人对他们来说就是中国人。在临沂一中工作、生活期间，临沂一中和临沂这座城市给他们留下了美好的印象。回国前，他们特地写了《难忘的经历》、《中国文化》和《在临沂一中工作》与大家分享。寒假之后，他们将在俄罗斯工作，祝福他们在一个陌生的国度再次找到家一样的感觉。

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

Almost from the moment I boarded my flight, I knew that my life was about to change. Seatbelt signs lit up, problems switched off; broken armrests took precedence over broken hearts. By the time the plane was airborne I’d forgotten that my old life even existed.

Landing in China I immediately found that there were so many differences, over friendly people that won’t stop taking photos, the crazy traffic and ending with the amazing food...”this is going to be fun”  I thought to myself.

Upon arriving in Linyi after shaking of fear from the 11 hour train ride I saw the beautiful lakes, met wonderful people. They say that home is where the heart is, I immediately felt at home.

I wanted to travel and live abroad for as long as I can remember. I’ve always been naturally drawn to the unknown, including other cultures, ways of life, languages and perspectives. I knew from an early age that, as an adult, I would do whatever I could to see the world. While there is still much of the globe to explore, I was fortunate to have had the chance to teach in China in 2018 – 2019

In the years leading up to my arrival in China, I heard of countless stories of fellow westerners who had taught there. I knew from the start that I was destined to teach in China.

I was lucky enough to receive an opportunity to teach at Linyi No.1 Middle School. And that is where my journey began.

Linyi No.1 Middle School is an amazing school with strong leaders, smart devoted teachers and challenging but adoring students.

My first day was so terrifying, I did not know what to do or where to go; but I received help from the teachers, this made me feel right at home.

The first thing I realised was that there is such a huge difference between Chinese and South African students, even the classrooms are different.  Firstly I was amazed by the number of hours these students work. No school uniforms or heavy suitcases, watching movies in class and the close relationship these students have with the teachers and each other.

I strongly believe that if at some point you don’t ask yourself ”what have I gotten myself into”  then you’re not doing it right. This is exactly how I felt when I started teaching.

Running track, trying to play basketball, learning new songs and teaching students who don’t always understand what I am saying are just some of the things that I had to get used to.

Teaching at Linyi No. 1 Middle School was an amazing experience, it was hard and tough but wonderful at the same time, and this was a time in my life that I will always look back at with fondness.

Let your heart guide you, It whispers....so listen closely.

By Barbara