First day of classes
Trip Start
May 28, 2008
1
5
16
Trip End
Aug 02, 2008
Shanghai,
China
Monday, June 2, 2008
Yesterday we signed our "language pledge" which means no more English, only Chinese for the next two months. It's been hard so far, but also amusing because we're not very well versed. Most of the time I don't say anything because I don't know how to say it in Chinese. This morning was the first day of classes, and it was a lot harder than I thought. We have three 1 hour long classes in a row with different teachers and different lessons. By the third class, I was completely blank. I could barely understand anything. We have about 40 new vocab words to memorize every night, so it's really hard to try and remember. However, I really like my classmates and teachers so it's ok. It's just hard to imagine that I can actually do this. Tonight at 6:30 I have a one-on-one discussion with a teacher to practice speaking.
On another note, I am becoming obsessed with bubble tea. There is a shop in the nearest cafeteria and right outside the school gate so it's easy to get. I'm not really satisfied with the food. I have inadvertently become a vegetarian just because I can't figure out what the dishes are, so I opt for the noodles or dumplings. The food is nothing like american Chinese food... it's hard to explain. Also, eateries don't have napkins or drinks, which is a hassle. Drinking water is something I won't take for granted again- I had to buy a big jug and carry it back. Also there are no cold drinks here, everything is warm. Another interesting fact- Chinese people use umbrellas in the sun because they don't want to tan. It's opposite of America- the fairer the skin, the better.
I should start studying because last night I waited far too long and ended up staying up too late. My roommate also needs to use the internet- we only have one port so we have to take turns.
Zaijian,
lauren
Comments
Nimen hao
Zaijin (?) to you too, Lauren
I believe I may have taken you for your first bubble drink in NYC I can stil recall the look on your face - one of quizzical amusement. I love it too, especially the jasmine tea drink. It may even be healthy, who knows.
I remember blanking out on French. It would happen when I was on overload and also over desirous to speak the language! I also used to try to absorb 40 words a day and it was a very helpful method.
Aunt Lisa xx
Re: Nimen hao
Why yes, I do recall my first bubble drink in NYC. I'm glad I had that experience already so that it's not another enigma for me here. I'm worried about the calories though- they taste so good! The method they use is quite amazing- after adding the ingredients, the put the cup in a machine that puts a plastic seal on top and you have to puncture the top with a jumbo straw. It's quite fun.