Verusha Naidoo On Why She Chose China

Hi Guys

I apologise for the late blog post. I’ve been having some computer issues for the past few days. However all is back on track and we’re ready to roll….all the way to China!

In September last year I travelled to China for the first time to teach English as a second language. Before I left I was interviewed by a South African news writer, who later wrote a newspaper article on my decisions for choosing China. Below you will find the interview questions and answers as well as a link to the newspaper article.

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Verusha Naidoo On Why She Chose China?

Why china?

I want a unique traditional and cultural experience and I think China remains loyal to both of these things.

How long will you be away for?

Five months

What will you be doing?

I will be teaching English as a foreign language to Engineering students.

Where in China are you going?

Shenyang, Liaoning Province. It’s found on the Northeast of China

What do you hope to achieve?

Great teaching experience, personal growth, the ability to speak a little Chinese.

China and SA are strong trade partners; do you think more young people should do what you are doing? And why?

Anyone should grab an opportunity to travel. It can open door you didn’t know were there.

Why are you going?

To locate my undiscovered doors (she laughs). There are several reasons; I want to know what’s out there, I love adventure, I want to prove to myself I can survive and be independent in a foreign country and the challenge of this made me want it even more.

What would you like the Chinese people to learn about SA?

I would love for them to learn about the beauty of our diversity.

What will you miss the most about SA?

The comfort and familiarity and most definitely the food!

Would you like to learn mandarin? It is probably the language of the future.

I’d love to but that might take a few years.

What did you study?

I did a BA in Drama and Psychology and Honours in Drama: Directing and Education. I’m also a CELTA (Cambridge English Language Teaching to Adults) graduate.

How will you use your drama background as a teaching tool?

There are many fun and creative methods in drama that aid the cognitive process. My aim is to incorporate some of these into teaching English as a second language, in order to make it fun, exciting and engaging. 

What are the 3 things you won't be leaving Durban without?

My GHD, A hug from my boyfriend and my laptop.

Considering you are vegetarian, do you think you will encounter any challenges? How will you deal with it?

Yes, Definitely! I think I’m in for a Fear Factor-like experience. However this is all part of the challenge and I’ll have to take it as it comes. To be honest I’m actually excited to see what’s on offer.

Have you researched how many South Africans are going to China and why?

No I have not. However I do believe there is a handful of South Africans scattered around China doing business or studying medicine.

Why did you choose China? Not Nigeria or India?

China is the world’s most populated country. They produce almost all of our goods and their Chinese symbols are known all around the world. I want to explore the intricate details around how they deal with overpopulation, mass production and learning Chinese symbols. 

Did you research what the nightlife is like in China?

No I haven’t.  However I have been speaking to a few teachers who are already in China. They seem to spend their nights going out to dinner with other teachers or exploring the city.

Are you going to china to find something? Maybe yourself or for the cultural experience?

No. Not anything specific. However I do know that I will be enlightened and I will grow from the experience, whether it’s good or bad.

When you get back what will you do?

The plan is to start a language/drama school when I get back, but that’s not set in stone.

How will you keep in touch whilst you are away?

Facebook, e-mail and skype

Who will you be teaching? What institute?

Engineering students at Shenyang Institute of Technology

Are there any restrictions?

None that I know off.

How did you get in?
I was researching Teaching in China for a few months when I came across a vacancy that offered most of what I was looking for. I sent through all the necessary documents and within a few days I got reply saying that they were interested in hiring me. After several e-mails with the school and some of their teachers, I decided to accept the offer.
 
Is there anything else you would like to add?

I’ll miss you all!

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To view the article click on the link below: 

http://www.thenewage.co.za/mobi/Detail.aspx?NewsID=63423&CatID=1008

Next week I’ll be adding a new page to my blog which documents the five months I spent in China.

I hope you’re excited!

Peace & Love

Verusha :)