How do I get to China?

In My Humble Opinion
1

Presumably on a plane. But apart from that, I’m not sure.

I want to move to China. I’d like to live there for a couple of years, maybe. Learn the language (or at least become familiar with it). I’ve wanted to do this for several years, it’s not a passing whim.

I’m in the process of applying to the Peace Corps. My recruitment officer leads me to believe that barring a medical problem, I’ll be nominated for a position, but that there’s only a slight chance I’ll get China (I qualify for the programs there, but there are relatively few of them, compared with hundreds in surrounding countries). I will definately consider other positions offered, but I’d like to investigate going to China through some other orginization if I can’t do it through Peace Corps.

Here’s the problem: I have no skills… I’ll be a college graduate shortly, but my degree is in Philosophy and Spanish. Not exactly applicable. I have some work experience teaching TEFL and tutoring, but nothing concrete, no certifications.

I’d be open to any kind of situation that would allow me to live in a self-sustaining manner, and give me opportunity to learn language and culture, not just work.

Any insight, suggestions? Much obliged.

2

Are you a religious person?

Many churches support missions to foreign countries. I feel certain that if you contacted your church’s mission-organizing people and told them you were interested in participating in a mission to China, they’d be willing to listen.

It’s worth a try, anyway.

3

Maybe you can start here. I just entered key words “work in China” in Google search engine. Viva Google! :slight_smile:

4

What is this “google” you speak of?

Seriously though, I knew someone would mention that, but I was hoping to get like… personal insight, advice from someone who has lived there, maybe an invitation from the ambassador to be his food taster or something. Still, point taken.

5

Teaching English in China is the way to go for you. You might be able to get on with a company as their English resource. Teach them english, proof faxes and email, help with exports or imports. Could be difficult if you don’t speak Chinese though, but these low paying jobs are out there.

The major cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou are relatively expensive, although if you live primarily on the local economy it is a lot cheaper. The cities you’ve never heard of may still have a population of 5 million, but are usually a lot cheaper than the big three. Could be a lot nicer.

If you get on with a Chinese University, you’ll probably have the “best” experience. You’re Chinese will probably positively benefit from the experience. Judging from your age, you’d probably like to hang with Chinese college age students. That is, you’ll probably get University housing and treated like family. Read Mark Salzman’s Iron and Silk for any idea of what to expect. Remember, Mark Salzman’s book was written over 10 years ago and China has gotten a lot more liberal, modern and the economy has doubled since then. You won’t make much money. You’ll also find that your private life might be scrutinized closely.

There are also private english schools everywhere. You can check out this website which covers shanghai http://www.thatsshanghai.com

If you are serious about learning Chinese, it would be helpful if you live where they speak good Mandarin as a first language. That is, in Northern China, the greater Beijing area and the three northern provinces. Everywhere else in China will speak a dialect as a first language. In the big cities, most people under say 40 or 50 will probably speak adequate Mandarin. In the countryside or small cities you might have a rough time. It would be akin to you going to Zurich and speaking their version of German.

My number one suggestion for an area to go teach English at would be Kunming, Yunnan Province. Near the Burmese border. They speak a passible version of Mandarin, have a pretty unique history, relatively close to a lot of cool places for vacations (lot’s of minority areas, near Tibet, etc.) with good food, nice weather, and reportedly the nicests golf course in China.

Anyhoo, if you can get some choices, you can post here and people would give you feedback on relative merits.

6

China Guy, I was hoping you’d show up! Thanks very much, that’s a lot of info to consider.

KneadToKnow, that’s a good idea, and something I’ve considered in the past. But I’m not specifically religious enough to make that kind of commitment.

7

I have a large, sturdy shovel here that I will loan you. hOhOhO! I slay me!

Seriously, have you tried contacting a Chinese embassy or consulate? I have seen ads in my college’s newspaper from some Canadian government organization specifically for Americans who want to live and work in Canada. China might very well have some similar program.

8

Probably not for you, then. They don’t call it “being called” for nothing: if you don’t feel it as a burning need, it’s probably not your thing. :slight_smile:

Best wishes.