Union plays host to 21 Chinese English Teachers

Union College is playing host to 21 Chinese students this semester. They are on our campus to learn how to speak conversational English.

All the students hail from Shenzhen City of the Longgand District of China. They are all English teachers in their country teaching English as a second language. They have learned the language from books and by listening to tapes. Now they want to hone their skills as they learn how the language is spoken in different areas across the United States.

While in our community, they have had the opportunity to experience some of the local culture while they are learning. Part of their learning experience is to visit local landmarks, meet local people and become accustomed to local dialects.

"The best thing about Kentucky are the Maples," said one student when asked about their experience in our community. Another said the people were what impressed her. "The people are friendly, kind-hearted. They help us when we need it," she said.

The biggest obstacle with the students has been transportation. The local churches and many volunteers have been crucial to helping them with this issue. The students are responsible for paying for their own transportation while they travel throughout the United States and they are extremely grateful for those who volunteer their time and vehicles to help them.

From here, the students will be traveling to Western Kentucky and then north to visit other regions of our country.

If you would like to meet with the students to learn about their country and help them learn about our language, call Stephan LeJohn at Union College, 546-1693.

October 29, 2003

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