Guan Lao Shi, our Chinese teacher, answering a student’s question about the study guide for their chapter test. Photo by: Daisy Lewis

By Daisy Lewis 

When traveling to a different country, there could be noticeable differences in climate, culture, heritage and one’s daily lifestyle.

For Guan Lao Shi, Plymouth High School’s Chinese teacher, going to a different country was not for vacation, but rather for creating a special experience for junior high and high school students. She was offered a spot as a Foreign Language teacher to come and enlighten students about the Chinese language, heritage, and culture. She said, “As far as teaching goes for American students I’ve adjusted my teaching method and am more creative with the assignments I give.” As far as learning a language goes, it will not happen overnight. Guan Lao Shi feels that first year students have a harder time understanding the language and that motivation is very important in students; if they really want to learn then it makes it easier.

The climate depends on where you are in the world. If you are in the Sahara Desert, you do not have a good chance of getting caught in a snowstorm. Similarly if you are in Antarctica you will not catch yourself going for a refreshing dip in the pool. In Guan Lao Shi’s case, our fluctuating weather was a dramatic change for her. She said, “I’m from the south part of China so it’s a very warm climate. So coming to the north part of the country it’s very cold.” For her young son Ray, this year is his first experience in America. She said, “He really liked the snow. He had never seen it before. He loved to go sledding and playing in the snow.”

Food is something that can be taken for granted everyday. The access to simple foods can be overlooked easily and is not necessarily looked at as a luxury. Referring to the differences between American groceries and Chinese markets, Guan Lao Shi said, “In China there’s not a lot of cheese, not too much cereal.” America has a variety of fast food places to choose from. There’s McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, Arby’s, and the list goes on. Guan Lao Shi said, “When my dad was here we would make more traditional Chinese food, but sometimes I will make noodles, hamburgers, and sandwiches. I won’t cook Chinese food everyday, but a few days a week possibly.”

Guan Lao Shi, directing the class from the front of the room, explains a question that confused a student. Photo by: Daisy Lewis

Though teaching is the reason that she came to America, Guan Lao Shi’s life has not completely revolved around school. She has learned a lot about America, but at the same time America has taught her a considerable amount. She said, “I’ve experienced a different life compared to when living in China. I’m learning a different culture and learning more and more as I’m here.” America has also changed her thoughts and feelings. Guan Lao Shi said, “I’ve widened my thoughts and became more creative to get a better chance at communicating with people.”

Traveling to a different country can mean having to leave many things behind, family included. In Guan Lao Shi’s case she was fortunate enough to have brought her son and dad with her this year. She said, “My dad came for help for 3 months then went back home to China for Chinese New Year and came back last week and is staying until June.” Along with her family, she left behind the look and feel of her home town. She has been to Chinatown in Chicago, “Many times. It’s similar, but the food is mixed up with an American style. It’s fairly close to home.” She feels that the first year being here was harder for her because she was alone. This year she has a sort of system set up. She said home-sickness was common for her, but this year she has Ray with her, she Skypes with her parents everyday and she will call some friends once a week or so.

A different country can be difficult to adjust to, but for Guan Lao Shi, it has been a great adventure.