Staff Interview with Sarah Ma

What inspired you to work for Edu-Pal China?

The change of perspective it can cause in each participant and host family. Participants gain knowledge about the city, the country, the culture and the language. They develop a global-citizen vision through experiential learning. A lot of students make clear plans and goals while abroad influencing their choice major and/or school. Our graduates are better prepared before going into a serious career.

Describe a typical day at work.

My morning routine consists in collecting feedback from participants (Edu-Pals) and families from their program facilitator; confirming classes and event planning for the week and month. During the afternoon I do interviews with Edu-Pal and family candidates and set up interviews between them.

During days in which Edu-Pal participants come to office, I try to meet the group and talk to individuals that may need extra support or help. 

Why do you do what you do?

After spending 5 year working as a language teacher I understand the trigger that motivates adult and young students to learn a new language and how to make the learning experience practical and interesting for them, as well as their learning experience of the culture.

As a world traveller, I understand how travel and life abroad can shape you. There are challenges for both our participants (Edu-Pals) and our host families. The challenges are also the charming part of experiencing another culture. It's all about having a positive mind-set.

As a host mom myself, I can relate to most situations Edu-Pals and host families bring up to me. We incorporate a empathy skills workshop in both Edu-Pals and host families' training sessions to try to make the experience of living abroad as smoothly as possible.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is to create connections among people. Our connections with Edu-Pals from all over the world and mind-like host families is very rewarding. The connections the Edu-Pals themselves and their host family create, such as life long friendship with their host siblings is something we are very proud of. It’s a life-time memory for most participants!!

How do you use your education and international background in your current role?

As explained earlier, I integrate various skills into my role. My education background, my teaching experience, my travel experiences, and my role as a host mom all help me to better my work at Edu-Pal China. 

What challenges do you often face and how do you overcome them?

Miscommunication sometimes happens between host families and our participants. We try to explain the culture implication behind it which is most of the time a positive intention. If necessary, we set up a meeting for them to try to help in their communication. Trying to make both sides understand each other's perspective. 

What are some current projects you are working on at Edu-Pal?

I’ve been working at Edu-Pal China Exchange (Language and Cultural Exchange), Edu-Pal Home Teaching Internship (For ESL, education or social work majors), and Edu-Pal Pro Teaching (For teachers with experience).

What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?

Keep an open mind and embrace China. Read our Pre-departure Brochure and get yourself well prepared. Set up a local communication App WeChat (suggest your family to do so as well). Learn some basic Chinese to greet people. And set up another chat with your facilitator or host family if necessary.

What makes Edu-Pal special?

The programs we offer are very special and unique! The Chinese business classes we organise are designed based on curriculum by CIBL at London School of Economics. Our cultural events are award-winning programs and have very good feedback. And finally, the culture in our organization. It's active, warm, and supportive. 

Why should someone choose your organization over competitors?

Above 96% of our participants are very satisfied with our programs. We collect feedback from each participant so we can constantly keep improving our program’s quality. 

How do you help support participants?

We offer online training and orientation training. On site participants meet at least twice a week with a Edu-Pal’s facilitator. We also offer support on a regular basis or upon request. 

Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?

To get out of their comfort zone. It’s necessary to travel to a new place where you can experience new people, new norms, and a totally new culture. Travelling abroad is one of the best ways to increase your diversity consciousness. 

Why do you think learning a new language is important?

Learning a new language will not only contribute to your career skills, but also contribute to your awareness of other cultures and ways of thinking. 

What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?

Be adaptable and flexible. Be well prepared and know about the destination country. Be open to new friends and different people. Try not to be in your comfort zone. Avoid spending time only with people that speak the same language as you and that comes from the same background.

What does meaningful travel mean to you?

To learn, grow, and transform your life by surrendering yourself with a new culture. It’s to become a better global citizen, and learn to make a difference in the world.