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1 Guilin, China Study Abroad Programs

Chinese Language Institute (CLI)
9.4626 reviews

Chinese Language Institute (CLI)

Study Abroad in China – Earn College Credits

In partnership with Guangxi Normal University (GXNU), CLI offers ...

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Down the rabbit hole - opportunities during the Covid-19 Pandemic (summer 2021)

by: Alan Flurry - United StatesProgram: Mandarin Language + Cultural Immersion in Beautiful Yangshuo
9

One of the best rabbit holes I’ve ever explored. I’ll explain. I’ve been living in China approximately two years, and during this time I’ve used tutoring, movies, TV, language apps and ease dropping on conversations to do my best to pick-up a bit of Chinese here and there. Some gains, but nothing great. Then, after two years of trying and looking, I came across an advertisement for Omeida while reading a WeChat article. Click, down the rabbit hole I went. After what seemed like hours of reading and watching everything available about Omeida, I thought, this is too good to be true, but it’s still worth pursuing. I contacted Omeida and my journey and relationship with them and their family of students began. The intake process is simple and efficient. First, they ask you about your background, goals and time commitment. Next, you’re scheduled for an online interview. After the interview, you’re asked to decide what program you will attend, Standard/Survival (15 hours - afternoon) or Intensive/Survival & University Course Work (30 hours - morning and afternoon). Finally, you finalize your arrangements for arrival and payment. Omeida is willing to schedule a car to pick you up, accepts cash and digital payment, are able and willing to provide a Fabio. These are notable points as all businesses do not provide them. In regards to course options, my experience and opinion is that both options are good especially together. Caveat to this for me was it didn't seem like I was able to process what I learned in time to apply it to the next lesson. This could be because my Chinese foundation was insufficient and/or too many other external commitments. Omeida Chinese Academy is exactly what you see in the videos open, student centered and accommodating. In the building, WIFI, lounge area, refrigerator, coffee, tea and mugs, restrooms with Western and Eastern style toilets, fitness room, roof top access with furniture and study rooms plus 24 hours access are provided. WHAT? That’s right, 24 hours access! Can you say commitment to success? Another small yet interestingly relaxing thing at Omeida is that instead of using bells to indicate period start/end times, they play classical music. It’s a different touch and quite nice. It further differentiates Omedia from others. Primary avenues available to greater develop your linguistic skill set can be accomplished by: taking advantage of the very low student to teacher ratio (1:2-3), language exchange (get a partner and elevate yourselves to the next level), weekly (Wednesday) cultural activities, quiz nights (Thursday), weekend excursions (Saturday), monthly dinner, interacting with locals and volunteering at Omeida English College. A word about volunteering – it’s in English. This is mentioned because if you want an all Chinese speaking environment this will not provide it, but it can provide an opportunity to help someone, make a connection and learn about Chinese culture. It can also help to offset some of your cost, such as meals etc., however, it will take at least one hour of your time, Monday-Friday from 17:00-18:00. Although it was enjoyable having conversations with English learners, it was, at times, in conflict with other interests. The accommodation I had was clean, adequate, affordable, secure and close to the academy. You can choose between a single or shared room. I chose to share a room hoping to benefit from having a roommate. A roommate can be a godsend for your sanity and language development. My roommate and I were separated by several generations, but we didn’t have any problem, just not much to converse about – different interest and priorities. The canteen doesn’t serve 5 Star meals, but it does serve meals on time. If going, go early! In the month I spent at Omeida as a false beginner, a solid foundation was created, I made improvements in pronunciation, grammar and speaking and I intend to continue my studies online. Going there wasn’t a choice for me it was chance and necessity. Omeida Chinese Language Academy is a good choice for the curious, adventurer and student. You won’t be disappointed with your choice. The administrative staff and teaching faculty are supportive, caring knowledgeable, experienced and flexible. And when your stay is up, it’s likely that the school, students, locals and enchanting picturesque Yangshuo and your experiences will have you wanting to return.

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