Teaching in China takes you on long both real and emotional journey and the first week of China is commonly known as the most difficult part of the whole experience. Here are 9 things other teachers identified as being very real during their first week and why you will feel it.
Anxiety
Before landing in China you’re gonna be anxious to get started. You’re gonna feel eager to get stuck in and curious about all the new sights, sounds and smells that await you.
Tiredness
When you first arrive your body clock is going to be running behind and Jet-lag will undoubtedly increase your exhaustion from the already busy schedule that awaits you during your first weeks settling in period in China
Loneliness
The first time you crash in bed in your own apartment you will suddenly realise just how alone you are and how far from home you’ve come. There will be times when this makes you feel lonely, however, this pain is easily forgotten when you are busy, which during your first week will be a lot of the time.
Confusion
The foreign culture, language and way the Chinese get things done will undoubtedly get you puzzled and will take time to get used to.
Frustration
Not understanding basic questions in Chinese. Being puzzled and challenged by basic choirs like eating with chopsticks and buying vegetables in the supermarket will lead to frustration. Back home, these things were easy. but you are not home, far from it.
Pain
After the frustration you’re gonna feel pain. In times of reflection such as when you lie awake at night or first get up and have time to feel lonely and frustrated you’re gonna feel the pain that comes with it. These are the toughest parts of such an adventure and times to look back on when you have overcome them.
Excitement
A new life, fresh start and adventure will fill you with excitement, everyday challenges like ordering food and teaching your first class will be hugely rewarding and were only made to feel so good because they were challenging. Enjoy the ride.
Adrenaline
The overwhelming sensation of walking down a Chinese street or standing in front of a class full of wide eyed Chinese children will get your blood pumping. Enjoy the rush and use it to feel good.
Success
After all these challenges and all these emotions the week will have ended and you will feel unbeatable. The feeling of success was only made real by feeling the difficulties and challenges along the way. Enjoy every ounce of your success, because if you had the guts to come to China and rise above these challenges then you’ve earned it.
Interested in Teaching English in China? Apply now.
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