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Touted as the next big thing in the world economy, China promises to play a major role in the years ahead as a major market for US goods and a huge consumer population clamoring for the western lifestyle. To promote better trade relations, the US government has encouraged the study of Chinese language and culture in schools. Next to Spanish, it is the hot new language to learn.

In Chicago, five new public high schools have started offering Chinese language lessons. According to the Asia Society, the program has grown to 3,000 students in 20 schools and more are on the waiting list.  Clearly, the trend in the interest for all things Chinese is an effect of Globalization. It has affected the way how children today are being groomed about their future careers.

However, if you are serious about learning the language and culture of China, the best way to learn and retain your knowledge is to actually study in China. Most westerners are hesitant to go to China as it would probably subject them to a severe case of culture shock.  Part of China’s mystique is that despite the presence of Google and Youtube, it has remained inaccessible to the vast majority of westerners. The linguistic barrier is the main reason for this; Chinese isn’t exactly an easy language to learn. But for people who are determined, coupled with a healthy dose of curiosity and adventure, it can be a fascinating and rewarding experience.  Learning Chinese will greatly increase your choice of travel destinations. Taiwan, Macau, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore are some of the places where Chinese is spoken. Fluency in the language may also open up a new world of career opportunities. Doing business with the Chinese is very personal and complex. Even if some Chinese speak English, Chinese is still strictly the language in which they do business. They are very clannish and tend to stick among themselves. If you are an outsider, you don’t get to experience some of the perks of the job or close a deal simply because you don’t speak Chinese. It can mean life or death in some business situations.

Two terms (eight months) of systematic language study at a Chinese university is adequate enough to give you a working knowledge to start discovering China and its people. In learning any foreign language, it helps that you also practice speaking it all the time. At is why it helps if you learn Chinese while living in China so you get to immerse in their culture, people, and lifestyle. You will get to appreciate the nuances of the language more than if you just learn it from a headphone in a classroom of fifty students in Ohio.

Studying in China is a good way to spend a gap year. In addition to picking up a new language, you will also be learning about China’s fascinating 6,000 year-old civilization. Armed with your newly-acquired language ability to travel and experiencing the real China; conversing directly with the locals instead of just constantly bobbing your head and wondering if they are laughing at you behind your back for looking stupid.

Studying in China is also great value for money, in an entire year; you’re unlikely to spend more than 5,000 pounds (inclusive of your air ticket, insurance, tuition, accommodation and other living expenses).

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