Why did you decide to teach abroad with ImmerQi in China?
Clive: I studied for my TEFL qualifications in New Zealand through an organisation called i-to-i and it was while we were discussing future teaching career options that a period as an Intern for five months in China was suggested. This was a perfect idea for me as I thought I might need some experienced support, at least in the initial stages. ImmerQi advertised through i-to-i and, upon researching the idea and the company, they were reassuring and very professional in their organisation and were always available with more information when needed.
I chose China because it is so different both culturally and scenically from anywhere else in the world and, because of that, it was the ideal destination for work and travel and, even more importantly, something new for a man looking for change and enlightenment, both of which I got in huge amounts!
What made this teaching experience unique and special?
Clive: My college, in Zhongshan (Guangdong Province) is a modern and well-equipped school with a very good teaching philosophy and a serious interest in their students and teachers alike. Every day is special for me as I never know what might happen next! I teach Oral English in fourteen different classes per week, lasting 45 minutes each. My classes have 35-45 students between the ages of 18 - 21.
It is undoubtedly the students who have made my experiences here so special and unique. They are a mix of proficiency levels so ensuring that my lesson plans include all students is a challenge which I enjoy taking every day. The students are always friendly and great fun. We never have a boring lesson as something amusing always happens. My social life within and outside the college, when time permits is also very interesting and fun, whether it's taking tea with the students in the onsite cafe or meeting friends in the city centre for shopping or movies or even KTV! I must of course remember, that I have classes the next day, so not too many late nights in the week!
How has this experience impacted your future?
Clive: When I decided to qualify to teach English as a foreign language, I had worked in the medical research profession (with some science teaching) for 35 years. I desperately needed a change and I wanted to make even more of a difference. Helping Chinese, young and older learn English has certainly helped fulfill my new ambitions. I have a new lease of life and I couldn't have chosen a better profession. Everyday, the students make me smile and content. I can't ask for more than that! I have about 15 years before I retire and I intend to continue teaching either in China if possible or in another Asian country. I also enjoy travelling and photographing the country during official holidays and between semesters.
I intend teaching in colleges or universities in the future as I feel that I am helping the students a little in their new upcoming careers and preparing them for the massive changes that will soon happen to them, just like for me. China is recognizing the need to use English in the modern, multinational world and I want to continue to help them achieve this.
What is one piece of advice you would offer someone considering teaching abroad in China?
Clive: Whether you want to fulfil a dream, change your life, on a student gap year or just want to give it a try, I would say come to China with the right qualifications and use a reputable company either as an Intern or individually and put aside all your preconceptions about China and just enjoy the amazing experience that is unique to anywhere else. I have never known such a heartwarming fulfilling experience as this. If you smile, the Chinese will smile with you! Guaranteed!