Why did you choose this program?
While researching Mandarin schools in Hangzhou from Germany, I came across XMandarin and was immediately interested in its teaching approach. The combination of small group classes and one-on-one lessons felt ideal, as it allowed for interaction with others while still receiving personalized guidance tailored to my learning needs.
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
Mandarin was very helpful with practical matters, especially answering my questions about the visa application and guiding me through the program options. They made the preparation process much clearer and less stressful. I arranged my apartment in Hangzhou myself, but it was good to know the school also offers housing support if needed.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
I would strongly recommend preparing essential apps before arriving in China. Downloading and setting up WeChat, Alipay, and similar apps in advance, including linking your bank account, saves a lot of time. This preparation makes everyday tasks easier and helps you feel more confident during your first days.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
My week was well structured, with group lessons on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings and private classes on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Since I lived far from campus, I used my commute time to review vocabulary or flashcards. Outside of class, I explored the city, studied, and practiced Mandarin.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
Before coming to China, my biggest fear was the language barrier and the possibility of feeling lost or unable to handle everyday situations independently. After arriving, I realized this concern was much smaller than expected. Digital tools, QR-code systems, and translation apps made communication easier, and over time my confidence and independence grew significantly.