Konall Culture Exchange

Program Reviews

The personalised and 1:1 training at KCE was amazing. I wasn't trying to get a degree in Mandarin, I just wanted to learn a new language and use it to make new friends and have great conversations, and to learn about life from a different point of view! The guys at KCE tailored the program to suit my needs by focusing on Pinyin and grammar rather than Chinese characters. I had a fantastic teacher who also became a friend, and the other students welcomed me into their various social activities which was lovely. I couldn't have had a better experience I don't think!

What would you improve about this program?

I stayed with a family that couldn't speak ANY english - sometimes that level of immersion is unhelpful because it means you end up not being able to communicate at all. Having an opportunity to live with a local person but someone who can speak enough english to correct Chinese...etc would be ideal.

If you're serious about your Chinese, KCE is definitely for you. I came here not only for the language, but also for the change in lifestyle, and boy did I get one.
It's simply the closest you'll ever get to the "real" China. I was at KCE for a little less than a year, and the progress I made from scratch was phenomenal. I can converse freely with local Chinese people, write 1000+ characters and so much more. Before I left, I passed the HSK 5 examination.
But most of all, the staff are some of the kindest and most sincere people, and they're always supportive. For me, I can't think of anything about KCE that I didn't like. It was just plain awesome.
KCE and staff, thank you so much for a year I'll never forget, expect me to come visit soon!

-Erik