Effective learning in a fun environment

I am six weeks into my first 8-week part time mandarin class and I am amazed by how useful the classes are. The combination of focus on speaking and understanding while also allowing teaching time for writing and reading Chinese characters makes the classes a unique learning experience. The school platform NihaoCafe is excellent -- it reinforces what we learn in class and has great practice exercises. I looked into several other language schools and I am convinced I made the absolute best choice in That's Mandarin! A plus is that the Shanghai school is in a great central location with a super chill rooftop terrace.