A Tale of “English Corner”

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One of China’s strongest qualities is the determination for self-improvement by its people; a great example is the regularity in which you meet people with the desire to learn a foreign language. While many view a second language as a path to increasing employment opportunities — it can often be the determination and discipline that are the reasons for success.

Last year I lived nearby Shanghai Jiaotong University and would often use the campus athletics track to keep fit. On one particular occasion whilst running a Chinese student started jogging beside me, he wanted to practice his english and “make a foreign friend” and of course I was more than happy to oblige. As we chatted he invited me to an “English corner” that he had started on Campus.

I attended “English Corner” the following Saturday afternoon. It was one of the most impressive things I have seen in China. There, each week, a group of students not only from Jiaotong and other local Universities but high schools as well, all meet up to practice their English. Despite that this was the first week foreigners had attended (I managed to convince a couple of friends to come with me) these students spend their weekends chatting, talking and arguing with one another in their second language — cumulative knowledge helping correct mistakes.

This is something I have not encountered in Britain, it is difficult to imagine sixteen year-olds arguing with medicine post-graduates over their interpretation of a foreign film and the ethics of people. Unfortunately, due to the high number of international students, western student life seems all too prevalent in Shanghai — the majority of foreigners I informed about “English Corner” and opportunity to practice Mandarin were too preoccupied nursing hangovers to attend!

The Chinese students’ drive and productive use of spare time was inspiring and I hope to be able to channel the same energy into my Mandarin learning. It’s underpinned by an impressive work ethic instilled in youth, one that has become a national commodity. China’s manufacturing economy is no longer based solely on price, instead it is the effort and hardworking culture that firms truly value.

There is clear payout and reward for this dedication. Over the last year the popularity of the “English Corner”has grown, from a few students meeting on campus, to a weekly event held at a local pub including pre-arranged guest speakers and caters for over sixty people. While the event co-ordinator has managed to improve his English along with the other attendees over this period of time, his real success has been building an event and providing a service for many people. Now, people attend from all over Shanghai, not just Jiaotong University and the founder informs me that they will soon be the first English salon in the city to release a dedicated mobile app.

For the founder of “Face English Club” improving his second language will without-doubt enhance his employability, however the drive and determination to do so and consequent development of a vehicle to help others, is what really demonstrates value to companies — something that can be practically applied to any business.