For anyone interested in exploring and understanding China’s rich history and culture, its ever-increasing influence in the world, and what life is like for the 1.4 billion people who live there, learning Mandarin is a crucial step. Our approach to language study is holistic: including group travel, homestays, and Independent Study Projects (ISPs) in addition to formal classroom instruction.

Program Highlights & Outcomes

• Learn and improve Mandarin language skills through classes, interactions with homestay families, and meetings with local mentors
• Experience life in two very different communities, one urban, one rural
• Build skills for future studies, work, and travel in the region
• Develop an understanding of modern  life in China, including topics related to business, politics, history, gender, and the environment
• Explore China’s ethnic and ecological diversity in Yunnan Province

Our 4 and 6 week program options divide their time between the city of Kunming and one of several small villages in rural Yunnan. This is a region renowned for its mountainous terrain, natural beauty and ethnic diversity—including Naxi, Tibetan, Yi, Dai, and Miao (Hmong) people. During both urban and rural homestays, students meet for small-group Mandarin instruction with professional language teachers each day. Carefully selected homestay placements reinforce language acquisition, encouraging students to practice new vocabulary with their families in the evenings while also having the unique experience of understanding daily life in China from within a welcoming family. 

While in Kunming, students engage in ISPs, learning directly from local mentors about topics ranging from Chinese cooking, calligraphy, traditional medicine, martial arts, musical instruments, environmental issues, and more. Students also explore local historic and cultural sites such as The Golden Temple, the Bird and Flower Market, and Green Lake Park during their urban time. Transitioning to more rural homestays, students live with families whose livelihoods center around agriculture and community-centered village life. Sample activities include organizing pick-up soccer or basketball games with village teenagers, visiting Buddhist monasteries, and learning about the work of local NGOs within the communities.

Mandarin Intensive students return home with a firsthand understanding of China’s diversity and an increased confidence in their ability to communicate and navigate a rapidly changing China in the world.