For anyone interested in exploring and understanding China’s rich history and culture, it’s ever-increasing influence in the world, and what life is like for the 1.4 billion people who live here, learning Chinese is the first 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

Mandarin Language Video

During the Program

Our 4 and 6-week program options divide their time between Kunming (capital city of Yunnan Province) 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 3–4 hours of formal Mandarin instruction per day, with the option for 1:1 tutoring sessions in the afternoon for hungry learners. Homestay placements reinforce language acquisition, encouraging students to practice new vocabulary with their families in the evenings.

While in Kunming, students engage in ISPs, learning directly from local mentors about topics ranging from Chinese cooking, calligraphy, traditional Chinese medicine, martial arts, musical instruments and environmental issues. Students also explore local historic and cultural sites such as The Golden Temple, the Bird and Flower Market, and Green Lake Park. During rural homestays, sample activities include organizing pick-up soccer or basketball games with village teenagers, foraging for medicinal plants with expert guides, visiting Buddhist monasteries, and learning about the work of local NGOs.

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