After the success of our first Mandarin Course, CUSEF has once again welcomed a new batch of students to join our program. From September 10 to December 3, CUSEF hosted its second virtual Mandarin course for American students to hone their language skills and pick up a few new phrases along the way. Over twenty students representing eight historically black colleges and universities attended the course taught by Beijing Foreign Studies University on a weekly basis. To enhance the exchange experience, four Chinese student ambassadors attended the course and provided additional support to the students by reviewing the materials learned in smaller groups and practicing new communication techniques with them. Madison Rose of Bowie State University said of her CUSEF Virtual Mandarin Course experience:

“My experience was beneficial in my jumpstart to learning Chinese formally. I appreciated being in a group with another student as it allowed me to meet someone new. Overall, I had a great time, and if I could join the program again, I would.”

The course concluded with guidance for students planning to take the Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK), which is the standardized test of Standard Chinese language proficiency of Mainland China for non-native speakers such as foreign students and overseas Chinese. Vivian Carter of Bowie State University said this of her experience:

“Learning Mandarin is a huge challenge but CUSEF has made it very simple and interactive. It was still difficult, but the resources that they provided has allowed me to learn with confidence. The tutors and teacher were patient and taught us well. After completing this course, I have a strong foundation to continue building this skill.”

We wish the students planning to tackle the HSK the best of luck and we hope they continue to delve deeper into the Chinese Language.