A month in China learning Mandarin
A month in China learning Mandarin. I had slowly been learning Mandarin for a few years in the UK but was looking for an opportunity for more concentrated classroom learning in a more immersive environment. GoEast had been recommended to me and I was soon in contact with a Language Consultant and was warmly welcomed by video call. I explained that I wanted to take the GoEast HSK4 equivalent course with 1:1 lessons for 4 hours a day, 4 days a week for 4 weeks. This is so I had more time at weekends to go travelling too. Despite my very specific requirements GoEast would be able to fully accommodate this by assigning me two teachers on alternating days which was great. A learning schedule proposal was sent to me and I chose to take a trial lesson. I really enjoyed the trial lesson and found it was pitched right at my level so signed up for the rest of the classes. Before I arrived there was guidance offered with arranging visa and accommodation. I already had these sorted and had been to China before so didn't need too much help but knew it was there with a quick response. I also took a few online classes in the UK to familiarise with the GoEast course. This worked really well, there was good flexibility in arranging the time and it was with one of the teachers who was going to teach me in Shanghai. When I arrived (Xuhui Campus) I had a friendly welcome. I like open plan but cosy office/waiting area at the campus as it has a more inclusive feel and gives an opportunity to chat. Lunchtime was between my classes so I was also always welcome to come and eat my lunch with the staff too which was nice. I was even treated to a milk tea when there was a group order put in :) The classes themselves were excellent and everything I was hoping for. Both my teachers were qualified and professional and always made it fun. The GoEast HSK4 equivalent course I was following took a more practical approach than the more formal textbook style id been learning before. This helped me to make great progress with my speaking and listening and really expand vocabulary. The online resources were also very useful to help me review and prepare and I liked that this was included in my learning package. A couple of times I had to adjust my schedule around travel plans and this was accommodated well. Overall I liked the slightly smaller more personal feel to GoEast. This is what stood out to me when originally researching and comparing against larger companies with multi city schools and my experience definitely met this expectation. Everyone was super friendly, flexible to my schedule, I was made to feel like I belonged there and I would really like to go back. Highly Recommend!