Kayshia’s Journey: From Cultural Roots to Teaching Chinese at Peking University
Kayshia Amberly Wijaya, an Indonesian student, recently shared insights into her journey as a Master’s candidate in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages (MTCSOL) at Peking University (PKU). Growing up in a Chinese-speaking household, Kayshia considers Mandarin to be an essential element of her cultural identity.
Heritage and Commitment
Kayshia expressed appreciation for her Chinese-Indonesian heritage, which has fueled her commitment to learning Mandarin authentically and preserving the culture associated with it. She emphasized the significance of the language in her life beyond mere heritage.
Choosing Peking University
In discussing her decision to attend Peking University, Kayshia recognized the institution’s global standing, as well as its distinguished faculty and the unique opportunities it offers within her field. She is particularly interested in early childhood education and gained practical experience at the Peking University Elementary School, where she could apply her theoretical learning.
Challenges Faced
Despite her background in Mandarin, Kayshia encountered challenges in her Master’s program, particularly with academic terminology and research that required advanced language skills. The differences in prior experiences between her classmates and herself made this transition challenging. However, interactions with both local and international peers helped her practice Mandarin and gradually increased her confidence.
Suggestions for Mastering Mandarin
Kayshia offered several suggestions for mastering Mandarin, recommending complete immersion in the language and maintaining a Mandarin-only environment. Her teaching approach sometimes involves using body language and facial expressions to effectively communicate with students who may struggle to understand.
Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration
Reflecting on her experiences, Kayshia recounted her first Mid-Autumn Festival celebration in China, which held deeper significance than similar celebrations in Indonesia. This event served as a reminder of her cultural roots and the connections it fosters.
Favorite Proverbs
Kayshia also shared her favorite Chinese proverbs, focusing on the value of hard work and the importance of the direction of that effort. One proverb that resonates with her is “有教无类,” which translates to “everyone deserves education.” This belief highlights her commitment as an educator to recognize and nurture the potential in every student.
Conclusion
Overall, Kayshia’s experience at Peking University embodies a combination of personal development, cultural reconnection, and a commitment to education, reinforcing her aspirations of teaching Chinese and promoting its cultural importance.
Written by: Jenika Huang
Edited by: Nicole Accalia Angriawan, Wang Zihan, Chen Shizhuo
Photo: Courtesy of interviewee
Source: Peking University News
