Say ‘Ni Hao’ to New Chinese Exchange Teacher Ms. Dong Wen
There are roughly 6,832 miles between Center Valley and Beijing, China. This cross-world trip between the two locations is lengthy and difficult, but new Chinese teacher Ms. Dong Wen made the expedition to teach at Southern Lehigh High School. Ms. Dong is excited to teach Mandarin Chinese to our students and help them better understand her culture.
Ms. Dong came to Southern Lehigh from Beijing Normal University, where she is currently working toward her master’s degree in Mandarin Chinese in hope of cultivating a love for the language in her current and future students. She previously attended Zhe Jiang University where she earned her bachelor’s degree.
“I wanted to go to America because it represents western culture,” Ms. Dong said. China represents a completely different culture [than America’s].”
Ms. Dong is excited to teach about the way of life of the people in China, and is especially thrilled to teach calligraphy to the students. Her expectations for the class include being confident, always being ready to learn, and working hard.
“I think [Chinese] is gonna go pretty well this year as long as we study,” freshman Jessica Beltz said.
This year, the Chinese program has two teachers: Ms. Dong and Mrs. Patricia Gouck. Together, they borrow from each other’s knowledge to create lesson plans that combine their experiences with Chinese culture and Mandarin Chinese.
“It is really great to work with Dong Laoshi. She is really hard working and dedicated to teaching,” Mrs. Gouck said. “It has been nice to get to know her, and working with her has been fun. I know we are going to have a great year.”
On her days off, Ms. Dong likes to cook, ride her bicycle, and sing traditional and pop music. Her favorite American pop singer is Katy Perry.
In China, Ms. Dong has her mother, father, and her younger sister, Shuwen.
“I miss my parents,” Ms. Dong said. “The time difference is very big, 12 hours. It’s hard to find time to talk.”
Despite her homesickness, Ms. Dong is looking forward to an fun-filled year teaching about China and all it has to offer SLHS students.
“I treasure the chance to work in a different culture and have a fulfilling and colorful year,” she said.
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