Despite being one of the most difficult languages for native English speakers to master, I enjoyed learning Mandarin so much that the constant practice it requires never really felt like work. As a new student from an out of state middle school, I also didn’t know anyone in the first few weeks, but the small, tight-knit Mandarin class helped Justin-Siena really feel like home. 

Throughout my four years, I tried to get involved in as many Chinese culture and language related activities as possible. Chinese Club, language competitions, Lunar New Year performances, middle school visits, and the two week trip to China were some of the most memorable parts of high school for me. After being a member of the newly formed Chinese club when I was a freshman, I began to help plan meetings and take on more of a leadership role, eventually becoming the president of the club as a senior. I think Chinese Club is the best way for Mandarin students of different grade levels to meet each other and interact with international students, while also trying delicious Chinese food. The language competitions were something I was hesitant to enter at first, but after participating for all four years I found that my confidence presenting in the language and public speaking in general had greatly improved. And of course, I will never forget the amazing opportunity I had to visit China with Ms. Li and some of my classmates in the summer of 2016, an incredible bonding and world view expansion opportunity. That was my first real taste of what it would be like to live in China, what the monuments from my history books really look like, and how diverse and flavorful authentic Chinese dishes are. 

Now, as a freshman in my second semester of college at UC Berkeley, I remember all of these experiences very fondly and find myself missing the familiar routine of high school Mandarin class amidst the rigorous, fast paced college classes. I am excited to see where college Chinese courses take me... hopefully back to China! I also realize all of this, my continued interest in and study of Chinese language, would not have been possible, without Ms. Li, my creative, spirited, and determined Mandarin teacher. I was very honored that Ms. Li asked me to visit Justin-Siena recently and share my language experience with Mandarin I and II students. Knowing that I can encourage and inspire other younger students to keep pursuing Mandarin is the best feeling. I hope that my involvement in and contribution to the Justin-Siena Mandarin program will be long-lasting long and continue to motivate more students to become immersed in such a beautifully rich language and culture.