Patrick’s experience report from Suzhou
Between high-tech, nature and minor teaching mishaps
Patrick
Visiting lecturer at the Chien-shiung Institute of Technology in Taicang
in the Department of Mechatronics
Everything starts in China – The Departure
I must admit: I was a little sceptical before the trip. For me, it was a double leap into the deep end, as it was both my first time in China and my very first time as a teacher. Why did I decide to go anyway? Quite simply: I’d always wanted to see this fascinating country with my own eyes. With this desire in my heart and a healthy dose of anticipation, I set off. My expectations were actually quite simple: I wanted to teach a motivated class, get to know a different culture and, above all, meet some lovely people.
Travelling through the Middle Kingdom
One of the main focal points of my stay was the Chien-shiung Institute of Technology in Taicang. From there, I explored the surrounding area and saw an incredible amount.
Of course, Shanghai was on the itinerary – whilst there are lovely parks there too, in my experience the metropolis is best suited to eating out and shopping during the day. The city is also well worth seeing at night. When the skyline is lit up and the city appears in a different light, the whole atmosphere feels quite different to that of the day, and it’s great fun to stroll through the streets in the evening.
I was also absolutely captivated by the more traditional city of Suzhou. One of the real highlights for me was the region’s many beautiful green spaces: I spent loads of time in the parks. I was particularly taken with Tianjinghu Park, Nanyuan and Yanshan Park, which provided the perfect escape from everyday life.
Between high-tech, nature and minor teaching mishaps
Living and working here is a fascinating experience all of its own. On the one hand, the transport links are excellent – whether by taxi, bus or train, you can get anywhere really quickly and easily. On the other hand, you soon notice the contrasts, because as soon as you leave the urban areas, the landscape immediately becomes very rural.
The food was simply brilliant and a new culinary adventure every day. Of course, you have to adjust a little, as the local cuisine is quite different from what you’d find at an Asian restaurant in Germany. People share a lot, there’s a huge variety of ingredients, and you automatically try something new every day. For me, that was an integral and exciting part of the culture.
Of course, things didn’t always run like clockwork at work either: minor hiccups whilst teaching – such as a sudden power cut – are simply part and parcel of life there, and you quickly learn to improvise.
The most important lesson for everyday life, however, was this: without a mobile phone and the right apps, you’re completely lost. In China, absolutely everything runs digitally, from communication and payments to navigation.
My conclusion: What I’ve learnt
I had a really good time whilst I was there. Teaching the project management module was an absolute joy – especially because the students and my colleagues made it so easy for me. I found people in China to be extremely friendly and helpful, no matter the situation.
My advice to you
To anyone who’s still deciding or is currently getting ready: I know you might feel a bit sceptical beforehand – I felt exactly the same way. But don’t let that hold you back! Looking back, I’d do this trip again in a heartbeat. Prepare well (especially when it comes to your smartphone apps!) and just throw yourself into this amazing adventure. It’s well worth it!
