Tallmadge Middle School was visited last month by Shannon Anicas, an American who, thanks to a scholarship, was able to live in China for a year. For more on the speaker visit https://www.facebook.com/shannon.anicas?ref=tn_tnmn.
Here is her interview.
Do Chinese people use chopsticks for every meal?
Yes, they use them to cook with, too. By the time I left China, I was able to even eat ice cream with them.
Why is studying in China your passion?
I have always been fascinated with Asian culture because of my Grandfather. In 2008, because of the Olympics being in Beijing, there were many shows on television about China and I wanted to know more. When I returned to school that fall to get my degree, I chose to take as many classes as I could on China and Chinese culture.
How crowded is China?
It was extremely crowded, even more so during holidays like Chinese New Year and National Holiday. I always felt safe, though, and it wasn’t as nerve-racking as being in a large crowd in the US. But it was very hot.
How did you translate?
It was very hard at first, but as I learned more Chinese and got accustomed to the sounds I was hearing, it became easier. It felt like everyone was talking really fast and I had to ask them to slow down sometimes.
Did you like the food?
Yes, I loved it. My favorite food was Jidan Lao Mian, which is noodle soup topped with scrambled eggs and tomatoes. And food there was cheap or inexpensive, as long as it wasn’t American.
Anything to add?
Chinese people love to play sports and are very active. They are often playing ping pong or badminton.
