"Whatever your reason for studying a language, take time to really go beyond that; get in tune with the culture. Have conversations with native speakers. GO TO THE COUNTRY (if you can). Most importantly, have fun learning."
Major(s) and Certificate(s): East Asian Languages & Literature – Chinese (Mandarin)
Language(s): Mandarin Chinese
Graduation Year: 2009
What motivated you to study this/these languages?
I was interested in the meanings of Chinese characters I’d see in films I watched as a child. When I had the chance to learn the language, I leapt at it!
What do you remember about your UW language classes? How were they different from other classes you took?
I remember getting my grades after my first semester. Two of them stood out:
COM ARTS 100 (English) – Intro to Speech Composition – D (3 credits)
E ASIAN 101 – First Semester Chinese – B (6 credits)
“How did you do worse in your own language than Chinese?” My family’s confused laughter eradicated any disappointment they may have wanted to vocalize.
Add to it, I also had to attend discussions Tuesdays & Thursdays, along with Chinese table on Fridays after class. That’s 5 classes & 1 activity weekly.
At the time however, I did not understand the gasps of shock and horror from other students when I shared this. I remember finding the classes interesting and the instructors and TAs being attentive as to ensure students’ success in the courses.
I wasn’t proud of the D in English, but it showed me where my interests were and that I wanted to continue Chinese as my major.
What have you done in a professional capacity since graduating from UW-Madison?
I am a performing artist and Black Arts educator. I have provide dance instruction and lectures in various forms of Street Dance born from the Black community in the USA. I have organized, judged, and MCed events across mainland China and Hong Kong. I am currently a member of the judging committee in the Hong Kong Dance Sport Federation for Breaking (“break dance”) in the Olympics.
I’ve used my language skills to be an ambassador of Black Arts and a cultural tradition bearer in China, Hong Kong, and other Mandarin-speaking communities.
What are ways, either expected or unexpected, that your language study has benefited you in your career?
I did not think that my language abilities would open up so many opportunities and avenues as an artist. I’ve been able to use Black Arts to connect to the global Mandarin-speaking community. My study of the language opened up an avenue for me to better learn Cantonese once I ended up living in Hong Kong!
What advice do you have for students who are studying language(s) about how to incorporate their interests and skills into their future goals?
Whatever your reason for studying a language, take time to really go beyond that; get in tune with the culture. Have conversations with native speakers. GO TO THE COUNTRY (if you can). Most importantly, have fun learning.