Celebrating Spring Festival in Taiwan at FDA III High School

Hi! I’m Yaling, from Taiwan, the small island which is always confused with China or Thailand. Therefore, that’s the reason why I’d like to join Global Classroom. For me, it’s a really great opportunity to step into the ‘real’ classrooms and let more people know about my country. Besides, I was a special education teacher in Taiwan and I’m here to learn how to engage the theatre techniques to enrich my teaching and the department of educational theatre at N.Y.U.; therefore, meeting students and teachers from different countries and aspects is also a very refreshing experience for me. I was so overwhelmed the first time I received mail from the Metro to ask whether I would be a globe guide for Taiwan. I mean, knowing is one thing, but doing is another thing. I knew it’s a rare chance; nevertheless, it’s really challenging for me to overcome my phobia to step forward into teaching the American students in all English. I guess you’ll definitely know what kinds of phobia I’m talking about here as international students.

Anyhow, I just decided to say ‘yes’, and I knew that it’s a commitment with no room for a coward to run back. From preparation of slides and lesson plans, it’s so interesting to discover something that we always take for granted in our culture or country is actually so unique. It’s opened another eye on my culture and everything in my country which’s so stunning for me through the process of preparation. Going to school is another thrilling moment for me as well. When I get off the subway at 170 Street, walked around the Bronx neighborhood, and passed through the school security check, I felt like I’m actually in the scene of the movie. Soon, I was introduced into the room, then the class started, one by one, back to back, I just found out that I didn’t even get time to think about my phobia or anxiety at all until then.

The teacher kept apologizing for the misbehavior of some students; she explained that it’s the nature of the classes. However, it didn’t bother me at all, I know it happens all the time, especially in some sort of high schools or middle schools. Some students just don’t even want to learn, no matter how good the teacher or instructor is. However, I was so touched because most of students fully participated for the workshop. They had so many questions about Taiwan and China, or even many opinions and feedback on our traditional custom for Spring Festival. Some even asked about how they can buy those traditional treats in New York City. Treats are always the fun part for them to learn how to say a Mandarin greeting, and so is the paper-cutting. I can’t ever forget that one boy from the morning class tried to get us attention during the lunch break. He just wanted to show us his marvelous paper-cutting job. It’s really something for me, and that’s why I want to continue this project.

It’s just a small seed; maybe it’s too small to be visible now. But don’t forget, the greatest tree comes from a small seed! That’s what I feel as a globe classroom guide now.

Yaling Chao
Taiwanese Global Guide