American Eagle School, Lujiazui Campus

Working as an ESL head teacher for Eagle Academy in China has been a whirlwind journey filled with challenges, growth, and countless memorable moments. My experience primarily revolves around working with kindergartners and training center students, and let me tell you, every day has been an adventure. The kindergarten years were some of the most formative in my teaching career. Picture a classroom buzzing with energy, laughter, and curiosity. These little learners, with their wide eyes and endless enthusiasm, taught me as much as I taught them. From teaching them basic vocabulary to guiding them through their first English conversations, every milestone felt like a victory for both me and my students. One of the most rewarding aspects of working in the kindergarten was witnessing the transformation of shy, hesitant children into confident English speakers. It was incredible to see their progress, from nervously whispering "hello" to proudly performing in front of their parents during school events. Each small achievement was a testament to their hard work and dedication, and it filled my heart with pride to know I played a part in their language development. Transitioning to the training centers brought about a different set of challenges and rewards. Here, I worked with older students, ranging from elementary to high school age, who were eager to improve their English skills for various reasons, whether it be academic success, future career prospects, or simply a love for the language. My role was not only to teach them English but also to inspire and motivate them to embrace learning as a lifelong journey. In the training centers, I had the opportunity to delve deeper into English grammar, literature, and critical thinking skills. Watching my students grapple with complex concepts and come out the other side with a newfound understanding was incredibly fulfilling. Whether we were dissecting Shakespearean sonnets or debating current events, every class was a chance to spark curiosity and ignite passion for learning. Of course, no teaching experience is without its challenges. Balancing the diverse needs and abilities of my students, navigating cultural differences, and adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of education presented constant hurdles. Yet, it was these challenges that pushed me to innovate, collaborate with colleagues, and continuously improve my teaching practices. Above all, my time as an ESL head teacher in China has been a humbling reminder of the power of education to transcend borders and transform lives. Every interaction, every lesson taught and learned, has left an indelible mark on me, shaping not only my professional skills but also my perspective on the world. And for that, I am endlessly grateful. So, I would like to say you should give it a try and come to China to explore and new world with endless possibilities in education and help to transform some local lives as they will do for you also. I'm now in my 7th year living and working in China. I can happily say this is where I fit in and belong. I'm excited for my future and more amazing years ahead of me!