student love

my first semester at a chinese university went really well. i got to know and love most of my 11 classes (300ish students), definitely built rapport with them, they got used to me and my sense of humor, and for the most part we had a great time.

around the end of first semester a couple of teachers decided to switch a few classes , mainly because we decided to try teaching a different course. sadly, someone wanted to teach one of my courses, so i allowed her to swap three (of my favorite classes) with me. i was bummed, but welcomed the thought of new students again in second semester.

as a courtesy to my students, i warned them about the switch and talked a bit about my colleague who would be replacing me. i said my goodbyes, heard theirs, and closed the books on those classes.

between semesters there were a few minor changes made which gave me back one of my three lost classes. i was so excited! i really love this one class because the students are quick, participate well and often, and i find it both fun and challenging.

so this semester when i went to the class, i purposely walked past the windows and waved at the little darlings. then i did a u-turn and popped into the classroom. the crowd went wild! they were all "OH! CHRISTIE!!" and "YOU CAME BACK!" and "IT'S YOU!" i was so happy to be back and especially happy that they were as happy as i was. we had a great second first lesson which was delivered and received  with renewed energy.

it's gonna be a really good semester, methinks. :)