I received an email this week from someone who will be moving to China to teach next year. She asked me if I had any advice for her. I thought my response would make a good post:
At this point, so much information is filling my head that I don't even know where to go from here. So, what I'll do is just enumerate things as they pop into my thoughts.
1. Your classroom will likely be equipped with a computer and a projector. Don't count on technology, though. For example, even though I work at one of the top nine universities in the country and one that is known for its technology, the classroom computers here DON'T have internet connections. Some often have problems opening up flv video files and pdf documents. Go figure.
2. Computer viruses are RAMPANT across China, especially at universities. If you have a PC, make sure that you have solid anti-virusware. If you have a Mac, you'll have less risk but also less availability of technicians if something goes awry. I have a Mac laptop and haven't regretted the purchase.
3. Bring lots of photos and maps of your town and state with you. Great conversation pieces.
4. Bring good deodorant. If your city is comparable to Harbin, you'll only have a few roll-on brands from which to choose.
5. Bring perfume. China is a smelly country. We do what we can.
6. If you are unsure if something is available in China, check taobao.com. It's the Chinese version of ebay, basically. Though the site is in Chinese, you can type in brands/names in English and usually get some form of feedback.
7. Certain electronic devices are actually MORE expensive here than in the States, especially Apple products and digital cameras. So if you're on the cusp of purchasing or upgrading, do it before you come.
8. Prescription meds are easy to obtain, many being over-the-counter here. However, you might want to bring some standard meds with you that might come in handy if you feel under the weather as soon as you arrive. They'll buy you some time until you get familiar with the whereabouts of the nearest pharmacy. Personally, I usually bring at least one supply each of the following: steroidal cream (for skin allergies that may arise as your body adjusts to the water difference), cough suppressant, general antibiotic, nausea tabs. Also, you may go through a period of stomach turmoil. Bring Pepto tabs or anything else that you feel is suitable. Over the years, several friends have recommended purchasing charcoal tablets, available at most health food stores at home. They're cheap, natural and are usually helpful with mild bouts of diarrhea.
9. I'm not sure what resources you have for calling home, but we're big fans of Skype over here. Google voice is also used by several of our colleagues. Another suggestion is to invest in Magic Jack, which is sold in the U.S. It allows free calls via the internet by assigning a local (US) number to you. Very handy with often clearer audio than Skype.
10. Chinese photo frames are tacky. Bring your own, if you have room.
11. Charge up your computer battery before you leave the US. If you fly through the Beijing airport, you can access its free wi-fi in many locations. It also has a Starbucks, so if you're a coffee drinker, you can get your fix. By the way, coffee IS available, though you'll likely have to get it at import stores. The other alternative is to drink the instant stuff which is sold in most supermarkets.
12. Chinese people abide by the calendar and not the season. For example, it could be unseasonably cold one day in November, but gloves and/or heavy coats won't be worn by locals until a certain date has officially arrived. Likewise, you may be tempted to wear sandals as early as April, but be prepared for scornful looks from old grannies if you do so before a certain date.
13. If you are NOT familiar with the history and current standing of Taiwan and Hong Kong among mainlanders, do some research before arriving so that you don't say something that might offend locals. I can't say much on these two issues.
14. Assume that all your communication will be monitored. Exercise discretion when having conversations with people back home and even with people here.
15. Try to get business cards printed as soon as possible after arriving, with one side in English and one side in Chinese. Giving your business card is quite a compliment and honor to the recipient, and it will be accepted with both hands. Giving with both hands is recommended.
16. "Guanxi" is a word you should learn from the start. It represents the often complicated and extensive network of contacts that one uses in order to receive help, social mobility, benefits and the like. Establishing guanxi is an integral part of the culture here. Yes, you will be asked for help and assistance from colleagues and students, but the nice thing is that you can also return the request. Likewise, if you ask someone for a favor, expect that it will be reciprocated at some point in time.
17. Chinese people have superstitions about almost everything. If you get sick at some point, you will likely receive helpful messages such as, "Feel better soon and drink more hot water!" "Wear more clothes!" This is their way of showing concern.
18. If your students are anything like mine, they will practically trip over themselves to help you in any way. Spending time with a foreign teacher is a bragging right, and they also vie for the opportunity to practice their English. Take advantage of it and utilize local students to help you get around the city and get your place equipped.
19. Learn to hold things very loosely in your grasp. Things in China change quickly, and the locals are able to adapt without much anxiety.
20. Have some songs tucked in your pocket for immediate use. At banquets, in particular, you will be expected to sing. Don't worry if you don't have a good voice. No one will care. They will applaud you as if you were Celine Dion performing at Caesar's Palace. (Many of my Chinese friends are tone deaf, so in comparison, I'm a musical prodigy.) :-)
21. Make sure your family has your mailing address in both Chinese and English. If they can print it out or copy/paste it into a customs form, it will help expedite any shipments from home. My mom is a pro at this. She uses the USPS for most shipments.
22. Bring small gifts from home to present to the people who will help you transition. This likely includes your department head, the dean of your department, your Foreign Affairs Officer (usually the person at the school who helps you sort out your visa and residence permit), and maybe a few others. We usually bring things like scented soaps, chocolates, and small jars of canned preserves.
23. If possible, check with your school to see if your paycheck will be deposited into your bank account. Believe it or not, some teachers are still payed in stacks of cash. (China is still largely a cash-based society.) You may want to see if your bank in the States has any sort of partnerships with Chinese banks. For example, I can use my Chinese ATM card at certain ATMs in the States with no transaction fee.
24. Students LOVE to try American food. If you don't cook, you might want to learn at least a few basic recipes which will earn you major points over here. If you like to cook, you'll be an instant favorite.
