Emerson's Preparedness For China
By Sandra Garcia
July 17, 2008
Now that I have been in Beijing a little over a week, I am beginning to see some recurring patterns between Emerson students and the rest of the ONS student volunteers. I am not sure what preparation the other colleges had as far as language study and flash quote reporting. However, I am sure that everything taught during the two-day training period served as a refresher course for the material that Paul Niwa taught during the Spring semester.
I have never felt so prepared to begin a job than I do now. Between Paul and Shujen Wang, I have learned important Mandarin phrases (which have already come in handy on countless occasions) as well as how to take down relevant quotes and ask solid questions. Looking around the room during the training sessions, the confusion on some students faces made it evident that not all of them have had this luxury.
Because of our prior training, a number of Emersonians were able to contribute to discussions and answer questions. I was, and continue to be, impressed at the knowledge and confidence that my collegues have shown so far. Listening to some of the comments and questions that have been asked (by students from other schools) during the training sessions as well as on tours of the city, makes me glad that Emerson students are one step ahead!
Wow! This is amazing. Emerson's website includes the following description of the Department of Journalism; "...the Department of Journalism is committed to educating journalists who can bring intelligence and context to the complex issues facing our diverse world.". Sandra's blog and so many others directly underscore this comment.
I have heard similar remarks from my niece, another Emerson student who is in Beijing. Initially I was proud of her for her acceptance into this program; later, for her enthusiasm and determination to endure the seemingly rigorous preparation.
And now I am welling with pride. I can see that she, and all Emerson students on this trip, are acutely aware of the value this level of preparedness offers. And more importantly they are openly, sincerely appreciative. This is no lesson to be learned in classroom. Parents may attempt to instill such knowledge in their children throughout their childhood, but this is simply a life lesson that can only be learned through life experience. And what a remarkable job Emerson did facilitating that lesson!
Students: Know that your parents, friends, family and Emerson faculty are ALL welling with pride! You are remarkable young people and we wish you all the best!
What a wonderful window. Thanks for allowing me to look into your experience through it and feel the pride of dedicated, talented faculty and intelligent, passionate students! I'm enjoying hearing about your success as well as your challenges and I'm delighted you feel prepared to enjoy the experience from a position of excitement rather than from a feeling of overwhelming anxiety! I know you are an awesome group and we are proud you are representing us so well and also gaining such an amazing experience. Expression -- Necessary to Evolution!