Beginning Chinese — Lesson 2: Taking on a Chinese Identity and Expertise on Designing a Modern China

In the first half of the class: 
       Ms. Whitney researched each of our ambassador's first names to find the Chinese equivalent. However, it is not a simple translation of the English letters that make up our name to the corresponding Chinese characters that an online translator could provide. Instead, Chinese names represent a trait, a metaphysical quality, that goes beyond just giving you an identity for others to address you as. Names symbolize qualities like trust, strength, and wisdom. Each of our ambassadors were given a unique name that correlates to the traits he or she possesses that help our program be a community of talented students, each bringing something special. By embracing our new identities for the summer program, the interactions between Wuxi students and SOS ambassadors will enrich the once in a lifetime opportunity this travel experience will bring, and open new perspectives to how we all live our lives here on planet Earth. ​

chinese_names_中文的名字-2.pdf
File Size:	77 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

---

In the second half of the class:
    Our students heard a presentation delivered by two guest speakers that explained, through first-hand knowledge, the designing of a modern China that maintains traditional heritage, because they are helping build it. Global architects, Mr. James Andrews, and Ms. Yanjing Chen, representing the company, Overland Partners, gave insight to our ambassadors how China is remodeling their infrastructure and foundation by bringing their country to the twenty-first century in design. Mr. Andrews shared his story and personal interest in helping China rebuild their cities through photos and fascinating narrative. As one of the few western architects privileged enough to participate with multiple teams of Chinese leaders tasked with designing entire city blueprints, Mr. Andrews and his assistant provided a unique perspective on the globalization taking place right now between countries. 

The ambassadors got to hear about amazing projects Mr. Andrews and Ms. Chen have been apart of, but the take away message Overland Partners wanted to share with SOS is the importance of friendship and trust among the Chinese. Mr. Andrews gives credit for the partnership his company and China share to the personal connections he has made over the years. 

With the aid of Ms. Whitney's Chinese culture classes, and Mr. Andrew's message to our ambassadors to travel their with open-minds and embrace the new friendships SOS will make, our China program is well underway to help change lives for all those participating and continue to have our community grow beyond just San Antonio. 


If you are interested in Overland Partners, or would like to learn more information about the architect, Mr. James Andrews, please visit their website at,

​http://www.overlandpartners.com/people/james-andrews/