Happy Lunar New Year! Chinese families around the world are celebrating the Spring Festival and ushering in the Year of the Pig. Of course, every family’s traditions are different. But many families celebrate the Chinese New Year with dumplings, mandarin oranges, red envelopes, spring cleaning, and fireworks!
As we usher in the year of the pig today, we’re also diving in to why 2019 is the best year yet to teach in China.
In Chinese culture, pigs are the symbol of wealth
Celebrated not just in China but in Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia and the Phillippines, tradition sees every year characterized by an animal of the Chinese zodiac. 2019 is the year of the pig. Those born in a year of the pig are sure to see prosperity if they work hard!
Another way Chinese families celebrate the Lunar New Year is with red envelopes. Senior family members put cash (cha-ching!) inside to give to their younger relatives. It can be anywhere from a few dollars to a few hundred! In addition, bosses present these red envelope gifts to their employees. Even if you are not born in a year of the pig, the hope is that all will benefit from the pig’s generosity and wisdom!
Because of China’s size & diversity, there are many opportunities for teachers
Another form of prosperity is finding connections with others. If you’ve ever traveled abroad, you know how special your friendships with people of other cultures are. API offers educators and socially driven global citizens the chance to dive into a new, rewarding adventure. We personally match each and every teacher to their perfect family/student. If you take part in our Teach in China program (with placements in local schools), you’ll have a private bedroom within an apartment or university-style dorm shared by other teachers. For participants who take part in our homestay program, you’ll have the opportunity to live with a host family! Most of our host families live in suburban areas or downtown Shanghai. No matter where you end up, API will make sure you’re comfortable!
China brings a unique blend of the past & the future
Teaching abroad in China allows you to spend the year of the pig exploring the country’s beautiful past and unique future. China presents a fascinating juxtaposition – it is home to one of the world’s most ancient civilizations caught in the midst of some of the most rapid expansion of economy and infrastructure in history. The pace of development and change has grown exponentially over the course of three decades, and now cities like Shanghai are world-class centers of business, culture, finance, and trade.
On the flip side, China also has an extensive history for you to explore. As early as 1.7 million years ago, the earliest humans are believed to have evolved on this land. China’s many people and diverse culture is made up of 56 ethnic minority groups, fostering distinctive customs and traditions.
