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Stephen Lin
I have been here at Potomac Chinese School for almost as long as I can remember.
For many years thought of Chinese school as just another nuisance, another source of
homework and unwanted stress. I remember missing parties and other outings with my friends on Sundays because I had to go to school. But looking back, I realize the benefits from my time here far outweigh the many missed activities I turned down to go to Chinese school.
Aside from my parents and my family, Chinese school is the only other source from which I learned about my heritage and culture. Besides learning the language, I've learned about traditional arts, stories, and time-honored traditions. Learning about one's cultural identity is extremely important. I hope to someday live in China for an extended period of time (not in the near future, though) to hone my Chinese.
China is quickly becoming a political superpower and its economy is growing at a rapid rate. Knowing Chinese will become an increasingly useful skill, both socially and economically. Trust me, being able to communicate in Chinese will be a major advantage in the future. Knowledge of a 2nd language always helps.
I'll be heading off to the University of Pennsylvania next year, where they have a language requirement. At the very least, my time spent at Chinese school will allow me to place out of the language requirement and have more space to take other classes (yay?). I hope to join some Chinese cultural clubs there.
Chinese school is one of those things that you definitely don’t miss until its gone. My experience at Potomac Chinese School has been invaluable and will probably continue to serve me for many years to come. So make use of your time now, and try to enjoy it!
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