Semester of Chinese and Volunteering

China Study Abroad offers a unique program for people who would like to study Chinese and volunteer at a local orphanage and other places. This is a great opportunity for all language levels, from those curious about Chinese to those whom have taken previous classes. Volunteers spend a semester at Beijing Language and Culture University and two afternoons a month volunteering at the local Beijing orphanages. An addition, once a month you will join other international students for a weekend of traveling to other schools in rural China to volunteer at other project that are ongoing. You can also have the option to help with other project on any of the free weekends, this is optional.
This program is for those who are committed to learning Chinese and giving back to Chinese communities. Volunteering can offer a once in a lifetime opportunity to get to learn about new cultures, meet new people and have a positive impact on a community. It can also help you figure out your future goals.

Volunteer Trips:
CSA recommends volunteers to research the language program before entering. Your first two weeks will allow to get to know your surroundings and the amount of work needed to be done while a student. After this, CSA will discuss with you what is expected of you as a volunteer, what the experience will be like and your placement, this including a history of the location.

Each experience is unique. Knowing where you are going will help you maximize your time as a volunteer. CSA will help you prepare for what is involved on the weekend trips to rural Chinese towns so that you can be prepared. The weekend trips requires taking an overnight train. You will be introduced to the students of the rural town with a question and answer session done in Chinese. Most of these students have never met or seen a foreigner before. This will be a great experience for you and them.

Orphanage Visits:
Many of the orphanages, schools or centers are focused on disadvantaged children. These children are either orphaned, from poorer communities or have disabilities including learning disabilities. Volunteers play with the children, help with daily activities or basic maintenance and upkeep like painting.
These organizations help keep the cost low for parents who can not afford special centers or schools for their children. Ages of the children range from 0-19 years old. CSA volunteers do their part to help with the caring and safe environments these children need.