Bridge Between Cultures

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Introduction

Bridge Between Culture’s mission is to spread proficient English education and introduce the starkly different culture of America to non-urban, low-income areas of China. Their goal is to help as many children who lacks access to English education as possible.

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Nikki's Thoughts |

Watching the interview, I was completely awe-struck by Bridge Between Cultures, a mission-driven organization that aims to spread proficient English education to non-urban areas of China. Cathy was driven to help children who lack access to quality language instruction, and the organization strives to bridge the gap between educational resources and students in need. By creating effective lesson materials and fostering cross-cultural connections, they aim to empower students to thrive in a globalized society.

In rural towns in China, we witness the challenges faced by schools in these regions. Outdated textbooks and teachers with limited verbal skills hamper the English proficiency of students, and the organization looks to leverage their own American education; they realized the potential of using innovative teaching methods and real-world applications to enhance learning outcomes for these children.

Cathy and her team acknowledge several challenges that may hinder their mission, as non-native Chinese-speaking lecturers and teachers face difficulties communicating effectively with parents, decreasing proper engagement. Additionally, limited access to technology, such as laptops or large screens, creates barriers to classroom participation. They are actively addressing these challenges to ensure a better learning environment, and spread the word through personal connections to identify students who can benefit from the BBC program.

It is admirable to see how firmly BBC believes that acceptance and respect are vital in overcoming cultural differences, and I wholeheartedly agree. Recognizing that diverse backgrounds shape individual perspectives, they approach teaching with patience, correcting language inaccuracies while maintaining respect for cultural experiences. Their aim is to create an inclusive environment where differences are celebrated and embraced. BBC’s goal is to assist at least 50 students by the end of this year, and connect younger Chinese students with American high schoolers.

BBC utilizes the skills of empathy and patience through active listening and non-verbal communication, such as visual aids and gestures when words fail to bridge ideas. When encountering language barriers, they provide simplified explanations using existing vocabulary, ensuring comprehension. Patience and a willingness to solve problems together are key to overcoming linguistic challenges.

Bridge Between Cultures stands at the forefront of promoting proficient English education to non-urban areas of China. By leveraging their experiences, connections, and innovative teaching methods, BBC strives to empower students for success in a globalized world. Together, we can break down cultural barriers, foster understanding, and create a brighter future for all by supporting the BBC and their mission. Thank you Bridge Between Cultures!!

Sherry's Thoughts |

I’d like to say my heart immediately dropped and fear rapidly bled its way into my mind when my parents told me our family was moving from China to the States, but I would be lying. In fact, I thought I’d be prepared to take on a new era of my life — communication had never been a problem for me, and my parents had me taking English lessons at a young age. Naivete obscured the true nature of the experience of being dropped in an unfamiliar culture.

In many ways, both the mentors and mentees of Bridge Between Cultures reminded me of myself. I was five and terrified when I was forced head-first into American culture, and BBC’s mission of providing not only language assistance but also a way to share the unique beauties of such different cultures is a resource I wish I had access to. It’s for the same reason Cathy started BBC that I held English classes for Chinese students during COVID-19: to create a sort of mutual understanding between people of the same ethnicity but with such distinct experiences growing up. With Bridge Between Cultures, it truly feels like a wish being put into action.

Even starting small can create an enormous impact, and BBC is proof. Despite their small scope, the children they influence and the people they touch will forever hold these memories as encounters that broaden their horizons. The connection of groups of people, whether within small communities or across vast oceans, veritably change lives. Not only should acceptance and toleration be encouraged, but a deeper appreciation of people from diverse backgrounds should be strived for, and BBC accomplishes just that.