Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Northwest University


We came to Xi'an as participants in a recently established exchange program between the University of New Mexico and Northwest University. The trip was funded by a UNM Regent's scholarship as well as a Benjamin Gilman scholarship for the study of 'Critical Need Languages.' I will be studying Mandarin Chinese 4 hours a day, 5 days a week through Northwest's Chinese Language and Culture classes. I will also be doing independent research into Xi'an's diverse artistic and religious heritage. We intend to visit Hua Shan (one of Daoism's sacred mountains) as well as the Qingling Mountains to the south, which are home to the Giant Panda and the snub-nosed monkey.
Here Kalila and I are exploring the campus and trying to shake off the jet lag. This gazebo and courtyard are directly behind our dormitory. Northwest has a beautiful campus with many gardens and open areas. It is a much appreciated oasis of calm within the bustling city of Xi'an. The campus is located just outside the walls of the old city, perfectly located to explore the ancient cultural sights.

1 comment:

LopezAlex said...

Hi Alice!
Having a baby certainly hasn't slowed you down! Congratulations on heading to China and thank you for the blog notice. I'llb be sure to keep an eye our for your updates. Hey, remember you spoke to a friend of mine about teaching abroad...Mimi Lin is in Shanghai right now. Where exactly in China are you? When did you arrive? And what is Sam studying?