[ ZIGONG CITY, CHINA ] Four current Hope International University Education students – Briana Gamez, Natalie Valdez, Kayla Jensen, and Ronica Dixon — taught Science, Math, Art, Robotics, and Physical Education at an 11-day STEAM Camp for a group of 75 Chinese students ranging in age from 9 to 16. The HIU group conducted classes from 8:30am to 5:00pm each day and explored the area each evening.

“This was a great experience for our students who were able to get real hands-on experience teaching in a cross-cultural setting in the beautiful Sichuan province of China,” says Judy Kim, HIU’s Director of International Student Programs (ISP) and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Education, who served as a supervisor and teacher. “Everyone worked hard and enjoyed great interaction with the Chinese students who got to make new American friends through fun, engaging, collaborative lessons taught in English.”

HIU offers this immersive study abroad experience as a 3-unit course, “Contemporary Issues in Education,” in which the students learn about the education system and culture of China, prepare lessons, and teach classes. The trip was coordinated by Judy Kim in partnership with Gary Surdam, President of Bright Start Education.