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Yep, you heard that right. I had the incredible experience of teaching American Government and American History AP classes as well as Psychology, Business and Economics to Chinese students at a bilingual school in Shanghai, partnered with Texas University. For a year, I got to dive into the U.S. Constitution, landmark Supreme Court cases, and key moments in American history, all through the curious eyes of students who were skipping Gaokao to aim for American universities.
Who did they love most? Martin Luther King Jr. was a big hit, his speeches left them in awe. We talked about the New Deal, the Civil Rights Movement, and even had lively debates about the concept of “checks and balances.” They found it fascinating (and slightly puzzling) that Congress could spend so much time debating bills instead of just getting things done.
Speaking of debates, we had bi-weekly sessions where they tackled recent world events and America’s role in them. Their questions were sharp. “Why does the U.S. still use the Electoral College instead of the popular vote?” they’d ask, genuinely perplexed. Or, “Isn’t it easier to travel around the country now compared to the 18th century?” That one always cracked me up. Their expressions of pure surprise when they learned that the U.S. doesn’t have high-speed rail connecting its major cities were priceless. They’d say, “Wait, you mean no sleek bullet trains? It must be expensive, and it must take forever to get anywhere!” I couldn’t argue with them on that one.
It was fascinating, seeing America through their eyes. They knew how the government worked, appreciated the spirit of debate, and questioned everything with a refreshing mix of curiosity and wit. Watching them connect dots between history, governance, and their own worldviews was as inspiring as it was entertaining. Honestly, approaching the country with an open mind and learning about it as a student even before moving to the U.S. is such a smart move. Many of them graduated and eventually moved back to China. When I asked why, they just smiled and said, ‘Well, the lack of modern infrastructure and public transportation among many reasons, of course. Fair point!’
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