Chinese teacher Yan Liu has a strong passion for English and helping students.
Although adjusting to new teaching environments can be difficult, Chinese teacher Yan Liu is proud to be part of NHS.
Liu, also known as Selena by students and teachers, came to Neenah on July 21. When she heard about this teaching program here, she knew it would be meaningful. The ability to help students is great, especially from someone who came right from China!
When arriving at Neenah she noticed many things that were different from her hometown Tianjin, China. She loves it here and she said that students are, “very respectful — I love that” with a bright smile on her face.
Liu was surprised by student participation in homecoming dress up days. Liu thought it was quite interesting as she giggled in her classroom. She never experienced homecoming before. In China students stay in the same classroom during the day. Only teachers move around, having a 10 minute passing time. Liu is still trying to get used to the fact that the bell dismisses, usually in China the teacher gets to tells students when to leave.
Liu learned the English language starting in elementary school. She knew she would eventually want to major in it, she loves English! Her fluent languages are Chinese and English and she knows a bit of Japanese. Liu also has a love for singing, besides, who can go wrong with Chinese pop music. Liu shared that it is good music to sing to and listen to for pleasure.
In terms of her personal life, Liu was born an only child. Today she is currently married with the love of her life and her adorable 7-year-old son Fan guang Xuan. Her husband and son are currently back home in Tianjin, China. She does, however, miss her loving family, friends and the food from back home. She has no current pets here. Her passion for helping students is strong. “Every child who wants to know Chinese deserves to learn it” Liu said with a caring glance. It seemed the room got brighter as she really expressed her passion for helping and teaching.
Liu would describe herself as a nice, not too strict, and easy going person. Her career is her life and helping students accomplish their language goals. She is not the average write on the board take notes, grammar teacher. She lets the students experience the Chinese holidays. Additionally, her students got to learn Taichi outside because experiencing the culture is important in a language class. Taichi is a form of martial arts that combines graceful movements with meditation. It is a great cultural factor to experience.
Liu has a strong passion for English and helping students, she always carries the brightest look on her face, she is already giving students new life experiences and will further spread the amazing language.
