Langston interview with Mr. Zhang

For my interview I was able to sit down and have a discussion with Hui Zhang. Mr. Zhang is a science teacher at Prospectus Calumet Technical Charter High school. Originally from China Hui and his family moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan at the age of six. He attended Michigan University and moved to Chicago shortly after he graduated. Here is our discussion.

1. What major cultural difference would a westerner experience visiting China, and what challenges did you face first coming to the U.S.

Since I came here when I was younger, I didn't really realize all of the challenges I faced. However, looking back, my challenges were mostly due to the language barrier. I often didn't really know what was going on in school and the classroom rules when I was in 1st and 2nd grade. But, I quickly figured it out. I think a cultural difference that a westerner would experience would be the fact that there are some social norms in America that don't exist in China. For example, communal meals where people share dishes are very common (family style eating). Also, blowing your nose in public without tissue is common too. Someimtes, people will blow their nose into their hands and then wash their hands. Also, people can sometimes stand closer to you when talking to you than you see here in the US.

2. Do you feel that Americans have a true understanding of Chinese culture and if we do not what stereotype is over exaggerated.

I think one thing is that not all Chinese people are good at math and science. Although this is often true, not every Asian/Chinese kid is good at those subjects. Also, I just think the Chinese culture is not as exotic or mystical as Americans can sometimes think. The average Chinese person lives their lives like many Americans. It's all about supporting your family and doing what is best for your kids. Chinese people do very value education and place importance on education over everything else.

3. Do you feel that China is in the maturing stage still or have they become a world power (i.e. United Stated and certain countries the EU).

I feel that China is a world power. They do have signs of immaturity in terms of international relations (such as occasional bouts of isolationism) but overall, China is extremely stable and will continue to be a power in the world not only economically but also politically.


4. How has the recent emergence of Shanghai and Beijing, affected the surrounding areas (i.e. population, economically, politically).

The population of the surrounding rural areas flock to the big cities for work. The cities are being overpopulated a little bit from people looking for jobs. It's creating discrimination between original city dwellers and new immigrants. It's an interesting dynamic because the immigrants usually occupy low level service jobs and the city dwellers look down on them while using their services.

5. What is the most endearing aspect of China from your viewpoint.
The people and the culture are awesome. I really miss my family. I love that Chinese people are so caring and welcoming to all people. I also love the culture behind its food. Food is a way for parents and friends to express love. There's a joke in the Chinese culture that you show love through food. Parents will often slave over meals for days for family gatherings. Parents will also cook special meals in preparation for a upcoming test for their kids. It's very endearing.