Joining the Warwick Mandarin Chinese Society: The Skills I've Gained

10 December 2024

When I joined the Mandarin Society, I expected to learn a new language and immerse myself in a fascinating culture. What I didn’t anticipate, however, was the range of transferable skills I would develop along the way. Being part of this vibrant community has enriched my understanding of Mandarin and Chinese culture and equipped me with valuable abilities that extend far beyond the realm of language learning. Here are the key skills I’ve gained while attending the Mandarin Chinese Society:

Language proficiency 

The Mandarin Chinese Society provided a structured and engaging environment where I could learn and practice Mandarin. Regular language classes tailored to your current language level, buddy schemes, and cultural events helped me improve my speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and developed a craving to practice more. For example, attending weekly language classes allowed me to practice everyday dialogues with native speakers, building my confidence for real-world situations or simply for fun and leisure. I was also involved in the creation of the executive hoodies! 

Communication skills 

Adding on to language proficiency, participating in society’s activities required effective communication, sometimes across language barriers. Whether it was coordinating with native speakers, presenting at cultural events, or simply practising conversational Mandarin, I honed my ability to convey ideas clearly, and I’m getting more confident each day. Additionally, being a Publicity and Welfare Officer has taught me how to engage an audience in various ways, through using visual aids such as Instagram effectively and delivering content confidently while ensuring the well-being of members and executives. These experiences have been invaluable in improving both verbal and non-verbal communication skills.  

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Cultural appreciation 

I developed a deeper appreciation for Chinese culture, traditions, and history. Wearing traditional Chinese outfits and participating in cultural events and festivals such as Chinese New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival has broadened my perspective, making me more empathetic and open-minded when interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. 

Networking and building relationships 

Being part of the Mandarin Chinese Society has introduced me to a diverse group of people, including native speakers, fellow learners, and people simply passionate about Chinese culture. For example, I formed lasting friendships with such amazing people, which meant I could practice Mandarin outside of a formal setting and participate in simple Chinese Traditions. Additionally, our collaborations with other societies hosted by the Mandarin Chinese society allowed me to connect with other students who may not be entirely interested in the Chinese culture or language, but merging their interests with one of mine is such a surprising yet rewarding experience. For instance, attending the collaboration between the Mandarin Society and the Good Food Society introduced me to a new Chinese dish- Tangyuan, while making new friends and unforgettable memories. These interactions not only enriched my experience but also expanded my network, opening doors to internships, mentorship opportunities, and collaborations that I might not have encountered otherwise. 
 
A final word...  

Joining the Mandarin Chinese Society has been a transformative experience, offering far more than language skills. The communication and cultural awareness I’ve developed are invaluable assets that will serve me in many aspects of life. Whether you’re looking to learn a new language, develop transferable skills or simply find people with similar interests to you, joining a society like this is an opportunity worth embracing.