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Chinese

Chinese

Why study Chinese at Alma

The Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) between China and the US promise unprecedented economic corporation of these two powerful countries in the future.

Chinese

The 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games shed new light on the developments of Chinese civilization.

At a time of transition, it is essential to understand the differences between Chinese and American cultures as well as the impact of Chinese culture on American society.

In order to meet the challenges of the 21st century, the Department of Modern Languages offers two Chinese courses in the academic year 2008-2009 to meet the increasing needs of Alma students to learn Chinese, a language spoken by 1.2 billion people.

Chinese city

The State's Concert Hall

Courses

Chinese 111 (F) and Chinese 112(W): Primary objective: to enable students to communicate in Chinese in every day situations.

Emphasis is placed on all four basic skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. Students will not only learn Pinyin, but also Simplified Characters. Secondary objective provides insight through participation in Chinese culture and society.

All courses will be taught by Dr. Holly Liu, a native of Beijing, who is specialized in German and Chinese languages, literatures and cultures.

There is also a native assistant to teach the labs, host the Chinese Table and other cultural activities. Interested students should register directly or contact Dr. Liu at liu@alma.edu or (989) 463-7237.

 

In the more than 100 years since its founding, Alma has stayed true to its roots by keeping its Scottish heritage alive. Today, Alma features a marching band clad in Kilts, a Scottish dance troupe, student pipers and its own tartan. Each year, the College hosts the Alma Highland Festival and Games, which feature traditional Scottish games and revelry.

 

Graduate Profile

Amanda Leppek
Graduation: 2006
Major: Spanish and Sociology
Minor: Psychology

Amanda Leppek knew she wanted to perfect her Spanish, and realized the only way to do this would be to study in a Spanish-speaking country.

“The Spanish program in particular was definitive for my Alma, and more broadly my college, experience because of my time spent studying abroad,” the 2006 graduate says.