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A woman standing with a student in front of greenery, they are leaning towards each other and smiling at the camera.

Guangyu Hao is a Chinese language instructor at Emma Willard and joined the school in 2022. Ms. Hao is also the adult advisor to the Asian Student Union (ASU) and assistant coach for swimming and diving. Before coming to Emma, Ms. Hao worked as a Chinese language lecturer at Columbia University and New York University in New York City. We asked Guangyu four questions about her role at Emma Willard.

#1 — What brought you to Emma Willard School?

Before coming to Emma Willard, I was teaching Chinese at colleges. I really enjoyed working with college students and having a four-day workweek was a bonus. Yet, there was always a sense that something crucial, like a missing puzzle piece, was lacking in my career. I began searching for this missing piece and realized that, at my ideal school, I would have the opportunity to wholeheartedly dedicate myself to supporting students in a much broader way. I would have the chance to witness and celebrate their growth in all aspects of life. I could step into the role of a mentor, encouraging these young individuals to chase their dreams. It would be a thrilling prospect to share my cultural experiences with the wider community. After my interview visit at Emma Willard, it struck me that this lovely school could be the place where I find that missing piece! Emma Willard's mission perfectly aligns with my aspirations.

Several teachers dressed in chef and food-themed costumes smiling at the camera in a hallway.

Guangyu and the rest of the language department in their costumes for the 2023 'Mock Revels' performance

 

#2 — What is a typical day in the life at Emma like for you?

I am a night owl, which means I often rush in the morning to start my day. Typically, I wake up just an hour before my first scheduled task of the day. After a quick shower, I head directly to school with a refreshed mood and mind (as you might have guessed, I don't eat breakfast). Then, my day flies by with a whirlwind of activities: teaching Chinese classes at all levels, attending meetings with different groups of faculty and students, preparing for events with ASU (we are currently working on the celebration for the Mid-Autumn Festival), assigning and grading homework, managing emails, and assisting in coaching the fantastic swimming and diving team. Lunchtime always rushes by, but it's also joyful because I get to eat quickly while enjoying conversations with other teachers.

After school, I continue working. I like to play my favorite Mandarin pop music while I work on my lesson plans. Sometimes, I even have Chinese TV shows playing in the background. Additionally, I host and read with my friends in my online reading salon. If time permits, I video call my parents before heading to bed around midnight (or sometimes even a bit later).

A teacher and students stand with college tour guides at a statue of a lion on a college campus.

Guangyu and Chinese class students on a trip to New York City

 

#3 — What is one thing about teaching Chinese at Emma that would surprise people?

A language instructor is far more than just someone who can speak the target language; this implies that not all native speakers can effectively become language instructors. Within our department, our teachers possess extensive knowledge of languages and a diverse range of talents. We are enthusiasts of literature, explorers of history, passionate linguists, and innovators in teaching methodologies.

Moreover, we do not simply teach students the languages themselves; we guide them in the exploration of new worlds. We create learning opportunities that enable students to immerse themselves in languages and cultures within their communities and the real world, moving beyond the mere repetition of words from textbooks. Our goal is to assist them in developing language skills and, perhaps even more significantly, in establishing connections in an increasingly diverse global landscape.

#4 — What is your favorite space, place, or tradition on the Emma campus?

There are so many great places on campus, so it is difficult to choose only one! I always enjoy decorating the exhibition board with students’ works by the door of my classroom but, this year, my new energy-boosting place is the swimming pool, where I can applaud and cheer loudly for our hardworking swimmers and divers.

As for tradition, I have no reason not to go with the Lunar New Year Celebration (which is widely celebrated across Asian countries and cultures). Last year, I was really happy and grateful when I saw it being shared and celebrated throughout the entire Emma community. The students’ talent show was very impressive and touching. I cannot wait to have it again this year!

Teachers pose in a faux Polaroid- backdrop at a mid-autumn festival

Guangyu and faculty pose in the photobooth at the 2023 Mid-Autumn Festival

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