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Why Chinese and Asians Study Abroad: An Independent Counselor's Take
Young Lee (reporter) asked a few questions to Lihong Ni, an experienced educator who works with Chinese and Asian students applying to study abroad. Reporter: What are the main reasons Chinese and other Asian youth choose to study abroad in middmiddle and high school? Lihong: There are as many reasons as there are students, but in my experience there are a few general categories. First, there are kids who simply want the best education possible. These are super achievers who generally want to get into the top American Colleges. Their parents are usually very successful and have high hopes for their children. These kids have been pushed and prodded to be #1 as long as they can remember. Secondly, there are those who are concerned their children aren't going to get a good enough GaoKao to get into a top 10 Chinese or Asian university. These tend to be struggling children of very successful business people who see studying abroad as a way to get a fresh start. Last are those who want a bigger world view. Sometimes it's the kids, sometimes it's the parents (and sometimes the parents just want to take their business global so they want the kids to speak English.) This category varies quite a bit more since the students and parents usually don't know as much about the US education system and the complexities and costs involved. Reporter: Are more students leaving for High School as well? Lihong: We are seeing more and more interest in high school. Parents seem increasingly skeptical of the Chinese high school system where much importance is given to the GaoKao. Moreover, parents see American boarding schools as a way to help their children get into top 10 US schools. Parents are, nevertheless, reluctant to send their children away at so young an age. Safety is always an issue and that's what I like about Pennsylvania International Academy. I have met the owner and they try very hard to have the safest environment for the children. Reporter: What are the main countries of interest when choosing to study abroad? Lihong: The United States is by far favored, with England and Australia tied for second. It may be that the US education is seen as much better or simply that there are so many more Boarding Academies in America. Reporter: What is the largest factor in choosing a Boarding Academy/School abroad? Lihong: A good school with the right preparatory courses for American colleges and universities. Having an international baccalaureate program is always a good thing. Knowledgable and caring teachers is also important. It's impossible to explain the concept of "good fit" or "educational culture" to Chinese parents. They are paying top dollar for tuition, they want something to brag about. Reporter: If a young Chinese person would like to study abroad, how hoes he or she go about doing this? Lihong: For people who go directly to schools, high school fairs seem to be popular ways to get started along with having trustworthy educational consultants. Reporter: Why do you like Pennsylvania International Academy? Lihong: I have been there many times and have met all the staff. They give 100% to make sure each student is treated individually, give them the best education in America and communicate with the parents well. Also, they have a large number of activities for students to participate in. In addition, they understand the pressures and the ups and downs of studying abroad. Reporter: Thank you |
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