Marco Gomez from Mexico (the Gentleman in the middle)
Mandarin Day Time class, from Lower Intermediate 4 to Upper Intermediate 2 (12/4 -17/6, 2011)
Switched to Evening class after started a Full Time Job (4/7- 19/9, 2011)
Mandarin Upper Intermediate Evening class (1/3, 2012 – Present )
1, Why did you choose Hong Kong Language School?
I decided to join HK Language School for various reasons.
First, they offered classes at various levels, including mine. It is not uncommon in language schools to have only either basic or advanced levels, with intermediate students left literally, “in the middle”. This was not the case, and I was immediately placed in a group adequate to my level.
The school is very conveniently located, with easy access by bus or MTR. The staff was very friendly and helpful when we enquired about the courses and they have a good schedule flexibility. The final (and not least important) reason was cost. Compared to other options, HK Language school is very budget friendly, which added to all the other advantages it has, made my decision to join very easy!
2, How’s the school environment?
Once I joined, I felt immediately welcomed. The school environment is indeed friendly, which confirmed my initial impression. They have a good supply of coffee, water and snacks for the students, they are always helpful and attentive, and the teachers are all very friendly. I can confidently say that in a very short time I made a few actual friends, which, as an expat living in a place very far away from home is important and not too easy.
3, How’s the class atmosphere?
Definitely going to class and continue learning that you want to do, not simply something you need to do. Learning must be interesting and fun, and in HK Language School they definitely succeed.
Classes are generally made up of 3-4 students, which makes it great for learning. Depending on your level that might be even smaller.
4, How’s your teacher? Was your class effective? Did you learn what you had expected?
Unlike other places, teachers actually prepare their classes according to each individual’s needs. This is priceless. The teachers actually like what they do, and they care about their students. And it shows. They promote learning the language while being as friendly as possible, within the boundaries of good teacher-student dynamics. This is good because after all, we go there to learn. If friendships are created, there is always time for fun after class.
Since I joined I’ve had two teachers, both being excellent. As I said, they enjoy teaching and sincerely seek that students learn. They understand mandarin is not an easy language to learn, and they are very patient and dedicated. It is very important that they are from Mainland China, not only because of the accent and pronunciation, but also for idiomatic expressions and way of speaking.
My classes have been very effective. I feel I have improved substantially since coming here, and people around me with whom I communicate in mandarin think likewise.
5. Will you recommend Hong Kong Language School to your friends? Why?
I strongly recommend people to come and try learning in the HK Language School, it will be very rewarding!
