Beijing is a city at the center of the world. At the very least, it's very good at seeing itself as such. China's capital for multiple dynasties, as well as the central stage for some of the most important events of the 20th century, the city is used to being the center of attention. With an official population of over 21 million and rapidly mushrooming infrastructure, modern Beijing can overwhelm (as can the infamous - and decreasingly severe - smog). But wander into the lush parks, verdant with aromatic cypress and crowded with elderly exercisers; or venture into the 胡同 hutong, the ancient network of living alleyways lined with buildings new and old, graceful and ugly, that capillary throughout the older neighborhoods, and you'll see the human face of the city. Here, at the center of the world, life goes on (plus or minus a few demolitions) much as it has for years.
CAIS programs in Beijing are based in the north-central portion of the city between the 2nd and 3rd ring roads. This location puts us in the middle of a vibrant neighborhood and gives us easy access to the city's most famous sites: the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, ancient hutong neighborhoods, 798 art district, Yonghegong, and others.
While in Beijing, CAIS students will attend school, live with host families, and visit famous sights. Central to the program, however, is the utilization of the surrounding environment as a source for language learning and enrichment. To improve language proficiency and independence, students will spend much time exploring neighborhoods, conducting interviews, and doing things on their own: asking directions, taking public transport, buying food, and more.
Ultimately, Beijing - aside from being the center of the world - is a fantastic introduction to the wild and wonderful world of China for CAIS students.
CAIS programs in Beijing are based in the north-central portion of the city between the 2nd and 3rd ring roads. This location puts us in the middle of a vibrant neighborhood and gives us easy access to the city's most famous sites: the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, ancient hutong neighborhoods, 798 art district, Yonghegong, and others.
While in Beijing, CAIS students will attend school, live with host families, and visit famous sights. Central to the program, however, is the utilization of the surrounding environment as a source for language learning and enrichment. To improve language proficiency and independence, students will spend much time exploring neighborhoods, conducting interviews, and doing things on their own: asking directions, taking public transport, buying food, and more.
Ultimately, Beijing - aside from being the center of the world - is a fantastic introduction to the wild and wonderful world of China for CAIS students.