Charlie Engelmann is the Shanghai study abroad program director for Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. He has been living in China for the past eight years and has three beautiful children. We asked Charlie what he tells the American students who come to Shanghai to study abroad about adjusting to a brand new and extremely different way of life in this special city.
1. There are some common misconceptions that people have about the U.S.
For example, it is often implied that certain ethnicities are more “American” than others. But of course the U.S. is a country of immigrants and, as such, its people are diverse. I often get defensive on this topic when I hear someone say that one of my friends doesn’t “look” American.
I also find myself addressing questions about guns in the U.S., perceptions of immorality, ideas about religion, and (lately) the rise in popularity of Donald Trump (well…but I guess some things can’t be explained away).
2. There is something about Shanghai that draws people into a close, tightknit community
I love being a ‘laowai.’ I enjoy the challenges of navigating a different culture, speaking a wholly different language, and living in a city that is increasingly international and global-minded. But ultimately, Shanghai feels like home because of the amazing people I have been able to befriend here, and I have thrived here because of them.
3. Embrace the discomfort
Distress in Shanghai (if properly kept in context) can bear the fruit of character growth, creativity, solid relationships, among many other great things.
4. The hardest thing about learning Chinese is that fact that Chinese think differently than Westerners
Even if you get the tones right, learn the rules of grammar, and memorize a ton of vocabulary, you will always find that sometimes you still don’t communicate it accurately.
5. College students that choose to study abroad are inspiring
This is the most fulfilling job I have ever had. I love working with college students (and living vicariously through their adventures). They remind me to hold strong to my ideals and to not compromise the core of who I am.
