This resonates with me just for the fact that they just completed the first subway in my city and there's a stop literally steps from my apartment gate. I take that 1 stop down and it leads me to an exit literally steps from the front door of my work. Life's rough man, I tell ya
As a young black american I just graduated from college i spent maybe 3 hours sending emails and resumes. Had 12 interviews lined up the next week and six job offers. Salary ranged from 12000 to 23000 teaching English. I do have years of sub teaching experience. I think i'm going to take an offer in xiamen 19000 yuan a month plus bonuses. It might be too early to say but its pretty easy to make it here. People should come here while it lasts. Good luck in your future endeavors btw.
there was a french old lady at my university, she worked there for a very long time, she was so respected and she even made textbooks for the students herself because she was not satisfied with the books in the market, she was once honored as top ten people who made a contribution by the city government, she went back because she got cancer she was like around 60 years old, such a graceful and kind lady
Austin, if you dont challenge yourself and do things that are out of your comfort zone, you will live the rest of your life thinking of what ifs. You got to do it, the bolder the better. Life is short man.
Paulius Zenevicius Don’t spread poisonous chicken broth please! I so envy the way Austin is living now! I’m from Ya’an, a smaller city near Chengdu but I challenged myself to live in Chengdu by myself for ten years since about 14, and then ChongQing, HK, now Manhattan New York. I can tell you so seriously that Austin is way smarter than you thought!!! I can get a green card whatever I want if I make effort here because I’m an artist who holds American diplomas from top bad ass schools, so what?! Only when I eat delicious food and sleep on a big solid bed after shower without much work to do tomorrow, I can finally remember why I should be alive!
IN THE END… We only regret the chances we didn’t take, the relationships we were afraid to have, and the decisions we waited too long to make. - Lewis Carroll
Well said! Austin's channel is now the only China related channel which evokes the fond memories I have from living in China. The sensationalist stuff is still fun to watch... but not all over the time, which seems to be direction a lot of China channels have gone, making this channel really important.
I think it definitely depends where you live. We are based in Tianjin and it so convenient but when we have travelled china there can be challenges like travel in other places around the worlds. But yeah we can get anything and everything delivered to our door, we have a 7/11 and supermarket right next door, a carrefour up the road and loads of restaurants too!
You are not alone, though what I am talking about here is in a slightly different context. Even some Chinese when they are young are scared of being too confortable living in Sichuan/Chengdu. I have some friends who came from other provinces to attend university and work in Chengdu, but for this reason they finally left for more competitive cities like Beijing.
History is a hugely important subject. As long as you teach it conscientiously and humanely, focussing on our shared humanity, holding people to account for their past misdeeds as well as their triumphs, I'd say its much more important than a lot of other "more useful" subjects at college.
Oh please! Universities in the US are indoctrination centers. Especially history/political science departments. After I got out of the military (Mandarin linguist) in 1994, I got my MA in Chinese in Hawaii. I was 42. I was disappointed to see that campuses were the same left wing, anti-US bastions I remember from the late 60's, early 70's. Now teaching new generations the same left wing bullshit they taught in the early 70s. Most thankfully grow out of it when they enter the real world. But hey, I don't want to show any bias here. :-)
Did you ever do that PhD or MA? I eventually did both after teaching English in Vietnam and the Middle East. I too did history. Love the subject but it does leave one in a tricky position afterwards. Having said that, I'm heading to China in August to teach at a university there but the main aim is to convert my thesis into a book for publication. Hope you did sort things out in the end.
I am basically you. Glasses, goatee and saddle bags included. I was in China for 8 years teaching and did my final 3 years teaching at a big university. My life was ridiculously comfortable, worked about 4 days a week, about 12 hours for the uni and did tons of "extra" jobs that gave me a very comfortable income for very little effort. I ate out at restaurants every day of the week, rode about on my motorcycle in the mountains and lazed away days just chilling out with my nearly 5 months of paid annual holiday! I returned to the U.K. Last summer and it's a real grind back in the real world man for more hours, less expendable income and less freedom but the potential of a better long term prospect. I am also contemplating what to do and have already started looking at MA TESOL courses in Thailand and China... should I buckle down and work hard now for a chance at a comfortable retirement or go back to China and pick up where I left off and just carry on living in comfort right now? :S
I’m retired (72) living in Changsha with my working Chinese wife. If I make a list of good vs bad in living here, the good list is much longer. It’s even easy to make the bad work for yourself. I love it here. Start with its much safer than the US and end with its much cheaper than the US.
I would definitely take that leap. I actually moved to China to get out of my comfort zone. I came here to be more productive, to push forward my creative projects and get out of my comfortable patterns. I believe that the best way to reach your full potential is by taking risks and trying new things and by learning everyday.
No problem. It's scary, but worth it... And even if it turns out to fail, it's never a complete failure because you learn more about yourself and what you really want and can do. If you don't move and stay comfortable, you might always wonder what if...
Enjoyed watching your video and honest presentation ( like I had enjoyed Erin's and Mandarin click). It's also very interesting to read the genuine level of discussions about millennials and their future prospecting on a global level. I had worked in Guangzhou for 7 months and thoroughly loved my time in China ; amazed with the fascinating life, culture history and the sheer number of expats as well as the African and Arab community in Guangzhou. Just a shame that they don't give working visas to those over 65; unless one works on a business visa. I'm thinking I might take a short course in the Wudang mountains for Tai Qi and meditation some time. Keep your videos coming, Austin Guidry - China's vast country and I'm sure the government is happy if anyone wants to innovate a project anywhere in its vastness and all along The Silk Road and OBOR. Best luck to you and family.
Have you checked out the University of Nottingham in Ningbo? Could be a good way for you to do post-graduate study in China and save some money along the way...
to foreigners:i welcome foreigners coming to china and work or live here ,but i really hope you are qualified and obey the law. i had four english foreign teachers from america and canada but i don't think they all deserve their high salary.
Oh, they were most likely qualified, if you were being taught in a school or training centre, but it's really not that hard to get qualified. I completed two TESL training courses, one was ridiculously easy, the other one was brutal as hell (CELTA). As far as deserving their high salary, actually, the teaching part isn't the sole reason foreigners get that high salary. The hardest thing for me was actually to leave friends and family to go to China. If it wasn't for the high pay, I probably would never have come to China. If you have ever lived overseas, you would understand
DanielJJ I’d rather say they were most likely not qualified. Many “teachers” get teaching positions based on their passport not their credentials.. in China I’m sure they don’t know the difference between a tefl and celta and a lot of foreign “teachers” get a 120-hour online tefl to get the job asap.
One man's comfort blanket is another man's ball and chain - I went back to school twice and I never regretted it, I want to go back to school again but this time to learn Chinese at a Chinese University - I started to learn Chinese a couple of years ago and to my great surprise I love studying it, I find it really interesting which is something I never thought I would have contemplated. I think in your case is you're still quite young, you're not thirty yet and you're right, you have achieved a lot of things in such a short time, but what you need to realise is that there is a difference between the concept of things you want to do and things you ought to do - or better still - think you ought to do. People get sidetracked into doing things they think they ought to do - we all know that person who left their happy place in the Far East and went back to the drudgery of the real world because mummy and daddy told them to stop fucking around and get a 'real job' back home in the west. If you want to go for the MA and PhD and that is your passion and that's what you want to do then you go for it. But if it isn't a passion and not a lifetime's dream, then what are you giving up? Not too many people have the luxury of enjoying their life, their life is a constant struggle to stay afloat. In the UK where I am from, 16 million people are 100 pounds away from being broke (after paying their bills...)that's fine if that's what you want, but I'll take the comfort of living in China every single time.
I've always thought the ride is a little harsh, but not much of a deal after a few trips. my mother in law struggles though. she gets motion sick really easy. i guess i'm lucky haha
Great video! Very insightful. Since you asked the question at the end of your video, my advice is don't waste your time and money going back to school.
One very big advice: Under no circumstances get a child - regardless of whether your wife is Chinese or not - if you are not fully ready for it. It will change your life. Just having a kid if your wife wants to have one is not reason enough.
You want some advice? I won't give you any. Because I'm sure you already know what to do. But I know one thing : you'll be successful no matter what you do! Always a pleasure watching your videos Austin, take care!
Not necessarily, some people are happy to be in a bubble and not to challenge themselves too abruptly but rather to ease into a transition very slowly and to savour the comfort zone and appreciate the ease, to rest the soul and practice insightfulness. Being a University teacher will improve your intelligence and it is a humble and noble job. Become a scholar over time and don't rush.
I took the leap! And it's worth it! I'm uncomfortable again in a different way and it's good. Having kids without wanting them is quite the sacrifice. I hope you change your mind before it happens. Haha it's a tough job to be a parent. I miss how comfortable china was, but it can be like the Lotus leaves in Odysseus. Time is gonna fly by without you seeing it. Change is good. It means you're growing. Peace and Hugs from a former Expat! -Wheelee
Great to hear you talking straight from your heart. This is so much more interesting than watching you eat strange foods and I'm looking forward to your podcasts and more introspection. Interesting stuff. You nailed why a lot of us stay in China. Loved the candor about having children.. lol. Comfort is boring. Only advice I have is don't go to school AND have a baby. One or the other. Good luck and keep 'em coming! This is good stuff.
1) There are many on-line school, so that you can keep your comfortable life while seeking a higher ed. 2) You have to keep your weight down or your life will be cut short as you are heading to 40, 50, ...
Austin Guidry thank you ! Is this Shenzhen ? Where do you get glasses ? How is medical care ? Prescription meds ? What kind of work do you do ? Will you retire there ? Buy a condo ? Noise ? Pollution ??? Favorite city
I live in Chengdu. The 2nd best hospital in China is in Chengdu, I teach at Sichuan University, rent not buy, pollution not great, noise normal. Favorite cities....Chengdu, Chongqing, Lanzhou, and a smattering of small towns. Least favorites: Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai
I went back to the U.S. for grad school after a decade of living overseas. If you get into a program with teaching or research assistantships, most of the costs are paid for by the university and you get a small salary. Having said that, I have just met some folks here in China who did their Masters degree here in China and it sounds like a good way to go. There is more opportunity to keep that comfy quality of life you are talking about in the video. Moving back to the U.S. for the 2 years of grad school was very expensive. It was not the school, it was the culture. The U.S. , most places anyway, are set up for people to live long term NOT to come in and out of. I am from the U.S. and lived there til I was 30...and it was still challenging. Be more than happy to chat with you about this if you want.
So honest heartfelt appreciation of what most China YTers NEVER seem to talk about. Can be a bit scary sometimes...but it is what we all feel sometimes. One of the best China videos ever...so honest!!
I know exactly what you mean. Been in China since 2011 myself. Every other year or so I throw a wrench in the works by taking six months to a year off for pure vacationing in SE Asia.
Thanks! Yeah, I can play Mahjong - was thinking about making a video about it, actually! I'm not super good or anything, but I know how it works and I play sometimes
I frequently check China AQI because my 2 year son is in Chengdu. ... . Chengdu air is always pretty bad in winter. . Beijing is worst but Chengdu 2nd worst after Beijing. :(
I plan to go China this summer after my second semester of chinese language studies have concluded. I plan to go on a tourist visa, rent an apartment and just live of my savings. How long would I be allowed to remain in China before having to renew my visa and how does the visa renewal process work? Can I just walk over into Hong Kong, turn around and go back and my visa is renewed?
Depends what country you're from. Not sure how long a tourist visa lasts for Swedes (just guessing based on your name). Americans and Canadians - 60 days. I have a Canadian friend who goes to Hong Kong every two months. He crosses over, has lunch, sees a movie, then comes back to mainland China. You could do the same
Although it might not apply to you, it's still interesting to talk about the fact that there are US students enrolling in computer science programs at Peking or Tsinghua Uni. I guess that's because the tuition for international students is low or even covered by the school? Meanwhile the quality of education is decent at those two universities. I was surprised when I acknowledged this fact.
Missing chengdu so muchh..it was best 6 year of my life in chengdu..nice video Austin!!! Keep doing it.. lov to see some place in chengdu..can you make one video about huaxi campus?
I don't agree that all foreigner English teachers will have jobs here 'forever'. After the best English students that have been taught by native English speakers enter the job market, they are going to be cheaper option than having a foreigner with a Chinese alongside to translate. Think about it - instead of paying 10-12k (foreign teacher) + 3-4k (local teacher), they can just pay one awesome Chinese teacher (with fluent English and Chinese) about 7-10k.
I agree with you - forever is a long time hahahaha I should have worded things a little more precisely. I do think things will be this way for a good amount of time, but definitely not forever. There'll always be a certain demand for native speakers, but after a while, the insanely high demand for native speakers that exists in the Chinese market right now will begin to decline. Only the best and most qualified teachers with special skills and knowledge will be able to teach here. That's the natural progression of things! Even now, it's not as easy to get in as it used to be, but it's still pretty easy
Oh, but with the new foreign ID card system and the 'ranking' system of foreigners that's coming into play next year, that will make things very interesting! I wonder how that will affect people coming and out and just the overall numbers of foreigners in China
Think about how many people have said I wish I did this or that and then they realize is too late. Just do whatever you want to at the moment and you can always change it as need be.
PS, a house, or an apartment, is required to get married. The total costs is astounding for most graduates who have to face immediately after get out of school. The income is really not satifactory.
I was just in Chengdu for a week - I loved it (except the smog). I had my kids really young first one at 21. My wife had been told she could never have kids so we didn't consider birth control. The doctors were wrong and I was not a happy camper. But I'll say this . . . Children do have a way of giving life a purpose. It wound up being one of the most significant things I have done. Now they are out on their own, I may wind up in China. Got to do it soon as I'm now 55 and the clock is ticking.
hi Austin.so you are more familiar with northern part of china while serpentza(winston) and laowhy86 are more familiar with southern part,especially guangdong(canton)?
tang yiming but chengdu is not northern part of china, just the west. Actually it seems c-milk did some video about Haerbin and other cities, good ones.
Maybe you could find a way to study in your own time rather than go back in to full time education. I'm currently studying for my BA with the Open University. They send you all the course materials and you have access to online tutor groups and study materials, then you submit all your assignments via your student page, your tutor marks them and provides feedback. I'm on my third and final year at the moment and it's been difficult, studying alone and managing my own deadlines without the support network of a regular university, but it has also been invaluable as I could not afford to give up work and go to a regular university. It's also a hell of a lot cheaper than a regular uni! On top of that, a degree from the Open University is internationally recognised and respected by employers on a par with other British universities. They also do post-grad courses too so it would be ideal for you. Just a suggestion, mate, but I think it would allow you to retain some of your comfort and still get ahead.
It all depends on your perspective in life. Many expats in China do not have a long term plan to stay in China. They are not migrants with family. So for them, as long as they can afford a rental apartment, some extra cash to go around China, access to great and cheap Chinese food, life is good and comfortable. But if their plan is to take root in China, the perspective totally changes and you will have to deal with long term career development, child care and future job potentials for your kids, and long term health environment. So unless you marry a local girl who is only interested in staying local AND highly capable with good family connections, life might be more challenging for you.
I have! I'm gonna save a bit of money in the next couple of months and get one (*cough cough* convince the wife that around 1000元 is okay to spend *cough cough*)
you can work in China forever? How does the visa work out? I'd definitely choose to challenge myself and get out of my comfort zone. You/we are still young, twenty-something is not the age to settle down.
I appreciate your honesty. My niece wants to teach in China , she has a BA in Business and math. She is black , what can she expect? Will it be a little tougher for her or a lot?
There is as much joy in unpredictability as there is in consistency. As you get older the latter seems to be sought after. When you get older... you stop trying so hard and appreciate what you have. When you are younger (as you are) you look for greener pastures, and when you are older you slow down to smell the flowers. A little cliche .. but I am older and do not care if my thoughts are original ...as long as it does the job.
Hi Austin, have you considered getting Chinese green card? You should. Once you got it, you still can explore academia opportunities either in China or in US. A Chinese green card would make your life much easier
If your passion lies in something history related. Probably you can be a history teacher or even a professor in one of the universities if you work on mandarin to a certain level. By the way, more and more jobs will be open to you as the language skill improves. Couldn't get bored in my chaotic country, there're always ways to entertain you and keep you busy.
Austin, "pinch a penny and bite a bullet" is normal when you are in your 20s. " Going through hassles and widening views " is normal in your 30s and 40s.. But when you are in your 50s, you have to set your self on firm " life philosophy" From China expat
Apply a university in China, then it will not be expensive. I had been living in Chengdu for 3 year, which are the most lazy but awesome years in my life so far. And I can totally feel your concern. You made me worried again. I live in CA now, a big city. And I seldom speak English, I feel comfortable to study and live here but I feel so worried because I can't keep ambitious anymore. Anyway, I have to go outside and I can't stay home all the time! THX for reminding!
Uncertainty is what makes us take challenges in life, Austin. You made the right choice by proceeding to grad school and enriching your knowledge even further. Just like you said, none of us know what will happen in future. So getting ready for it is how we ensure final victory.
I just subscribed. I can relate to this video. I lived in Beijing 2 years working in animation, but decided to leave. mainly because I always worried about my future too much and didn't want to start from zero back in Canada. If China was more secure. . or could accept me as a citizen with all the rights that brings I might have stayed longer. But having moved. . I do envy guys like you. Sometimes think it is just better to take advantage of the opportunities available in China right now and surf that wave. I don't have a university degree. . just a vocational college diploma, so I can't really legally work in CHina anyways. My wife is from Chengdu, my 2 year old son is living in Chengdu most of the year. . I have a big draw to just go to CHengdu and try to make a living there. .but I also love my home country of Canada and the easy access I have to clean air and the great outdoors and open internet and of course being close to family. Also maybe my son will want to study or live in Canada in the future and I can set up a "homebase" for him here. At the same time I'd see him way more if I was living in China. Everyone has to come to their own decision but you really do have to commit to being in one place. .. I dream of becoming a digital nomad so I could be in China half the year and Canada half the year. . but the internet situation in CHina makes that tricky.
If you move back to the states, you are gonna regret because all of a sudden you will lose that comfortable life. You will likely be living off a student loan; your wife might have to work to support you; if you decide to have kid, raising a kid in the states is very expensive; no travel, no fancy restaurants anymore...you will experience a withdrawn syndrome. Of course you can always move back to China with a higher degree. But will a master's degree bring you a better life(I highly doubt it)? is it worth it? It's a simple economic question.
Can you pursue a graduate degree at one of the US or British programs that exist in China? I know Univ. of Nottingham has a program there as do others. You could probably get a US loan or grant for them, if they are USDE certified. If you have a wife and good life there, I'd stay.
Knee how ma Austin, What is the immigration requirements? housing cost? Age restrictions to enter? health care? collage free? What if you loose your job and potentially become homeless?
It's true! If you're in the bigger cities, you'll have a lot easier of a time. Back when I lived in Gansu, I didn't have nearly the same kind access to some of the resources I do now
My 2c . Comfort is nice , it can be really nice but not significant. Fun is great but different to happiness. There is a time to sow and a time to reap , a time to toil and a time to rest. Neither are "the answer" . Giving/sacrificing is food for the soul but to be effective you need to rest and be comfortable at times/periods. Enjoy/rest when it is that period. We all have a purpose and not a single being's purpose is a self serving one. If you feel it's time to toil then do so. When its time to be comfortable and relaxed than revel in it. PS , a kid changes everything , in a good way and gives purpose.
Hi, Austin. I think the gap in Chinese English teaching is still there. And it will probably last for one or two decades. But there will be a time when the bubble or the labour supply reaches a peak. By that time, the salary will be certainly dropped.Of course, the job requirements will be definitely getting more strict. But anyway, good luck with your Chengdu life. And hope you can learn more stuffs, show more videos and start doing the job you really passionate about.
"God knows I don't what any children but I am married a Chinese women so whatever." Having children is whatever? Do you know what you are getting yourself into?
Hi Austin, I noticed that this video is dated Dec 2016. After nearly 4 years, what are your thoughts now, especially after the new cold war launched by Trump on China?
I disagree regarding the job: If you are a non native foreign teacher, salary won't be that high. And you only get 1 year contract. And you need to save a lot in case you get some trouble, get sick, retirement, kid... And you need to consider what will happen to you a few years from now: are you going to teach forever in China? No, where can you go after? Regarding university jobs, you are disposable, if your university/ the central gov. decide they don't want foreign ESL teachers anymore. About salary many non native only get paid 5000rmb/ month and 10 month per year... not that good.
Lea Yes skin color matters... if you are black it could be ok depending on your nationality and degree. Age also matters. I did a playlist: teach in china to explain for those who want to try China. I don't say it is bad to be here, but I don't think it is too confortable regarding income/ stable job/ long term prospect/ visa issues/ health issue/ issue with the authorities/ you need to try and find another way out...
You will know what to do when the time is right Austin. I think it is a good idea that you are learning Chinese. As far as going back to University, you could always go to a Chinese university and study history there. You are probably already doing this, but it is a good idea to stash away the cash in case you want to start some sort of business there. More doors will open if you can communicate in business Chinese, not just conversational level. All the best!
What u white guys want in China is only beautiful girls? most white guys can do nothing in China, except teaching english. in the future we need so many english teachers anymore, and then u can just go home.
when you are a good person you will attract good people . when you are fucked in the head you attract fucked in the head people . i was raised with values ,so i enjoy the privilege of associating with good people
You are living in a bubble and should remain aware of that.Things will change.Most importantly your life will change. I vote that you make as much as you can while you are young,because you are only young once.You are in the right place at the right time.Ask anyone who surfed the Japan bubble.
I never saw this vid before, until now and man, just in the right time to my situation. I am wondering the same things. Where I wanna go... for how long would I live this way...
Austin, obviously the problem living in China long term and teaching is that if you choose to go back to the USA you will have trouble finding work, your teaching experience is good if you want a job teaching Esl back home, in any other field it isn't really useful on a resume. So looking for work you will have a degree but not work experience. Maybe you can use your savings to start a small business in chengdu
Yep, that's right! That's a big reason I want to look into something different. I've got no interest in business, but I want to do something different. This ESL thing is fine for the moment, but that's not what I want to do with my life, and now's the time I'm thinking about what's next. I will always be a teacher, I think, but it's time to move on from ESL, I hope :)
It's balancing ambition and comfort. As someone about to start a PhD it's very exciting getting ready for university life again after working in industry for a few years, but my savings and investments have to go on hold for a few years. However the time spent over the next few years should hopefully be an investment for the future! I'm hoping to move to China in the future and either teach or work in my area of expertise and your channel has been very inspirational for me! Best of luck planning for the future!
it's not accurate find a job for 8000 to 15000 yuan (per month). A lot of people, as Chinese say "laobaixing"(ordinary people), make less than 5000 a month. A graduate student major in computer science may get that much. This is my personal experience in Xi'an, a nouthwestern inland city. More importantly, the income hardly match the working hrs. And, I notice that you are talking all about China. Here is a question I'm longing to ask: Do you feel you are fitting in? I'm thinking about taking a job oversea, this question is holding me back.
For an expat, 8000-15000 IS normal, but yes, for a local Chinese, you're right, 5000 or less is normal. Yes, I think I'm fitting in well here. I've married a local, I speak the language, and I'm pretty happy and comfortable! The thing I'm worried about is being stuck here and not being able to do anything else later should things change, you know? It's a big question
If you marry a Chinese it is your duty. If he doesn't want to take care of the kid his Chinese inlaws will happily take care of the baby. Won't be an unwanted child. . don't worry.
Prior getting married with my Chinese wife I made very clear that I do not want to have a kid. She agreed although it cause some tension later on in marriage. But we are still together... maybe because she is an well educated Beijing girl... sometime aggressive but with a truly loving heart :-) Never, ever have a kid if you don't want. Everything else is irresponsible and can destroy your life.
fantastico raffinesso I married a Chinese girl, wasn't totally sold on the idea of having kids but did it. Best thing I ever did. Not easy but brings me more happiness than anything else ever could.
Hi Austin,I like your videos and I can tell you really understand China society pretty well. What I would encourage you to do is to take some Chinese classes just to get your feet wet and then leap further into Asian studies to round it out some. You are right. America has nothing to offer and thus I feel the same way.Thanks,Scott
Thanks, Scott! I've got my HSK 5 Certificate (6 is the highest that's offered), so that's a nice thing to have, and I've been working through a compilation of novellas/short stories in Chinese lately! Just finished a 100+ page one, and I've got a few more to go :D
Sounds similar to my life in Japan. I lived in Japan for 24 years total since I was 19. Just finally moved back to the U.S. I miss my ex-pat life there a bit, but somewhat regret not having lived in other places as well. I would have loved to have tried living in China for a bit. Japan was super comfortable once set up so I was too comfortable to leave as well. There's no right answer. I decided to come back to the U.S. but have several friends intent on being "lifers" in Japan. I'm sure the same goes for China. Whatever works for you. My only advice would be to maintain a bit of your life in the U.S. Keep in touch with friends and family, keep a bank account and credit card, keep filing your tax returns, etc. in case some day you want to come back.
This resonates with me just for the fact that they just completed the first subway in my city and there's a stop literally steps from my apartment gate. I take that 1 stop down and it leads me to an exit literally steps from the front door of my work. Life's rough man, I tell ya
As a young black american I just graduated from college i spent maybe 3 hours sending emails and resumes. Had 12 interviews lined up the next week and six job offers. Salary ranged from 12000 to 23000 teaching English. I do have years of sub teaching experience. I think i'm going to take an offer in xiamen 19000 yuan a month plus bonuses. It might be too early to say but its pretty easy to make it here. People should come here while it lasts. Good luck in your future endeavors btw.
there was a french old lady at my university, she worked there for a very long time, she was so respected and she even made textbooks for the students herself because she was not satisfied with the books in the market, she was once honored as top ten people who made a contribution by the city government, she went back because she got cancer she was like around 60 years old, such a graceful and kind lady
Easily the best channel about China, great video as usual,living here for the past 10 years i totally understand everything you say
WOW, high complement!!! Thanks so much - you just made my night :D
Austin, if you dont challenge yourself and do things that are out of your comfort zone, you will live the rest of your life thinking of what ifs. You got to do it, the bolder the better. Life is short man.
well said!!
Paulius Zenevicius Don’t spread poisonous chicken broth please! I so envy the way Austin is living now! I’m from Ya’an, a smaller city near Chengdu but I challenged myself to live in Chengdu by myself for ten years since about 14, and then ChongQing, HK, now Manhattan New York. I can tell you so seriously that Austin is way smarter than you thought!!! I can get a green card whatever I want if I make effort here because I’m an artist who holds American diplomas from top bad ass schools, so what?! Only when I eat delicious food and sleep on a big solid bed after shower without much work to do tomorrow, I can finally remember why I should be alive!
Life feels even shorter when you are constantly chasing something new...
IN THE END… We only regret the chances we didn’t take, the relationships we were afraid to have, and the decisions we waited too long to make.
- Lewis Carroll
Awesome, a breath of fresh air to hear a positive and accurate description of life here... much agreed! Well done, Sir.
Thanks a lot!
Well said! Austin's channel is now the only China related channel which evokes the fond memories I have from living in China. The sensationalist stuff is still fun to watch... but not all over the time, which seems to be direction a lot of China channels have gone, making this channel really important.
I think it definitely depends where you live. We are based in Tianjin and it so convenient but when we have travelled china there can be challenges like travel in other places around the worlds. But yeah we can get anything and everything delivered to our door, we have a 7/11 and supermarket right next door, a carrefour up the road and loads of restaurants too!
You are not alone, though what I am talking about here is in a slightly different context. Even some Chinese when they are young are scared of being too confortable living in Sichuan/Chengdu. I have some friends who came from other provinces to attend university and work in Chengdu, but for this reason they finally left for more competitive cities like Beijing.
History is a hugely important subject. As long as you teach it conscientiously and humanely, focussing on our shared humanity, holding people to account for their past misdeeds as well as their triumphs, I'd say its much more important than a lot of other "more useful" subjects at college.
I second this. I'd give a history degree more value than a business degree any day.
Oh please! Universities in the US are indoctrination centers. Especially history/political science departments. After I got out of the military (Mandarin linguist) in 1994, I got my MA in Chinese in Hawaii. I was 42. I was disappointed to see that campuses were the same left wing, anti-US bastions I remember from the late 60's, early 70's. Now teaching new generations the same left wing bullshit they taught in the early 70s. Most thankfully grow out of it when they enter the real world. But hey, I don't want to show any bias here. :-)
so true
These are still my favorite videos -- just you and your phone -- no fancy video production. :) Lots of fun info to mull over.
Did you ever do that PhD or MA? I eventually did both after teaching English in Vietnam and the Middle East. I too did history. Love the subject but it does leave one in a tricky position afterwards. Having said that, I'm heading to China in August to teach at a university there but the main aim is to convert my thesis into a book for publication. Hope you did sort things out in the end.
I am basically you. Glasses, goatee and saddle bags included. I was in China for 8 years teaching and did my final 3 years teaching at a big university. My life was ridiculously comfortable, worked about 4 days a week, about 12 hours for the uni and did tons of "extra" jobs that gave me a very comfortable income for very little effort. I ate out at restaurants every day of the week, rode about on my motorcycle in the mountains and lazed away days just chilling out with my nearly 5 months of paid annual holiday! I returned to the U.K. Last summer and it's a real grind back in the real world man for more hours, less expendable income and less freedom but the potential of a better long term prospect. I am also contemplating what to do and have already started looking at MA TESOL courses in Thailand and China... should I buckle down and work hard now for a chance at a comfortable retirement or go back to China and pick up where I left off and just carry on living in comfort right now? :S
Chivas6 p
@@MILITAWATCH regret what?
I’m retired (72) living in Changsha with my working Chinese wife. If I make a list of good vs bad in living here, the good list is much longer. It’s even easy to make the bad work for yourself. I love it here. Start with its much safer than the US and end with its much cheaper than the US.
I would definitely take that leap. I actually moved to China to get out of my comfort zone. I came here to be more productive, to push forward my creative projects and get out of my comfortable patterns.
I believe that the best way to reach your full potential is by taking risks and trying new things and by learning everyday.
Thanks a lot, Globik!
No problem. It's scary, but worth it... And even if it turns out to fail, it's never a complete failure because you learn more about yourself and what you really want and can do. If you don't move and stay comfortable, you might always wonder what if...
I have to say as well, I really enjoy your channel, as an expat in China, you are by far my favourite China vlogger. Keep up the good work.
Enjoyed watching your video and honest presentation ( like I had enjoyed Erin's and Mandarin click). It's also very interesting to read the genuine level of discussions about millennials and their future prospecting on a global level. I had worked in Guangzhou for 7 months and thoroughly loved my time in China ; amazed with the fascinating life, culture history and the sheer number of expats as well as the African and Arab community in Guangzhou. Just a shame that they don't give working visas to those over 65; unless one works on a business visa. I'm thinking I might take a short course in the Wudang mountains for Tai Qi and meditation some time. Keep your videos coming, Austin Guidry - China's vast country and I'm sure the government is happy if anyone wants to innovate a project anywhere in its vastness and all along The Silk Road and OBOR. Best luck to you and family.
Have you checked out the University of Nottingham in Ningbo? Could be a good way for you to do post-graduate study in China and save some money along the way...
What type of cost is there to live in Ningbo after paying tuition?
For myself, I have chosen to take challenges and see how far I can go, but may settle down in comfort zone later when I am ready.
to foreigners:i welcome foreigners coming to china and work or live here ,but i really hope you are qualified and obey the law. i had four english foreign teachers from america and canada but i don't think they all deserve their high salary.
Oh, they were most likely qualified, if you were being taught in a school or training centre, but it's really not that hard to get qualified. I completed two TESL training courses, one was ridiculously easy, the other one was brutal as hell (CELTA). As far as deserving their high salary, actually, the teaching part isn't the sole reason foreigners get that high salary. The hardest thing for me was actually to leave friends and family to go to China. If it wasn't for the high pay, I probably would never have come to China. If you have ever lived overseas, you would understand
DanielJJ I’d rather say they were most likely not qualified. Many “teachers” get teaching positions based on their passport not their credentials.. in China I’m sure they don’t know the difference between a tefl and celta and a lot of foreign “teachers” get a 120-hour online tefl to get the job asap.
don’t deserved? why do you pay them high salary?
The authorities should screen them properly because some may not be qualified and go to China to cheat for a living
I found I was getting too comfortable in South Korea so left for a new job in China.
One man's comfort blanket is another man's ball and chain - I went back to school twice and I never regretted it, I want to go back to school again but this time to learn Chinese at a Chinese University - I started to learn Chinese a couple of years ago and to my great surprise I love studying it, I find it really interesting which is something I never thought I would have contemplated.
I think in your case is you're still quite young, you're not thirty yet and you're right, you have achieved a lot of things in such a short time, but what you need to realise is that there is a difference between the concept of things you want to do and things you ought to do - or better still - think you ought to do. People get sidetracked into doing things they think they ought to do - we all know that person who left their happy place in the Far East and went back to the drudgery of the real world because mummy and daddy told them to stop fucking around and get a 'real job' back home in the west.
If you want to go for the MA and PhD and that is your passion and that's what you want to do then you go for it. But if it isn't a passion and not a lifetime's dream, then what are you giving up? Not too many people have the luxury of enjoying their life, their life is a constant struggle to stay afloat. In the UK where I am from, 16 million people are 100 pounds away from being broke (after paying their bills...)that's fine if that's what you want, but I'll take the comfort of living in China every single time.
How are you liking the bus ? I hate how it seems like all China busses dont' have shocks. You feel every bump and its like an amusement park ride.
Aaron Sawich Some people will get car sick if the riding is too soft.
Meh, I don't really notice it anymore - I'm all right with it
I've always thought the ride is a little harsh, but not much of a deal after a few trips. my mother in law struggles though. she gets motion sick really easy. i guess i'm lucky haha
Great video! Very insightful. Since you asked the question at the end of your video, my advice is don't waste your time and money going back to school.
One very big advice: Under no circumstances get a child - regardless of whether your wife is Chinese or not - if you are not fully ready for it. It will change your life. Just having a kid if your wife wants to have one is not reason enough.
You want some advice? I won't give you any. Because I'm sure you already know what to do. But I know one thing : you'll be successful no matter what you do! Always a pleasure watching your videos Austin, take care!
Not necessarily, some people are happy to be in a bubble and not to
challenge themselves too abruptly but rather to ease into a transition very slowly and
to savour the comfort zone and appreciate the ease, to rest the soul and practice insightfulness.
Being a University teacher will improve your intelligence and it is a humble and noble job. Become a
scholar over time and don't rush.
School is very reasonable in China, $4000 per year tuition. $100 per month student dorm. A lot of degrees are taught in English.
Hey, that's a Singapore Merlion at 0:40 minutes! I'm also a frequent traveler to China and yes, it is really comfortable.
you are not getting fatter, very encouraging!! you are in shape...
I took the leap! And it's worth it! I'm uncomfortable again in a different way and it's good. Having kids without wanting them is quite the sacrifice. I hope you change your mind before it happens. Haha it's a tough job to be a parent. I miss how comfortable china was, but it can be like the Lotus leaves in Odysseus. Time is gonna fly by without you seeing it. Change is good. It means you're growing.
Peace and Hugs from a former Expat! -Wheelee
Wheelee's Travels
quitter
You can pursue a PhD from one of the Chinese universities. Tuition is much cheaper if any and you can still do teaching to support yourself.
Great to hear you talking straight from your heart. This is so much more interesting than watching you eat strange foods and I'm looking forward to your podcasts and more introspection. Interesting stuff. You nailed why a lot of us stay in China. Loved the candor about having children.. lol. Comfort is boring. Only advice I have is don't go to school AND have a baby. One or the other. Good luck and keep 'em coming! This is good stuff.
1) There are many on-line school, so that you can keep your comfortable life while seeking a higher ed.
2) You have to keep your weight down or your life will be cut short as you are heading to 40, 50, ...
Austin, I worked 8 years in China and loved it. One subject maybe you could cover is taxes, social security, retirement and medical
Austin Guidry thank you ! Is this Shenzhen ? Where do you get glasses ? How is medical care ? Prescription meds ? What kind of work do you do ? Will you retire there ? Buy a condo ? Noise ? Pollution ??? Favorite city
I live in Chengdu. The 2nd best hospital in China is in Chengdu, I teach at Sichuan University, rent not buy, pollution not great, noise normal. Favorite cities....Chengdu, Chongqing, Lanzhou, and a smattering of small towns. Least favorites: Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai
:)
I went back to the U.S. for grad school after a decade of living overseas. If you get into a program with teaching or research assistantships, most of the costs are paid for by the university and you get a small salary. Having said that, I have just met some folks here in China who did their Masters degree here in China and it sounds like a good way to go. There is more opportunity to keep that comfy quality of life you are talking about in the video. Moving back to the U.S. for the 2 years of grad school was very expensive. It was not the school, it was the culture. The U.S. , most places anyway, are set up for people to live long term NOT to come in and out of. I am from the U.S. and lived there til I was 30...and it was still challenging. Be more than happy to chat with you about this if you want.
So honest heartfelt appreciation of what most China YTers NEVER seem to talk about. Can be a bit scary sometimes...but it is what we all feel sometimes. One of the best China videos ever...so honest!!
I know exactly what you mean. Been in China since 2011 myself. Every other year or so I throw a wrench in the works by taking six months to a year off for pure vacationing in SE Asia.
Thanks Austin, its all very good info for people wanting to go to China.
Nice video Austin! Can you play Mahjong? just wondering
Thanks! Yeah, I can play Mahjong - was thinking about making a video about it, actually! I'm not super good or anything, but I know how it works and I play sometimes
I really like your monologue , very clear explanation of worries. I got the same worries, but I am not married
Oh my hometown, I like it very much as well. It's comfortable living there. However I heard that the air quality in Chengdu was bad recently.
I frequently check China AQI because my 2 year son is in Chengdu. ... . Chengdu air is always pretty bad in winter. . Beijing is worst but Chengdu 2nd worst after Beijing. :(
I plan to go China this summer after my second semester of chinese language studies have concluded. I plan to go on a tourist visa, rent an apartment and just live of my savings. How long would I be allowed to remain in China before having to renew my visa and how does the visa renewal process work? Can I just walk over into Hong Kong, turn around and go back and my visa is renewed?
Depends what country you're from. Not sure how long a tourist visa lasts for Swedes (just guessing based on your name). Americans and Canadians - 60 days. I have a Canadian friend who goes to Hong Kong every two months. He crosses over, has lunch, sees a movie, then comes back to mainland China. You could do the same
So crossing over to Hong Kong and getting a stamp in my passport would renew my tourist visa?
Although it might not apply to you, it's still interesting to talk about the fact that there are US students enrolling in computer science programs at Peking or Tsinghua Uni. I guess that's because the tuition for international students is low or even covered by the school? Meanwhile the quality of education is decent at those two universities. I was surprised when I acknowledged this fact.
Yes, I was thinking about those two schools as well - I have started looking into what programs they offer!
Missing chengdu so muchh..it was best 6 year of my life in chengdu..nice video Austin!!! Keep doing it.. lov to see some place in chengdu..can you make one video about huaxi campus?
Yes you're right, i live in shanghai and it's amazing but as a non native English speaker it's hard to find a job
SICHUAN AND CHENDU are famous for comfortable and slow pace life style even in China. Other cities are not always tt comfortable through.
Everybody says that. . but Chengdu still has crazy traffic and is a HUGE city. . didn't feel like a slow pace of life at all to me.
I don't agree that all foreigner English teachers will have jobs here 'forever'. After the best English students that have been taught by native English speakers enter the job market, they are going to be cheaper option than having a foreigner with a Chinese alongside to translate. Think about it - instead of paying 10-12k (foreign teacher) + 3-4k (local teacher), they can just pay one awesome Chinese teacher (with fluent English and Chinese) about 7-10k.
I agree with you - forever is a long time hahahaha I should have worded things a little more precisely. I do think things will be this way for a good amount of time, but definitely not forever. There'll always be a certain demand for native speakers, but after a while, the insanely high demand for native speakers that exists in the Chinese market right now will begin to decline. Only the best and most qualified teachers with special skills and knowledge will be able to teach here. That's the natural progression of things! Even now, it's not as easy to get in as it used to be, but it's still pretty easy
Oh, but with the new foreign ID card system and the 'ranking' system of foreigners that's coming into play next year, that will make things very interesting! I wonder how that will affect people coming and out and just the overall numbers of foreigners in China
Great video man!
Think about how many people have said I wish I did this or that and then they realize is too late. Just do whatever you want to at the moment and you can always change it as need be.
True story.
PS, a house, or an apartment, is required to get married. The total costs is astounding for most graduates who have to face immediately after get out of school. The income is really not satifactory.
It's not required for the family I'm marrying into. That's not an issue. I rent, and it's cool. :D
I was just in Chengdu for a week - I loved it (except the smog).
I had my kids really young first one at 21. My wife had been told she could never have kids so we didn't consider birth control. The doctors were wrong and I was not a happy camper. But I'll say this . . . Children do have a way of giving life a purpose. It wound up being one of the most significant things I have done. Now they are out on their own, I may wind up in China. Got to do it soon as I'm now 55 and the clock is ticking.
Thanks for sharing your experience - Good luck, Rhys!
No protection???
Why not stay where you are and work your way up the ladder? Or start your own English school?
hi Austin.so you are more familiar with northern part of china while serpentza(winston) and laowhy86 are more familiar with southern part,especially guangdong(canton)?
and i believe that you have a more positive attitude toward china than winston and laowhy86, and i am thinking the reasons
tang yiming but chengdu is not northern part of china, just the west. Actually it seems c-milk did some video about Haerbin and other cities, good ones.
Maybe you could find a way to study in your own time rather than go back in to full time education. I'm currently studying for my BA with the Open University. They send you all the course materials and you have access to online tutor groups and study materials, then you submit all your assignments via your student page, your tutor marks them and provides feedback. I'm on my third and final year at the moment and it's been difficult, studying alone and managing my own deadlines without the support network of a regular university, but it has also been invaluable as I could not afford to give up work and go to a regular university. It's also a hell of a lot cheaper than a regular uni! On top of that, a degree from the Open University is internationally recognised and respected by employers on a par with other British universities. They also do post-grad courses too so it would be ideal for you. Just a suggestion, mate, but I think it would allow you to retain some of your comfort and still get ahead.
Nice! That's a hell of a suggestion!!! I'll look into those types of programs :)
It all depends on your perspective in life. Many expats in China do not have a long term plan to stay in China. They are not migrants with family. So for them, as long as they can afford a rental apartment, some extra cash to go around China, access to great and cheap Chinese food, life is good and comfortable. But if their plan is to take root in China, the perspective totally changes and you will have to deal with long term career development, child care and future job potentials for your kids, and long term health environment. So unless you marry a local girl who is only interested in staying local AND highly capable with good family connections, life might be more challenging for you.
Austin, have you considered a gimbal for your camera? I almost get dizzy as you walk along.
I have! I'm gonna save a bit of money in the next couple of months and get one (*cough cough* convince the wife that around 1000元 is okay to spend *cough cough*)
you can work in China forever? How does the visa work out? I'd definitely choose to challenge myself and get out of my comfort zone. You/we are still young, twenty-something is not the age to settle down.
Steven Xu you sucks
Can you just ride off with the bike? I hear people will break the GPS and then throw them in big piles when they're done.
Well, I guess you could.....but I have never tried haha
I appreciate your honesty. My niece wants to teach in China , she has a BA in Business and math. She is black , what can she expect? Will it be a little tougher for her or a lot?
very good video, very interesting !!
thank you for all those informations !
you're the greatest UA-camrs talking about China !
🙏🙏🙏🙏 thank you
There is as much joy in unpredictability as there is in consistency. As you get older the latter seems to be sought after. When you get older... you stop trying so hard and appreciate what you have. When you are younger (as you are) you look for greener pastures, and when you are older you slow down to smell the flowers. A little cliche .. but I am older and do not care if my thoughts are original ...as long as it does the job.
Hi Austin, have you considered getting Chinese green card? You should. Once you got it, you still can explore academia opportunities either in China or in US. A Chinese green card would make your life much easier
If your passion lies in something history related. Probably you can be a history teacher or even a professor in one of the universities if you work on mandarin to a certain level. By the way, more and more jobs will be open to you as the language skill improves. Couldn't get bored in my chaotic country, there're always ways to entertain you and keep you busy.
Austin,
"pinch a penny and bite a bullet" is normal when you are in your 20s.
" Going through hassles and widening views " is normal in your 30s and 40s..
But when you are in your 50s, you have to set your self on firm " life philosophy"
From China expat
Apply a university in China, then it will not be expensive. I had been living in Chengdu for 3 year, which are the most lazy but awesome years in my life so far. And I can totally feel your concern. You made me worried again. I live in CA now, a big city. And I seldom speak English, I feel comfortable to study and live here but I feel so worried because I can't keep ambitious anymore. Anyway, I have to go outside and I can't stay home all the time! THX for reminding!
Sorry, it's "a big city of CA"
李雪同学快过年了赶紧回国(*^__^*)
I miss China :( but on the bright side I live in Japan now so I COULD make a trip to China.
Uncertainty is what makes us take challenges in life, Austin. You made the right choice by proceeding to grad school and enriching your knowledge even further. Just like you said, none of us know what will happen in future. So getting ready for it is how we ensure final victory.
I just subscribed. I can relate to this video. I lived in Beijing 2 years working in animation, but decided to leave. mainly because I always worried about my future too much and didn't want to start from zero back in Canada. If China was more secure. . or could accept me as a citizen with all the rights that brings I might have stayed longer. But having moved. . I do envy guys like you. Sometimes think it is just better to take advantage of the opportunities available in China right now and surf that wave. I don't have a university degree. . just a vocational college diploma, so I can't really legally work in CHina anyways.
My wife is from Chengdu, my 2 year old son is living in Chengdu most of the year. . I have a big draw to just go to CHengdu and try to make a living there. .but I also love my home country of Canada and the easy access I have to clean air and the great outdoors and open internet and of course being close to family. Also maybe my son will want to study or live in Canada in the future and I can set up a "homebase" for him here. At the same time I'd see him way more if I was living in China. Everyone has to come to their own decision but you really do have to commit to being in one place. .. I dream of becoming a digital nomad so I could be in China half the year and Canada half the year. . but the internet situation in CHina makes that tricky.
Thanks for sharing, man - welcome to the family!
If you move back to the states, you are gonna regret because all of a sudden you will lose that comfortable life. You will likely be living off a student loan; your wife might have to work to support you; if you decide to have kid, raising a kid in the states is very expensive; no travel, no fancy restaurants anymore...you will experience a withdrawn syndrome. Of course you can always move back to China with a higher degree. But will a master's degree bring you a better life(I highly doubt it)? is it worth it? It's a simple economic question.
is it hard to get a teaching job with a BS in Education if you are 62 years old? I know the work VISA would be a class B due to age
I'm not sure.....I don't think I've ever met a teacher over 60 here. All you can do is try! A degree in education is definitely helpful!
xie xie
Can you pursue a graduate degree at one of the US or British programs that exist in China? I know Univ. of Nottingham has a program there as do others. You could probably get a US loan or grant for them, if they are USDE certified. If you have a wife and good life there, I'd stay.
It's not big deal. I have taken it for granted both in China and hong kong.
Knee how ma Austin, What is the immigration requirements? housing cost? Age restrictions to enter? health care? collage free? What if you loose your job and potentially become homeless?
Chengdu is a city without too much stress,no quick paces I suppose:P,anyways want to know how foreigners contact a school to teach thereo_o
Great communicator! Enjoyed your video. -j
thanks a lot, Jason!
you're just in the right location in china...a lot of places in china don't have that access.
It's true! If you're in the bigger cities, you'll have a lot easier of a time. Back when I lived in Gansu, I didn't have nearly the same kind access to some of the resources I do now
We have been to China 10 times. I really want to move to China, the only problem is all my wife's family is in the USA . . .
History is an important subject. It should be taught at least until the end of secondary level.
My 2c .
Comfort is nice , it can be really nice but not significant.
Fun is great but different to happiness.
There is a time to sow and a time to reap , a time to toil and a time to rest.
Neither are "the answer" .
Giving/sacrificing is food for the soul but to be effective you need to rest and be comfortable at times/periods.
Enjoy/rest when it is that period.
We all have a purpose and not a single being's purpose is a self serving one.
If you feel it's time to toil then do so.
When its time to be comfortable and relaxed than revel in it.
PS , a kid changes everything , in a good way and gives purpose.
Hi, Austin.
I think the gap in Chinese English teaching is still there. And it will probably last for one or two decades. But there will be a time when the bubble or the labour supply reaches a peak. By that time, the salary will be certainly dropped.Of course, the job requirements will be definitely getting more strict.
But anyway, good luck with your Chengdu life. And hope you can learn more stuffs, show more videos and start doing the job you really passionate about.
"God knows I don't what any children but I am married a Chinese women so whatever."
Having children is whatever? Do you know what you are getting yourself into?
Yeah, picture his kid listening to that bit of video in ten year's time.
Steven Gomez This dude has no respect for himself if hes willing to just flop and let his wife dictate HUGE life decisions for him. Like wtf.
Yeah. So much freedom he will be sacrificing with children is not a whatever.
Hi Austin, I noticed that this video is dated Dec 2016. After nearly 4 years, what are your thoughts now, especially after the new cold war launched by Trump on China?
I disagree regarding the job:
If you are a non native foreign teacher, salary won't be that high.
And you only get 1 year contract.
And you need to save a lot in case you get some trouble, get sick, retirement, kid...
And you need to consider what will happen to you a few years from now: are you going to teach forever in China? No, where can you go after?
Regarding university jobs, you are disposable, if your university/ the central gov. decide they don't want foreign ESL teachers anymore.
About salary many non native only get paid 5000rmb/ month and 10 month per year... not that good.
and as long as you are white?
Lea Yes skin color matters... if you are black it could be ok depending on your nationality and degree.
Age also matters.
I did a playlist: teach in china to explain for those who want to try China.
I don't say it is bad to be here, but I don't think it is too confortable regarding income/ stable job/ long term prospect/ visa issues/ health issue/ issue with the authorities/ you need to try and find another way out...
You will know what to do when the time is right Austin. I think it is a good idea that you are learning Chinese. As far as going back to University, you could always go to a Chinese university and study history there. You are probably already doing this, but it is a good idea to stash away the cash in case you want to start some sort of business there. More doors will open if you can communicate in business Chinese, not just conversational level. All the best!
China Non-Stop 我们有9-13年免费教育（自己买书）。医疗保险（看病报销%90）。公积金（买房）。。。所以不必担心什么。
Where do people make that little? No one I know makes such little money.
the people ,the food, the life style,and of coarse the beautiful girls ,heaven on earth
Redkelly Re easily the best comment.
What u white guys want in China is only beautiful girls?
most white guys can do nothing in China, except teaching english. in the future we need so many english teachers anymore, and then u can just go home.
i do not need to teach english or work period , i am retired , i am here to enjoy life , and i do enjoy
ok, maybe i treat foreigners with prejudice. just ignore me.
when you are a good person you will attract good people . when you are fucked in the head you attract fucked in the head people . i was raised with values ,so i enjoy the privilege of associating with good people
Chengdu is a "lazy" city. Try to go to some other city, like GuangZhou or HongKong.
Yeah, it is hahahaha I've become really lazy since moving here
You are living in a bubble and should remain aware of that.Things will change.Most importantly your life will change. I vote that you make as much as you can while you are young,because you are only young once.You are in the right place at the right time.Ask anyone who surfed the Japan bubble.
广州2逼太多发展也落后9亿农民工眼中的一线城市吧了
我喜欢海岛气候的地区。宁波 青岛 大连 威海 三亚
Airline pilots in China make 3 times more than an American pilot
Good luck and I hope you make the right decision.
The bus system in China is a lot better than USA, no doubt. Too comfortable? I suppose it is possible.
Snarky White Guy absolutely, and also probably the subway. And now the high speed train systems...
I hope so considering the traffic in any of their big cities is far worse,
I never saw this vid before, until now and man, just in the right time to my situation. I am
wondering the same things. Where I wanna go... for how long would I live this way...
Austin, obviously the problem living in China long term and teaching is that if you choose to go back to the USA you will have trouble finding work, your teaching experience is good if you want a job teaching Esl back home, in any other field it isn't really useful on a resume. So looking for work you will have a degree but not work experience. Maybe you can use your savings to start a small business in chengdu
Yep, that's right! That's a big reason I want to look into something different. I've got no interest in business, but I want to do something different. This ESL thing is fine for the moment, but that's not what I want to do with my life, and now's the time I'm thinking about what's next. I will always be a teacher, I think, but it's time to move on from ESL, I hope :)
It's balancing ambition and comfort. As someone about to start a PhD it's very exciting getting ready for university life again after working in industry for a few years, but my savings and investments have to go on hold for a few years. However the time spent over the next few years should hopefully be an investment for the future! I'm hoping to move to China in the future and either teach or work in my area of expertise and your channel has been very inspirational for me! Best of luck planning for the future!
You are comfortable. Find more risky things to do that add excitement to your life.
Finally back! I miss your videos!! Just wanna ask, will you do your "eat all of the things" series again?
it's not accurate find a job for 8000 to 15000 yuan (per month). A lot of people, as Chinese say "laobaixing"(ordinary people), make less than 5000 a month. A graduate student major in computer science may get that much. This is my personal experience in Xi'an, a nouthwestern inland city. More importantly, the income hardly match the working hrs.
And, I notice that you are talking all about China. Here is a question I'm longing to ask: Do you feel you are fitting in? I'm thinking about taking a job oversea, this question is holding me back.
For an expat, 8000-15000 IS normal, but yes, for a local Chinese, you're right, 5000 or less is normal. Yes, I think I'm fitting in well here. I've married a local, I speak the language, and I'm pretty happy and comfortable! The thing I'm worried about is being stuck here and not being able to do anything else later should things change, you know? It's a big question
If you don't want a baby, please do not have one! I know it's probably expected but my God man, don't make one if you don't want one.
If you marry a Chinese it is your duty. If he doesn't want to take care of the kid his Chinese inlaws will happily take care of the baby. Won't be an unwanted child. . don't worry.
That's awful. I think kids want a mom and a dad.
Prior getting married with my Chinese wife I made very clear that I do not want to have a kid. She agreed although it cause some tension later on in marriage. But we are still together... maybe because she is an well educated Beijing girl... sometime aggressive but with a truly loving heart :-)
Never, ever have a kid if you don't want. Everything else is irresponsible and can destroy your life.
fantastico raffinesso I married a Chinese girl, wasn't totally sold on the idea of having kids but did it. Best thing I ever did. Not easy but brings me more happiness than anything else ever could.
Hi Austin,I like your videos and I can tell you really understand China society pretty well. What I would encourage you to do is to take some Chinese classes just to get your feet wet and then leap further into Asian studies to round it out some. You are right. America has nothing to offer and thus I feel the same way.Thanks,Scott
Thanks, Scott! I've got my HSK 5 Certificate (6 is the highest that's offered), so that's a nice thing to have, and I've been working through a compilation of novellas/short stories in Chinese lately! Just finished a 100+ page one, and I've got a few more to go :D
Hey Austin! I understand you met my friend Jason Hornsby! :)
Sounds similar to my life in Japan. I lived in Japan for 24 years total since I was 19. Just finally moved back to the U.S. I miss my ex-pat life there a bit, but somewhat regret not having lived in other places as well. I would have loved to have tried living in China for a bit. Japan was super comfortable once set up so I was too comfortable to leave as well. There's no right answer. I decided to come back to the U.S. but have several friends intent on being "lifers" in Japan. I'm sure the same goes for China. Whatever works for you. My only advice would be to maintain a bit of your life in the U.S. Keep in touch with friends and family, keep a bank account and credit card, keep filing your tax returns, etc. in case some day you want to come back.