Page 5 - Book V Unit 2

Using Language

Express your opinions on studying abroad

1 A local newspaper has invited parents to share their opinions about studying
abroad. Read these two letters and underline each writer’s main points. Then
mark the reasons for their opinions.

STUDYING ABROAD: IS IT A GOOD OR A BAD IDEA?

Dear Editor, Dear Editor,
In the past few decades, there has been a dramatic Is studying abroad a good idea or not? There
increase in the number of people studying abroad. are certainly disadvantages, but in my opinion, the
Although studying abroad can bring great benefits, I advantages are much greater. As I always tell my son,
think the disadvantages for young people are greater. there are no great difficulties for a person who is brave,
To begin with, many students who study abroad face optimistic, and willing to work hard!
great economic pressure. That means studying abroad The first advantage of studying abroad is personal
is just not possible for everyone. Tuition fees and living growth. The education you gain and the experiences
expenses are much more expensive than at home and you have will change you for the better. For example,
could end up costing most families an arm and a leg. you will certainly become more independent because
Studying in China is much more convenient and can you will have to deal with all kinds of difficulties by
help save money. yourself. Studying abroad also helps you to gain a global
Another important factor to consider is the perspective and improve your general competence.
tremendous pressure that comes with studying Another advantage is the increased chance for cultural
abroad. Students must learn how to live in an exchange. Chinese students can be seen as cultural envoys
unfamiliar environment with limited language skills. promoting friendship between nations. International
Some may struggle and suffer from culture shock students in China also bring their colourful cultures
when learning how to behave in new surroundings. here. Cooperating with people from diverse cultural
Other students are not mature enough to handle backgrounds helps us view the world from different angles
the challenges by themselves and may become and thus gives us more insight into our own culture.
depressed. Some students might even encounter Finally, studying abroad provides a great opportunity
problems with personal safety. In addition, different to contribute to the development of our motherland.
approaches to teaching and learning may come as a China’s global outlook, with projects such as the Belt
shock to many students. and Road Initiative, has helped us make connections
A final point to consider is that while studying across the world. Therefore, China needs more talented
abroad does have potential benefits, young people young people with a global perspective who are
who study in China also have a great future to look highly competent with languages, have leadership and
forward to! As China has boomed, the educational organisational skills, and have strong cultural awareness.
environment has improved significantly, with many Students who study abroad will develop such skills and
great universities now available. They have great abilities, and these in turn will provide them with better
facilities and outstanding professors, helping to educate career opportunities.
young people who will contribute to the economy and All in all, studying abroad helps to build character
further strengthen our country. and increase people’s understanding of cultural diversity
To sum up, one cannot deny the fact that studying while strengthening China and building a shared future
abroad has its disadvantages, so when you think about for all. I think this life-changing experience is certainly
studying abroad, you should consider these many worthwhile, and I hope my child will study abroad in the
factors. future.
Kind regards, Sincerely yours,
Wang Li (mother of twin girls) Zhang Yi (father of one boy)

20 UNIT 2 BRIDGING CULTURES