And the dream run continues

In my last blog I had just arrived in Nanjing and was amazed at how organised everything seemed to be.....well I'm pleased to say the dream run continues. I've got a complete class schedule for the whole semester, have already planned what I'm going to teach in each session and am now working my way through developing my lesson plans!! I so LOVE being super organised!!!

I'm getting into a routine of sorts but still dread the 0650 bus run on Thursday mornings!!! No matter how hard I try I am simply NOT a morning person!! We have this bright green bus with dolphins on the side (not sure of the significance!) which takes us out to the other campus for teaching. You would think it would be hard to miss in traffic but we have had a few near misses with much horn honking and geturing!! Its about a one hour bus ride and I keep thinking it wil be great to catch up on my reading. However at the moment I find myself either gazing at the passing suburbia or falling asleep!! Sleeping does seem to be the major activity on the bus for the regulars!!

My students are all great. Many of them have the dream to go to Australia to finish their studies so I'm trying to help them with their IELTS as well as teaching the curriculum. Its interesting to see their different reactions as I can almost pick those who will have a chance of going and those who won't. Some just do not get the fact that they will have to change their study and learning style - one even told me that they just have to sit and listen and why am I getting them to speak!!!! Out of the mouths of babes.....guessing her trip to Aus is not looking too good!!!

Being in a bigger city (7.8m vs 3.6m) I notice some changes in attitude. People are not as friendly, there is more pushing and shoving (although I've got a pretty mean set of elbows now!!) and its hard to get people to help you. Maybe its just everything is more rushed but it is a pity as Nanjing has so much to offer in terms of tourism that it could become a major industry for the area and boost their economy. Unfortunately the attitude of the people has not gone un-noticed and I've read a number of travel blogs where people say to avoid Nanjing because of this.

With the weather finally warming up I will get the chance to visit some of the magnificent attractions this city has to offer which will be really exciting.