Culture in hand - Studying abroad in heart: Where tradition paves the way for language

Dumplings (Jiaozi) are a cornerstone of Chinese tradition, symbolizing reunion, luck, happiness, and prosperity as the Lunar New Year approaches. The custom of making dumplings is more than just preparing a meal; it is a cherished ritual for families to reflect on the past year and welcome the new one with hope and joy.

With the goal of helping students move beyond rote learning to deeply understand culture—mimicking the immersive experience of future international students—the Chinese Language Department at GFS Ecopark Campus recently hosted the experiential event: “Culture in Hand - Studying Abroad in Heart.” The program offered students a platform to present their research to a panel of judges and step into the roles of authentic chefs to craft this iconic dish of the world’s most populous nation.

During the presentation segment, six groups from classes 10G4 and 12C1 confidently showcased their Chinese language skills. They explored various facets of Jiaozi, including its historical origins, cultural significance, ingredients, diverse varieties, and its role in both traditional Tet celebrations and modern daily life. Beyond their fluent Chinese, students impressed the audience with meticulous preparation, featuring professional slides, interactive games, and unique costumes.

Transitioning to the hands-on workshop, students prepared fillings, learned traditional folding techniques, and cooked the dumplings themselves. While many pairs of hands were initially hesitant, they grew increasingly skillful under the teachers' guidance. A variety of uniquely shaped dumplings soon emerged, prepared through various methods: pan-frying, steaming, boiling, and in soups.

Amidst the chilly year-end weather, gathering to wrap and enjoy piping hot dumplings created unforgettable memories. Bao Ha (Class 12C1) shared that this was her first time making dumplings, noting that the activity significantly broadened her global cultural awareness. Similarly, Minh Tam (Class 10G4) reflected that exploring the culture made learning the language feel much more natural and intuitive.

At the conclusion of the event, awards were presented for "The Best Presentation," "The Best Dish," "The Best Dish Introduction," and "The Best Teamwork." However, the true success lay in the students' discovery of their own linguistic potential through the lens of culture. This experience has served as a powerful motivator, fueling their passion for the Chinese language and bringing them one step closer to their dreams of studying abroad.