Jeb Sumeracki 2013

It is said that while learning another language not only does one gain a valuable skill but also gains access to a new world of ideas and opportunities. At Central High School I was introduced to Chinese language and culture, where every class period felt like reading further into an adventure novel. Every verb studied, sentence constructed and social custom introduced was a turn of the page. The small class sizes, reasonable pace and the teachers being equally dedicated to the language and student’s success was invaluable experience which left me with a deep impression. Besides, the excellent resources and teachers at Central High School, the most valuable thing I gained was an introduction the Chinese language world.

I then began attending UW-Madison and with a strong base gained at Central High School, I was able to be set myself apart from my classmates at university language classes. My language skills were better than most my classmates, and thanks to my previous study abroad experience in Luoyang, China I was not just one student among 50 to my professors. With the cultural introduction I gained at Central High School I was able to make better relationships with my professors and instructors. Currently I have studied abroad once more in Tianjin, China on scholarship thanks to my strong start at Central High School.

I have found through my study of Chinese literature, language, history and Contemporary society that study of a foreign language offers experience and knowledge that cannot be found in ones native or most familiar culture. Finally, in May of 2017 I plan to graduate with a double major in Computer Science & Chinese. I am fully confident that my experience with Chinese language and culture has prepared me to enjoy a successful life.