Beijing Normal/blcu In August?

[opinari]

Hi all,

I've finally decided to spend August in Beijing improving my Mandarin before leaving to travel. Is anyone else planning to enroll in either the BLCU or BNU programs for August? I'm having a lot of trouble deciding which one to enroll in.

Also, do you guys know if the intensive program (30hrs/wk)at BLCU is worth it? I'm an advanced speaker, but really want to improve my writing.

Much thanks!

[Scoobyqueen]

If you only have a month I would go for one-to-one lessons. The fees charged by Beijing Normal for an intensive group course may be the same as one-to-one lessons at a school.

[greenarcher]

1 month might not be enough to improve your writing skills.

[tboasis7]

I'm going to BNU this August, and I've heard its quite intense and you learn a lot. Lots of characters.

BCLU is more international from what I have heard so you may be finding yourself speaking English more than you want, compared to BNU that is.

[opinari]

If you only have a month I would go for one-to-one lessons. The fees charged by Beijing Normal for an intensive group course may be the same as one-to-one lessons at a school.

I hadn't really thought much about that option. Are there any schools that you'd especially recommend? In the past, I've leaned towards classes because it's nice to live on campus, meet classmates, talk with Chinese students, but I'd give an one-on-one school a try if it was comparable for the price.

1 month might not be enough to improve your writing skills.

That's really good point. Unfortunately, none of the universities offer a longer course starting in August. I have to return to the states for work in the fall, so I can't stay for an entire semester. I might try to find a private school for one-on-one lessons afterwards? I'm going to try to get as much practice as I can with writing.

I'm going to BNU this August, and I've heard its quite intense and you learn a lot. Lots of characters.

BCLU is more international from what I have heard so you may be finding yourself speaking English more than you want, compared to BNU that is.

That's what I've been hearing too. I've visited Wudaokou before and I'm not sure I'd want to stay around there. As of now, it looks like I'm heading to BNU, so maybe I'll meet you there!

Thanks all for your replies and any other comments would be much appreciated.