Job Discussion Forums

spatrick · Joined: 09 Apr 2003 Posts: 31

Hi,

I'm thinking of accepting a position at Xiangtan Normal Univ. I was wondering if anyone out there has heard any good or any bad things about this place.

It's in Hunan province, so I'd also like to ask if any of you would recommend living there.

Also, they pay under 5000 rmb; can one live on this in what looks to be a small city?

Thanks for your insights.

Patrick

Roger · Joined: 19 Jan 2003 Posts: 9138

Xiangtan is some 3 to 4 hours from Hunan's capital, Changsha. It is a nondescript place, but this should not deter you.
Pay of under 5000 RMB is still a royal salary in this part of China, no matter whether it is above 3000 or 4000!
If you work no more than 20 hours, I would regard it as good!
A normal school produces English teachers. So you should care more whether you can actually help refine their teaching. Let's hope they are open-minded.
Enjoy your Hunan sojourn!

davis · Posted: Thu Apr 10, 2003 11:16 am Post subject:

I almost excepted a position there last year but chose to come further south. Please let us know how it works out. One thing I can tell you...The food in Hunan is great if you like spicey.

randyj · Posted: Sat Apr 12, 2003 2:13 pm Post subject:

On the way to Shaoshan (Mao's ancestral home), we passed through Xiangtan. Maybe small by Chinese standards, it still seemed large to me! If you think Xiangtan too rustic, train or bus should provide convenient access to Changsha. Although I cannot recommend Hunan's climate, the people are wonderful. Relatively few foreigners go there, so expect curious stares. Or maybe it was just me. I love their spicy food, but the taste does not appeal to everyone.

dan · Joined: 20 Mar 2003 Posts: 247 Location: shanghai

5000 rmb in hunan!? snatch it up.

earth_dog · Joined: 04 Apr 2003 Posts: 13 Location: Canada/China

....but leave your cat at home! Very Happy