Job Discussion Forums

[Delltron]

I just signed a contract to work at a university in Changchun. Although I have heard good things about it's people, I'm interested in
hearing others' experiences.

[The Great Wall of Whiner]

I like Changchun very much. If I could earn even half of what I earn now, I'd consider going there for a year. I like the fact I can buy western products, there is are McDonald's for when you feel like being a pig and missing home, lots of both Chinese and foreigners who speak English to befriend, lots of Koreans so I can have good Korean food.

The only downside is that I find the Germans who live there unfriendly.

[MisterButtkins]

I've been to Changchun one time. It was a little bit smoggy and it seems like it might be worse in the winter when they turn the coal-powered heating systems on. The food is very good - it's northeast style, which is very tasty, and not as greasy as the food in some other parts of China. It seems like it's a fairly dense city, with lots of high apartment buildings. Nightlife seemed decent, for a Chinese city. There are certainly lots of Germans in the city. Didn't meet any other Americans there, seemed to be mostly Europeans. I think there's definitely worse cities to live in than Changchun.

[bnej]

Northeastern style NOT as greasy as the rest of China? Whaaaat? I have to disagree a bit, it's every bit as salty and greasy as the rest of the country.

Going there tomorrow, will post an update when I get back.

[Delltron]

I guess I'll find out myself soon enough: I fly to Changchun this evening and will be there on the 6th of October. From what I am gathering, the northeastern people tend to be more friendly than those of other regions in China, though of course such generalizations only go so far. Without a doubt, however, I am very excited to live there and hope it will be a nice place to start my teaching in China.

I would still appreciate hearing others' experiences.