ZHOU Jiahui

Where I’m From 

I come from Shenyang in Northeast China, a vibrant city known for its rich history, down-to-earth people, and its beautifully distinct four seasons.  

My Go-To Comfort Foods 

I love har gow and Beijing roast duck — they’re my ultimate comfort foods. 

Hobbies
I enjoy swimming, playing badminton, kayaking, and cycling. 

Dance 

I can do Chinese dance, and I also enjoy Guofeng jazz—a modern style that blends traditional Chinese classical dance elements with contemporary movement. 

I also have experience in Latin dance, and I really enjoy jazz dance as well. 

 Favourite Thing About Teaching Chinese 

My favourite part of teaching Chinese is the interaction with students. I really enjoy the moments when we exchange ideas, explore the language together, and build understanding through lively, engaging conversations. 

Top Tip for Beginner Learners of Chinese 

Start small and stay consistent — even a few minutes a day can make a real difference. Don’t be afraid to try, speak, or make mistakes. As Wayne Gretsky says, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” It’s the same with learning Chinese: every attempt counts, and each small step brings you closer to progress. 

Top Tip for More Advanced Learners of Chinese 

Once you reach a higher level, the best thing you can do is stay curious and keep challenging yourself with real, authentic language. Try reading topics you genuinely enjoy, talk to native speakers whenever you can, and don’t shy away from words or expressions you haven’t seen before. Treat every new phrase as an invitation to deepen your understanding — that’s where the most rewarding progress happens. 

 Favourite Chinese Idiom 

 “静水流深” (jìng shuǐ liú shēn), which literally means “still waters run deep.”  

I love this idiom because it reminds us that true strength and understanding often grow quietly and steadily over time — a mindset that’s especially helpful in language learning. 

 Recommended Chinese Book 

One Chinese book I really enjoy is 《三体》 The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin.
It’s imaginative, thoughtful, and full of interesting ideas. I like how the story opening up new ways of thinking, making it an engaging read even for those who don’t usually choose science fiction.