Today on the blog we have a great interview with Elisabeth a Speech Pathologist in China! Her story is really inspiring because she made the expat plunge as a single mother! This goes to show that anything you put your heart to accomplish, you can most certainly do it!
If you have any questions for her, please leave them in the comments section below!
1. Please introduce yourself.
My name is Edna Elisabeth Nyang and I am a 35 year old American currently living in Beijing China with my five year old daughter. I am a single mom and work as a speech pathologist and supervisor for a Chinese healthcare company. I’ve first lived abroad as an adult at the age of 20.
Edna Elizabeth in China
2. Why did you decide to move abroad?
This is my third time living abroad and I love the idea of learning about other cultures. Being in Asia, it’s extremely affordable to travel around and have a high quality of life.
3. As black American expat what advice would you give to others inspired to live abroad?
If your heart and soul desires to live abroad, then do it. Don’t try to talk yourself out of it and sometimes family/friends may dissuade you from following your dreams because they aren’t aware of all of the information. You know your situation better than anyone else, do it!
4. Elisabeth what are some adjusts you had to make for you new work enviroment?
I imagine certain aspects of the work ethic and culture are different in China. If you feel comfortable please share the biggest adjustments. I work for a Chinese company, so a lot of adjustments needed to be made. Things here are done at a slower pace than North America. Everyone takes lunch around the same time, which makes tasks impossible to complete between noon and 1:30pm. I have learned to explain things in a lot of detail as abstract ideas are more difficult to understand. I’ve learn to adapt to a work culture where innovative ideas aren’t celebrated and listening to and strictly adhering to your supervisor’s instructions is an absolute must.
5. How do people China treat you (as Black American)?
Honestly, I’ve been treated very well here. I’m a bit surprised because I know a few others who do not share the same views as I do. I think working in healthcare helps a lot as people here view me as a specialist who can help improve their child’s condition. I think having a young child helps as Chinese LOVES kids. We live in a non touristy neighbourhood and the locals have been very kind, genuine, and helpful to me.
6. Describe the first two months in five words?
Stressful, cold, chaotic, culture shock.
Edna Elizabeth in China
7. When teaching others about your culture, what is the most important thing you want them to know?
I want them to know that not all Americans are selfish and that the Black population in America is large and diverse.
8. Where do you escape when the new environment is becoming too much and you need a break?
I physically go to Malaysia or HK. LOL I need to leave Mainland China every 3-4 months or I lose a little bit of my sanity.
So inspiring! Thanks for this awesome post. This is my first blog post of yours and it’s awesome. Looking to dive into more of your content this weekend! <3
Hi Tishana! Thanks for checking out the post! Let me know if you have any questions! Stay blessed 🙂