Dear Sir, Dear Madam, Student in Master's degree in "International Relations with diplomatic purpose" at “Université catholique de Louvain” (UCL) and in exchange program this last semester at "Zhejiang University" in Hangzhou, Popular Republic of China, I hereby apply to obtain a 2016-2017 CSC-WBI-FNRS in order to deepen my level of Chinese language.
After a year studying the Chinese language four hours a week at the UCL Language Institute and a half year of intensive courses (15 hours a week) as an exchange student at the Zhejiang University, I really became aware of the need to deepen my Mandarin level. My goal for next year will be to improve my language skills in order to use them in the working sphere: participate in discussions, give presentations, negotiate contracts, etc. In addition, total immersion will allow me to improve my pronunciation, including improving my command of four tones of the Chinese language and to familiarize myself with the typical Chinese expressions and customs. I also would like to have a better approach to some facets of Chinese’s culture by participating in various cultural activities, such as Weiqi (Chinese chess) and of course "Taiji" (Chinese boxing).
Nearly graduated in International Relations - diplomatic orientation, this Chinese language program will be essential for my future career. Indeed, for a career in a Belgian company with commercial relations in China, a complete year studying Chinese language will allow me to reach the level requested and necessary for this type of function. I also hope to contribute in one way or another to the development of relations between Belgium and China.
To achieve these two objectives, improving my language level and a better perception and approach of Chinese traditions, I am applying to participate to the Chinese Language program of “Hainan University”. Hainan University is for me an opportunity to learn the culture from the southern China. As I mentioned above, I went to Zhejiang University this last semester and learned the "north"'s way of life. I think that Chinese culture is not only the north's provinces, indeed China is a mix of populations and has an huge diversity of culture. By consequence, Hainan University seems to be a perfect choice.
Should you have any questions about my application or my motivations, I remain at your disposal by phone (0032497020009) and by mail (magali.strube@student.uclouvain.be).
Your sincerely,
STRUBE Magali
