Daniel Haws arrived at Zhejiang Normal University (ZJNU) for the first time in 2015. He then returned home to the United States for graduate school. After earning his master's degree, he came back to ZJNU to teach. In the three years he has lived in Jinhua, he has not only grown fond of the city, but has also found love. He plans to obtain a doctorate, have a family, and live in Jinhua long-term.
Coming to China for a myth
When studying for his bachelor's degree in the US, Daniel took a world literature course. During the course, the professor spoke about Chinese myths and stories. Daniel was fascinated by them, and he wanted to learn more about Chinese mythology. His professor suggested teaching in China after graduating. It was in 2015 that he finally had an opportunity to come to ZJNU to serve as an English instructor.
There are certain differences between Chinese and American students. When teaching, Daniel does not force his students into things, but instead tries to inspire them by creating a warm and friendly classroom environment. He encourages students to ask questions and attempts to help them understand that it is normal to make mistakes. Mistakes are a part of the learning process. He is very happy to see that the students work hard to learn English and that their efforts are being rewarded.
For Daniel, living in Jinhua is a learning process. While he teaches students English, some of his students also tell him Chinese myths. This is how he learned about the legend of Nianshou, a mythical monster who according to folklore ate children and livestock, and learned why Chinese people set off firecrackers during the New Year. After the outbreak of COVID-19, Daniel even wrote a story about Nianshou themed around the empty city he saw around him. He has written over 2,000 words so far. It is not finished yet, but he says the ending will be a surprise.
Feeling the affection and care from loved ones
After three years in Jinhua, Daniel has assimilated to life there. He likes to make new friends after work and is enthusiastic about helping his friends' children make up lessons.
He has also found love in Jinhua. His girlfriend is from Longyou county in Quzhou and the two met at a party. Falling in love with a girl has made him appreciate Jinhua even more.
As for Chinese cuisine, there is nothing Daniel isn't willing to try. Many foreigners stay away from dishes like stinky tofu and century eggs, but Daniel loves them. He and his girlfriend usually make Chinese snacks like dumplings at home. "I can make them now!" Daniel exclaimed with excitement.
Daniel and his family installed WeChat, an instant messaging app, on their phones, which allows them to share their daily family life and funny videos. Though the pandemic worried Daniel, he is finally seeing hope: "I'm very happy these days, because my family in the States has been vaccinated."
Because of the beauty of Jinhua and his commitment to his girlfriend, Daniel plans to settle down in Jinhua, get married, and have children. In addition to teaching, he will continue his studies and obtain a doctorate.
(Text and photo by Wu Yueyue, translated by Marco Lovisetto and Daniel Haws)
