By Wing Yi Chu
Look at the bottom of your shoes, tags on your shirt and pants, and even the towel you use everyday, and you may see the words 'Made in China.'
The increasing influence and presence of China in the world motivates many people to learn Chinese.
BYU offers both Chinese (Mandarin) bachelor and master programs to help students 'develop competence in the Chinese language, literature and culture.'
Studying Chinese is more time consuming than other European languages because it is a non-alphabetic system and there is a cultural distance, said Matthew B. Christensen, head of Chinese section of Asian and Near Eastern languages.
'It takes a lot of hard work and commitment,' Christensen said.
Jeffrey Edwards, a sophomore currently taking a Chinese course, said learning Chinese requires great dedication.
'Unless you''re seriously planning to live in China or be involved in Asia, it may not be worth it to learn this language,' Edwards said.
A Chinese major student who has a right attitude is more important than one processing an aptitude, Christensen said.
'He or she needs to be a solid student and eager to learn,' Christensen said. 'You have to adjust the way you perceive the world.'
The 100- and 200-level Chinese classes are divided into two sections, one for returned missionaries served in Chinese-speaking mission, and the other for non-returned missionaries or non-Chinese speaking returned missionaries.
Christensen said he sees a growing trend of students who served a non-Chinese speaking mission majoring in Chinese and many of them are outstanding.
'Some of our best students are not Chinese-speaking returned missionaries,' Christensen said. 'The reason is they work really hard and they study abroad.'
Chinese major students study modern Chinese literature as well as ancient Chinese poetry. Students can also learn Chinese art by taking Chinese calligraphy.
Students majoring in Chinese take average of eight semesters to graduate. Studying abroad may help students graduate sooner.
Christensen said he strongly encourages Chinese major students to have a strong minor such as business, double majors, or go to graduate school.
Cody Kirk, a senior from Virginia majoring in Chinese, said he is planning to attend law school after graduation because he is interested in international law.
'China is going to open,' Kirk said. 'You have more opportunities when you speak two languages.'
Although many Chinese major students go into the business field, some choose to go into other fields such as law, medical, engineering and military.
Christensen advised students to take Chinese 101, Beginning Mandarin, or Chinese 345, Chinese Culture, to try out first.
Students who are interested in majoring in Chinese can go to the College Advisement Center to declare the major.