English Corner

Responce to reading Daniel Ikenson's article " Cornering Freedom in China"

Beijing University’s English Corner seems like a fascinating and yet not uncommon setting across the globe. A few years back I stumbled upon a similar gathering at UNAM (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México) in Mexico City. Similar to Azad’s experience at Tehran University, student attendance was more of an outlet and exchange of ideas then a direct search on how to improve one’s self.

The concept of hopping on a plane and experiencing a foreign culture remains a distant economical dream to many. In addition, with American politics and entertainment impacting media around the globe, it is no surprise foreign interest is drawn to gatherings such as the English Corner. I also agree that college campuses are a thriving garden of ideas and feelings. This social arboretum is ideal for political discussions.

The experience at UNAM was remarkably edifying. Surrounded by a multitude of curious minds, I found myself taking more away from the experience then I could give back. In light of that experience, I would embrace the opportunity to experience Beijing University’s English Corner.