For two weeks in July 2011 the Chinese Language Institute (CLI) hosted a group of Peace Corps volunteers, each currently completing a two-year assignment in China. A total of ten students joined CLI today for two weeks of intensive Chinese language training.

This past week we organized a lamb roast at a local Xinjiang restaurant, a game of ultimate frisbee on the main field at Guangxi Normal University, and a house party with local and international friends in downtown Guilin. In addition to cultural activities throughout the city, each Peace Corps student attended four daily hours of small group Chinese lessons with three separate teachers.

At the conclusion of the program, each Peace Corps volunteer was asked what, to them, makes CLI unique? Here's a sampling of their responses:

Sky W.
"CLI's organization, transparency and professionalism make it unique. These characteristics made studying in Guilin comfortable and made me feel very welcome and well taken care of."

Andrew T.
"I think the family vibe here makes CLI unique. From the group lunches to the organized evening activities, we have many chances to meet and get to know local people."

Seth S.
"Its location and staff. The staff's knowledge of the area, and the resources they have, are great."

Warren I.
"The community feel that's been developed here."

Katherine L.
"CLI is unique in the fact that classes are very small and personal. The subject of the classes is very modern and applicable to today's world. I had an amazing time in Guilin. CLI really increased my language skills and it was a great experience!"

Nicholas S.
"Lots of personal attention and interaction with teachers and directors made CLI unique."