WRITING PRACTICE
BENIFITS/DRAWBACKS OF BUYING PRODUCT DIRECTLY FROM LOCAL FARMERS
From a Chinese perspective, buying products directly from local farmers has both benefits and challenges.
On the positive side, many Chinese consumers are increasingly concerned about food safety, and purchasing directly from farmers can give them greater confidence in knowing where their food comes from. Fresh vegetables, fruits,meats often taste better and have fewer chemical additives compared to mass-produced supermarket goods. In addition, supporting local farmers is a way to preserve traditional agriculture, which is important in many rural areas like Shanghai which facing rapid urbanization.
However, there are also drawbacks. In large Chinese cities, farmers’ markets or direct supply channels are not always easy to access, busy urban residents often prefer the convenience of supermarkets or online platforms such as “MEITUAN”(a delivery platform), that deliver food to their doorstep. Moreover, without strict regulation, some small farmers may not meet the same quality or standards as larger suppliers. In conclusion, while buying directly from local farmers in China can provide healthier food and support rural communities, it is not always the most convenient or reliable choice for people living in modern cites.
DIFFERENCES/SIMILARITIES BETWEEN THE TEACHERS IN MY NATIVE COUNTRY TO NEW LECTURERS
Having just completed my first week on the Marino International Foundation Programme, I have already noticed some important differences as well as similarities between the expectations of my lecturers here and those of my teachers back home.
The first and most obvious difference is the language. At Marino, every class is conducted in English, which is quite different from my previous experience. While it sometimes makes learning more challenging, it also provides me with valuable opportunities to improve my communication skills in an international setting. A second difference is the teaching approach. Lecturers here often encourage group work, which requires me to collaborate with classmates from different cultural and educational backgrounds. This helps me to develop teamwork skills and broaden my perspectives. A third difference is the emphasis on independent thinking. Rather than simply giving us direct answers, lecturers prefer to guide us and leave more space for us to reflect, analyse, and solve problems ourselves.
Despite these differences, I have also found some similarities. Both in my home country and at Marino, teachers aim to create a relaxed classroom atmosphere. They are friendly, approachable, and often use humour, which makes learning more enjoyable and less stressful.
Overall, I really appreciate my lecturers at Marino. Their supportive and open style of teaching makes me feel welcome, and I am excited to continue studying in this environment.