As a child, Alfred Tong’s first encounter with a terrifying Chinese teacher deterred him from learning the language. As an adult, he tried again when the
Straits Times, where he worked, organised a beginners’ class for staff. Sadly, it was not the right fit for him and it did not provide the right learning platform.
Alfred graduated in 1971 from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and worked as a journalist for his entire career. Happily retired now, he decided to give learning Chinese another shot, when the NUS Lifelong Learners (NUS L
3) programme offered all alumni one fully subsidised course.
“I chose
Chinese 1 because I have always wanted to learn Chinese, but I faced unexpected obstacles”, he said, recounting his childhood experience of how the teacher would dish out punishment to terrified pupils.
Thankfully, Alfred’s most recent experience in learning the language has been a pleasant one, and he expressed joy in finally fulfilling his dream. “The experience was enhanced by a very patient, caring and encouraging teacher, Dr Gu Nannan, who nurtured my interest in the subject”, he said, enthusiastically adding that his course mates were all undergrads and younger than his sons. “It made me feel young again!”
Alfred described the learning experience as novel, but also challenging for an older adult learner. Not to be deterred this time, he applied himself and even learned how to write Chinese characters. “There were so many interesting and memorable learning moments for me, especially the projects we had to do.”
He had only expected to learn some conversational Mandarin but has since developed a keen interest to go further. “Now I want to improve my fluency in the language and use it in everyday interactions with Chinese-speaking folks”, he said.
To encourage other retired lifelong learners, Alfred shares a simple Chinese saying: “One is never too old to learn.” (活到老, 学到老). His parting advice: “Be passionate; learn as much as you are able to; do not let perceived obstacles hold you back; and above all, persevere.”