From China to Canada and Back Again: My Journey as a Modern Single Mom and ESL Teacher

Growing up as a third culture kid and managing life as a single mother has been both challenging and rewarding. My name is Julie Liu, and my story spans from Mainland China to Edmonton, Canada, and back again. Presently, I am teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) to students ranging from kindergarten to middle school in Mainland China while also parenting my younger daughter. This unique journey has shaped my identity and perspectives, and I’m excited to share how my background influences my work and life.

Finding My Identity

Being a third culture kid means not fully belonging to one culture. I often describe myself as a blend of Chinese and Canadian cultures. It’s a mix of the rich traditions from my Chinese heritage and the open-mindedness I’ve embraced from Canada.

Growing up in Edmonton exposed me to various cultures and perspectives. I learned to value open communication and community, which are significant elements of Canadian society. Simultaneously, I hold dear the customs and values of my Chinese background. This duality enriches my identity and greatly benefits my teaching. The cultural sensitivity and adaptability I developed allow me to connect deeply with my students, helping them navigate their own cultural experiences.

A Journey Through Education

My educational path has been diverse and enlightening. I began my studies at the University of Alberta, pursuing a general arts degree. However, I transitioned to Athabasca University for online learning. This change was essential as it allowed me to juggle my studies with life as a single mother of two daughters.

This flexible education model was invaluable. Studies show that single mothers often face obstacles in achieving their educational goals, with 53% of them dropping out of college due to financial and personal constraints. I am proud to be among those who have found a way through these challenges. As I learned about communication and language, I prepared myself for my current role as an ESL teacher. The skills I gained enable me to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for my students.

Teaching with Heart and Passion

For almost nine years, I have taught ESL to children from kindergarten to middle school. Instead of working in local schools, I chose to run my own personal teaching studio. This decision empowers me to tailor a curriculum to meet my students' specific needs, fostering a positive environment for learning.

Teaching is more than just a job for me; it’s a passion. I remember the difficulties I faced while learning English, which motivates me to create a fun and engaging atmosphere for my students. For example, I incorporate games and interactive activities to enhance their love for the language. Seeing my students' progress and confidence, regardless of how small, fuels my dedication.

Last year, I had a group of five students who initially struggled with basic vocabulary. After just three months of personalized lessons, they improved their English proficiency by over 40%. Moments like this remind me why I became a teacher.

Coping with Change

Life as a single mom after my divorce has tested my resilience without diminishing my spirit. I take pride in who I’ve become. The challenges I faced have led me to understand the importance of gratitude and acceptance.

I focus on what I can control: my attitude, my reactions, and the environment I cultivate for my daughters and students. This mental shift allows me to embrace life’s ups and downs, finding joy in unexpected moments. Simple acts—watching my daughters succeed or seeing my students grasp new concepts—bring me happiness. Gratitude keeps me grounded, reminding me to appreciate what I have while striving for a brighter future.

Holding onto Childhood Dreams

Despite juggling the responsibilities of being a single mom and an educator, I hold on to my childhood dreams. I always wanted to inspire and positively influence others. This aspiration drives me daily, whether in my teaching or parenting.

I aim to be a responsible mother, instilling strong values in my daughters and encouraging them to pursue their dreams. I want them to understand that their heritage is a source of strength, blending cultures to shape their identities in unique ways.

As I reflect on my journey, I see how my experiences have readied me for future challenges. I am committed to being a role model for my daughters and my students, showing them that they can create their own stories.

Embracing the Journey Ahead

Life has been a whirlwind, filled with experiences that have shaped who I am today. Balancing the roles of a modern single mom and an ESL teacher, I appreciate the unique tapestry of my life. My background, experiences, and ongoing journey of personal growth teach me that adaptability and gratitude are essential for overcoming life’s challenges.

As I continue on this path, I stay hopeful and excited for what the future holds. My mission is to inspire the next generation in my studio and at home. Each day is a chance to show that dreams can coexist with reality, proving that we are all unique stories waiting to unfold.