My high school doest offer Mandarin what should I do?

Question

the high school i am about to go to doesnt offer Mandarin and I really wanted to take that language. Can you give me any ideas on what to do.

-list any community colleges,tutors,online programs, anything!

Answer 1

Consider taking other languages offered, such as French or Spanish (depending on your future plans and the area you live in). Latin is also helpful on the SATs and for future jobs involving research. Mandarin won't be very helpful because most children in China are being educated in English or are being taught English at the very least, making Mandarin as a trade language obsolete!

Answer 2

If you're interested in Mandarin, don't listen to the other answerer.  And most  people in China can NOT speak English-at least not enough to be able to communicate at a reasonable level.

Depending on where you live, you may be able to take it at a local community college.  You'll have to ask a school counselor for more info on this.

If you're motivated to do self-study, I highly recommend using the  New Practical Chinese Reader series (make sure it's the NEW series and not the original Practical Chinese Reader).  It takes you from beginner level through intermediate (about 3 years of college Mandarin).  There are six volumes, each one includes (each sold separately):A textbook, a workbook and audio CDs to accompany both of them (there's also an instructor's manual for each, but I don't think they're necessary for self study).

The current prices for volume 1 (on amazon):

Textbook - $12.84

Workbook CDs - $16.95

Textbook CDs - $29.95

Workbook  - currently not in stock (but I bought it from another user for like $16.00)

If it costs too much, start with the textbook and then get the workbook and CDs as you get the money for them.

Also, if you can find a tutor (check ads or ask people you know, maybe?), you'll learn a lot better and faster.

Answer 3

I'd say go to a community college.

You could also try to get a job at a Chinese restaurant. Tell them that you'll wash dishes and mop floors and do all the dirty work in exchange for picking up some Mandarin.