I first found JESIE while looking on the website ESL Teachers Board (eslteachersboard.com).  I had an interview with Phyllis over Skype, and before I knew it, I was in China!

JESIE picked me up at Lukou Airport in Nanjing, and set me up in their residence.  Unfortunately for me, my old computer crashed the night before I left for China! Without hesitation, JESIE sent me out with an assistant to the nearest Apple store (thanks, June!) to help me buy a new computer.

Kathleen Oleksiuk (Academic Advisor) showed us newbies the area around JESIE, including the shops and restaurants.  She also helped us to get our transit cards, a definite necessity if you are living in Nanjing.

About a month later, I required assistance once again: my old Canadian phone was not working well in China, plus I needed glasses for computer work.  June took me to an optometrist recommended by Suo Ping (the Associate President of JESIE). While we waited for the glasses to be made, we headed over to China Mobile so I could buy a new phone. Both of these purchases have made my life here much easier!

I have also had some issues in regards to housing. The staff at JESIE was able to assist in resolving these problems, and I was able to move in to the teachers apartments on campus.

If you are considering coming to China to teach, I would highly recommend you contact JESIE.  Not only does this non-profit organization help newcomers adjust to life in China, but they also provide teachers with training and assistance. Two weeks of training are offered, as well as support and guidance throughout your time in Jiangsu Province. These include peer reviews, Open Days, regular contact with supervisors, and teaching assistance when required. I know of no agency that goes this far for their teachers, and I have been pleasantly surprised at their efficiency and professionalism.