Mr. Mark Sylte, current Head of School at BASIS International & Bilingual Schools Chengdu and the Founding Head of School for BASIS Bilingual School Beijing (opening Fall 2026), recently shared his personal journey with students in a unique and memorable way. His experience learning Chinese as an adult has shaped not only his leadership but also his perspective on the power of language to connect cultures and foster understanding.
A Lesson Beyond the Classroom
Grade 9 and Grade 11 students experienced a special Chinese lesson: they watched a full Mandarin interview with Head of School, Mr. Mark Sylte. In this conversation, Mr. Sylte reflected on his personal journey of learning Chinese since the age of 28. From the initial intensive, boot-camp-style language immersion to eventually appreciating the cultural depth embedded in the language, he emphasized that learning a language is also learning a culture. His message to our students was clear: do not take this opportunity lightly—cherish the unique privilege of studying Chinese, and prepare yourselves to become cultural ambassadors who can lead with wisdom and empathy.
Student Reflections
Following the interview, students engaged in discussion and produced reflective writings. Many expressed admiration for Mr. Sylte’s determination and linguistic talent, while also describing a renewed motivation for their own studies. They shared that this conversation helped them realize the broader significance of language learning—not only as a tool for communication, but also as a pathway to sharpen critical thinking and to deepen cultural understanding.
An Awakening Through Language
Ultimately, this first Chinese lesson was more than an academic exercise—it was a moment of awakening. By hearing their Head of School’s journey and encouragement, students were reminded that learning a language lays the most solid humanistic foundation for understanding the world and oneself; mastering it enables deeper roots and broader paths, fostering better communication with the world and dialogue with the future.
Looking Ahead to Beijing
As the Founding Head of School preparing to open BASIS Bilingual School Beijing, Mr. Sylte’s story serves as both an inspiration and a challenge: to approach language not simply as an academic requirement, but as a lifelong journey of growth. For the students who heard his message, this experience was a reminder that learning a language is also learning to see the world, and themselves, with greater depth and empathy.
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