What makes a city become more than simply the place where you work? For Jaf Abbas, Grade 4 English and History Teacher and Chair of Primary Humanities at BASIS International School Nanjing, it is the city’s rich history, welcoming community, and balance between ancient traditions and modern life that make it a place to call home.
Finding Home in China’s Old Capital
When I first arrived in China, I was originally living in Zhejiang province. In my second year as a teacher, I swiftly made the decision to relocate to Nanjing. As the old capital of China, Nanjing has an allure that I cannot explain fully in words; it is, for lack of a better word… home.
Nanjing has many ancient Chinese marvels that fascinate me. I love how the city blends the old world and the new. At night after work, I like to explore the many hidden gems across Nanjing, from the Confucius temple area to Lao Men Dong, a very traditional-style market street. There is a modern city center and a beautiful lake and park in the Xuanwu District, but it is still these reminders of the old world that capture my fascination.
Old World, New World
I have always been drawn to ancient China and other ancient civilizations in Asia. The architecture is so unique and the culture so rich that it captivates me time and time again. What is nice about Nanjing is that, apart from wandering about and discovering hidden gems, the people here are very generous, kind, and giving.
At first, interacting with the locals may feel odd, as people sometimes stare out of curiosity or seem shy about communicating, but once you break through, they are incredibly open and kind. I have walked about different parts of Nanjing and been greeted by many. The moment people hear me speak Chinese, they open up, and they make this place feel even more like home.
The amazing thing about the people of Nanjing is how aware they are of their own culture. They are actively building monuments to the old world and keeping their culture alive. This can be seen in the incredibly beautiful Niushou Shan, a stunning testament to Chan Buddhism and an architecturally breathtaking site. When I visited it for the first time and stepped into the inner hall, I was stunned into silence as I marveled at the beauty of the art and culture on display.
Where I Eat, Breathe, and Live My Work
Aside from my love for the city and the simple life, I really love where I live in Xianlin. It is quiet, green, and beautiful to walk around, and it is home to BASIS International School Nanjing. I often joke that I eat, breathe, and live my work, but it is true. Within BASIS International School Nanjing, I have found a community of peers who are such inspiring people to be around. I have met amazing students and families who drive me to continue improving as a teacher.
The Team That Inspires Me
Through my colleagues and BASIS International School Nanjing, I am constantly inspired to evolve, grow, and bring my best self to the classroom. A huge shoutout to Chris Olford, Paul Thorn, Carolyn Davidson, William Jarrett, and Steven Melitz for being a part of the best Humanities/English team that I have ever worked with. Your excellence as people, your generosity, and kindness are a source of continuous inspiration. I could not have asked for a better place of work, better colleagues, or a better place to be.
Jaf Abbas
Grade 4 English and History
Chair of Primary Humanities
BASIS International School Nanjing
For more information about teaching abroad with BASIS International Schools, visit our careers website.
Watch the recording of our live webinar about teaching at BASIS International School Nanjing on our YouTube channel.
