For the past two years, Chinese language intern Shuai (Joanna) Qiao has found community at Colgate University, alongside her long-haired cat, Mocha. Qiao was drawn to the university’s close-knit campus community and strong language program — the small class sizes create an interactive classroom environment.
“I enjoy working with students in a small and interactive environment. The small classes allow students to practice Chinese in real life and conversation,” Qiao said.
For Qiao, helping students with language also extends beyond the classroom. Her love for cultural connection is closely intertwined with her study of language.
“Language is not just vocabulary and grammar, it’s a way to understand people, traditions and different perspectives. I especially enjoy seeing students gain confidence when they start using Chinese in real conversations,” Qiao said. “It makes me incredibly happy and fulfilled when students tell me they loved studying and living in China and even want to return after their off-campus study. Knowing the experience has had a lasting impact on them is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.”
While Qiao builds connections on the Colgate campus, she also finds companionship at home with her long-haired cat named Mocha. Qiao has had Mocha for around five and a half years since adopting him from a shelter in Long Island. Mocha’s name was chosen intentionally for its similar pronunciation in both English and Chinese.
“My cat’s name is Mocha. I chose the name because the Chinese pronunciation, “Mó kă,” sounds very similar to the English word ‘Mocha.’ I mostly speak Chinese to him at home, but when he goes to the vet or meets my friends, it’s helpful that his name sounds the same in English. It makes it easier for him to recognize when people are calling him,” Qiao said.
Mocha’s personality adds warmth and companionship to Qiao’s home life.
“Mocha is very curious and playful, but also affectionate and aggressive. He likes to follow me around the house and sit near me when I’m working. Mocha is like my little companion and family member. Taking care of him is part of my daily routine, and he helps me to relax after busy workdays,” Qiao said.
Mocha also makes a point to include himself in Qiao’s professional life at Colgate, particularly during virtual meetings.
“He seems to know exactly when I need to be serious and decides that’s the perfect time to appear on camera,” Qiao said. “My husband, who also works at Colgate, was grading papers at home and once he finished the grading, Mocha sat on the papers.”
Despite the occasional interruptions, Mocha plays an important role in Qiao’s life.
“He reminds me to take breaks and keep a good balance between work and life. Sometimes I even use him as a fun conversation topic with friends, co-workers and students which helps to create a relaxed atmosphere,” Qiao said.
Outside of the classroom, Qiao’s days are filled with language practice with students and organizing events.
“A typical day [for me] includes meeting many students for one-on-one Chinese practice sessions, helping them with pronunciation and conversation. I also help organize cultural activities and prepare materials,” Qiao said.
From teaching language, organizing cultural events and hanging out with Mocha, Qiao has built her life at Colgate around connection. Whether guiding students through conversation practice or sharing a story about Mocha, Qiao has been able to build and strengthen the campus community.
