Some ate with chopsticks; some ate with forks.

Demonstrative of its very mission, the Chinese Language Program Party brought together two cultures for dinner and presentations in an effort to learn from one another. Wei Wu, director of the Chinese Language Program, greeted both American and Chinese students at the door of the Flint Hills Room in the Union Wednesday evening with not only two languages, but also enthusiasm for the program.

Wu said the purpose of the Chinese Language Program is to connect American students learning Chinese with Chinese students learning English in the hopes they not only help each other perfect a foreign language, but also that they learn about and experience one another's culture. Each American student is paired with a Chinese student, who teaches his partner about the Chinese language and culture while learning about American culture in return. The annual party unites American students with their Chinese language partners for a Chinese dinner, presentations on the program and getting-to-know-you games.

Lekuang "Robert" Wang, junior in finance, came to the U.S. three years ago from China after a family friend recommended he study at K-State. Wang is part of the program and said he feels it creates an understanding of the languages as well as the culture and how Chinese and American students and citizens can work together. Wang said the education system is very different from what he was used to in China.

"I was not used to strangers smiling at me as I walked. It was a very weird feeling," said Wang as he spoke of differences in cultures.

On the other side of the cultural exchange is Brent Pinkall, senior in electronic journalism. Pinkall traveled to China in the summer of 2008 after starting Chinese language classes and joining the Chinese Language Program.

"[The program] is a great way to connect and not just learn from each other, but become friends," said Pinkall.

Pinkall spent his first trip to China teaching English to students in Wuhan, China at Huazhong Normal University's art department. While he was told to expect only 15-20 students per class, Pinkall said that the freshman students alone totaled 91 English learners.

Pinkall said he meets at least 10 Chinese students each day through his Chinese friends and has taken his language partner to his home for holiday celebrations.

"Many students are intimidated by the huge Chinese population on our campus. You can either run away and keep your distance, or get to know and welcome them," said Pinkall.

In January Pinkall will be traveling to China again, where he will spend his spring semester after receiving a scholarship that sponsors American students traveling to China.

Three scholarships are made available to students interested in spending a semester in China: one made possible by Dr. Bill Meredith, special assistant to the provost, who is working to increase the exchange programs between K-State and China, and two funded by the Chinese government.

Pinkall presented on his trip to China and also shared a few tips for students just starting to learn Chinese. He said the most difficult but also the coolest part of learning Chinese is the writing of it.

As far as Chinese classes go, Pinkall said patience, repetition and pacing yourself so you actually learn the material are most important when successfully mastering Chinese.

The Chinese Language Program is part of K-State's International Programs and not only organizes the partnership between Chinese and American students, but also hosts festivals, visitors and class activities each year.

Summing up his experiences so far, Pinkall said, "You don't know how far the [Chinese Language] program will take you in the world."