Frank, laowai（老外） is not a term of endearment, perhaps it can be used in such a manner between friends, but in general it is an aspect of xenophobia present in Chinese culture. 外国人 (foreigner)，老外 (foreigner)， 鬼(ghost, foreigner)， 外地人(outsider) are all terms used that have a connotation of fear and ... Full Comment>>

I worked in China for about three years and I had a similar experience. I felt useless working as a teacher and most students, parents, and co-workers looked down on me in one way or another. I do think you are missing a larger piece of the puzzle, Chinese culture really looks down on outsiders, whether you are a ... Full Comment>>