家庭, also understood as “family” is what the National Chinese Honor Society on Cathedral Catholic High School’s campus has become. With only 7 members, the NCHS, has become a close knit community centering themselves on their love for the Chinese language and culture. 

The National Chinese Honor Society is often overlooked on Cathedral’s campus but has the dedication and spirit to continue highlighting and representing China. 

“It’s one of the most unique programs at Cathedral,” said NCHS member Ryan Mendoza ‘22. 

They are unique to CCHS’ campus because of their cultural focus and how they represent it on campus. With Chinese culture in itself being somewhat “obscure,” their mission is to illuminate the beauty of the culture. Chinese New Year also known as the Spring festival is their biggest event of the year. Regardless of the dragon and lion dancers and delicious dumplings, their love for Chinese culture triumphs all. 

President of the NCHS, Christian Aquino ‘22 claims, “if there was ever a place in Cathedral that was a place I feel welcomed in, it would definitely be in the Chinese program.” 

Members of not only the honor society but of all Chinese classes have come to value their family atmospheres. Over the years their close knit family developed a safe place to come together to “relax and have fun” while simultaneously learning an extraordinary language. 

When asked how learning Chinese at CCHS could benefit you in the future, Senior Ryan Mendoza responded, “it opened my eyes to different cultures and allowed me to see things differently.” 

Learning Chinese at CCHS not only opens your eyes to different cultures as Ryan said, but has the possibility to change your life. Senior Christian Aquino, has decided with the influence of our Chinese program to Major in Chinese and International Relations.  While digging deeper into the beauty of Chinese culture, our Chinese students are thankful to say that being a part of the Chinese program is quite special.

“I value the experience I was given and want to pass it onto the next students that’ll come to Cathedral and take Chinese,” said Christian Aquino ‘22.

Whether it’s Chinese 1, 2, 3, 4, or AP, all classes are uniquely built to learn not only the language but participate in events that cultivate you. Additionally, being a smaller foreign language department, students grow to have a unique bond with one another. Our current AP class has the same students that have been together since freshman year. 

“I just love the family atmosphere,” says Ryan Mendoza ‘22. 

Being with the same classmates since freshman year not only forms the long lasting bonds CCHS strives for but a lovely environment where people can feel welcomed. Our students are fortunate to learn under Ms. Liu who challenges and values students. 

Although they are often overlooked on campus, the NCHS stresses they’re doing a great job considering their 7 members. Their love for Chinese culture is what really triumphs all. 

“My favorite thing about the Chinese program is our ability to learn more about Chinese culture and be surrounded by friends and an awesome teacher,” said Ryan Mendoza ‘22.