Recently, video clips of Zhang Jianna, a sanitation (环卫) worker, directing foreigners have gone viral online. Her 1 English and confident 2 in the clips have deeply impressed the viewers, 3 curiosity about how an ordinary-looking sanitation worker 4 such impressive English skills.
Behind the sensation 5 a decade-long journey of persistence. In 2012, Zhang Jianna took on the role of a sanitation worker in the embassy area of Sanlitun in Beijing's Chaoyang district. A special 6 while working has motivated Zhang to learn English by herself, a pursuit she continues with determination to this day.
"My goal is quite simple. I just want to help whenever someone is in need, whether asking for directions, inquiring about visa 7 , or telling them about the embassy area I am responsible for," said Zhang.
Thus, at the age of 40, Zhang has embarked on a personal 8 . Without a tutor, she began learning English from her children's textbooks, starting with basic words and phrases commonly used for giving 9 .
With no fixed study hours, she utilized every 10 moment. While others rested, she memorized vocabulary and practiced speaking. Upon arriving home after work, she would write down new knowledge points and 11 them until she thoroughly understood them. Over the years, she filled over a dozen notebooks with her notes. Her 12 posed her biggest challenge. "13 is key to learning English. Learn step by step, learn every day," Zhang said.
When asked about the greatest 14 of learning English, Zhang emphasizes self-confidence. "Growing up in a rural area without a college education, I sometimes feared being looked down upon. But every time I help a 15 in English, I feel incredibly accomplished."
