- – Jenny Thingshung
EKHON| UKHRUL: Christin Thingshung, a native of Hungpung village in Ukhrul District, Manipur, found herself at a crossroads between a secure government job and an entrepreneurial path. However, her Advanced Diploma in French from St. Stephen’s College, New Delhi and Master’s degree in French from English and Foreign Language University, proved to be a game-changer. She secured a coveted role as a ‘Maître de Langue Anglais’ at Grenoble Alpes University in France for a year contract and renewable for another year. She teaches communication and culture to Master’s students, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Christin began her new journey on September 1, 2024.
Speaking to EKHON, Christin Thingshung shared that after a year of uncertainty, she discovered French as a gateway to new opportunities. “I’m thrilled to have made the right choice in pursuing French, and I’m grateful for where it has taken me,’ she said. Christin emphasized the importance of self-investment, stating, ‘I believe in investing in oneself to ultimately give back to others.”
Christin’s French journey began in Pre-University in Karnataka, where she excelled despite being the only student without a teacher. However, it wasn’t until she assisted a friend in Delhi, who struggled with French as a compulsory subject, that Christin reconsidered her own potential in the language. She recalled, ‘I helped my friend, and then it dawned on me – why not pursue French myself?”
Christin’s fascination with French led her to enroll in a certificate course at St. Stephens College, Delhi, which she extended to a 3-year program, equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in French. To support herself, she balanced part-time and full-time jobs, and her family’s assistance. Her dedication culminated in a Master’s degree in French from the English and Foreign Language University in 2021.
Despite her accomplishments, Christin’s journey in France was not without its hurdles. She faced the daunting task of starting anew, navigating adulthood, and living apart from her loved ones, friends, and familiar surroundings. Christin candidly shared that achieving financial and emotional independence was one of the most significant challenges she encountered in France, forcing her to rely on her resilience and determination.
Ironically, it was an English Teaching Assistant position that brought Christin to France, securing a two-term contract from 2022-2024 (7 months contract each) at two schools in Arcachon, near Bordeaux. She discovered that teaching English offered a more viable career path, as French educational institutions prioritize foreign language instruction. During her two-year tenure, Christin developed a passion for teaching English, finding it a rewarding and sustainable profession.
Teaching English to non-natives is about understanding their culture, language, and perspective,” Christin said. “It’s a big challenge, especially at basic or medium levels, to grasp their unique backgrounds and effectively teach English.
Prior to her move to France, Christin founded the Enchanté Institute of Foreign Languages in Imphal, aiming to foster a community of language enthusiasts and demonstrate the potential of foreign language careers to her community.
Reflecting on her journey thus far, Christin cited Gandhi’s words, ‘Satisfaction lies in the effort.’ She’s proud of her progress, knowing the hard work that got her there. Though never easy, it’s all been worth for the young Tangkhul girl with big dreams.
