My friend, Pat, has a problem and he doesn't know what to do. He wishes me to give him advice.

His family are moving to Shanghai because his mum has got a job there. His parents have said that he can either go with them or stay in Hong Kong with his aunt. What do I think he should do? (Pl. write as a e-mail.)

Dear Pat,

Hi, I know how you feel but frankly you shouldn't be too worried about it. Truly speaking, Shanghai and Hong Kong are big cities. If I were you, I would certainly have difficulties in deciding which place I would settle down in future. Well, let us discuss them in detail.

There are advantages and disadvantages for both of the options. Let us say the good points first. If you choose to stay in Hong Kong with your aunt, you will have more freedom. Your aunt looks after you, she will never tighten to control you. As a result, you will be more independent, try to make decision by yourself, take good care of yourself. In other words, your personal quality is improved. You will be more mature, smarter yet happier. Moreover, studying in Hong Kong is free. You know, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has launched a 12-year free education since 2007. It is noted that the qualifications obtained are accredited globally, that is, the Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination and the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination. However, I think there are two disadvantages. If you stay in Hong Kong, you will miss your parents. You will feel lonely. Do you think so?

On the other hand, if you move to Shanghai with your family and your parents, you will move to a great city. China is rising in the world nowadays. You will encounter widener exposure on culture, code of practice and policy of China. There are more potential opportunities, better job and business chances ahead of you. In addition, you learn Putonghua. It increases your proficiency of career to communicate with business partners and colleagues. Your mum and dad will take care of you carefully. Although they will keep an eye on you, they have deep concern about you. If I were you, I would not reckon that I got less freedom. By the way, you will meet new friends, dropping in good network and social networking in China. Your career is bright full of opportunities. You know, China is a city of 'guan see' or better say 'relationship', and you will learn much from your friends. However, I think there are two disadvantages. The English standard in China is lower than Hong Kong. The international school's fee is very expensive, which is about ten thousand yuans per year. You may adjust your adaptation in Shanghai diffficultly. There is culture challenge setting in front of you such as a different city, school, teacher , as well as classmates.

In view of above reasons, there is one point you must clarify beforehand. If your parents could afford the high school fee, if I were you, I would choose to move to Shanghai. You may get good general knowledge and common sense. If you stay with your parents, you will feel more comfortable and reliable. I always know you're good and respect your parents very much. So much encouragement received from your mum and dad do surely enlighten your hope tremendously. They love you. In such circumstances you will be more successful and happier in the days and years to come.

Hoping the above suggestions will help you!

Regards,
Mary