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The Chinese Language Institute (CLI) is located in Guilin, Guangxi, China. The institute was founded in 2009 by Robert and Bradford Fried, two American brothers from Vienna, Virginia. The institute was created as a means of teaching Mandarin Chinese language and culture through language immersion.

History
While working toward a Bachelor's degree at Virginia Tech, Robert became frustrated with traditional classroom instruction, so he began self-teaching with the assistance of tutors. When visiting his brother, Bradford, in Guilin in 2007, Robert found that direct interaction with Chinese natives improved his Mandarin faster than traditional learning methods. After graduating from Virginia Tech, Robert partnered with his brother to offer others an opportunity to learn by immersion. They established the Chinese Language Institute as their headquarters.

University Partners
CLI is officially affiliated with Guangxi Normal University in Guilin and offers sister courses and transferable academic credits through the university. CLI also partners with Virginia Tech to facilitate the Virginia Tech China Sustainability Initiative.

Programs

 * Immersion Program focuses on Mandarin Chinese language and culture learning through immersion and one-on-one courses.
 * Study Tours take students and teachers on learning tours throughout China and include site visits, language courses, and academic lectures.
 * Teach English in China program helps teachers find placement in local schools.