A man from the U.S. came to China two years ago with plans to become an English teacher. On its own, this is a common enough story. However, what sets 32-year-old David apart is what he sacrificed to do this and why.

Born in San Francisco, California, David had a successful photography studio and a career in the film industry before he gave that up to move to China. Heavily influenced by kungfu movies, David became fascinated with Chinese culture early on. He even hung a Chinese flag on the wall of his bedroom, covering the remaining free surfaces with posters of Chinese kungfu stars.

At the age of 18, David made up his mind to teach English in China. However, in the intervening years, David built a successful career in Hollywood and New York. Still, he never gave up his childhood dreams; in fact, he devoted most of his free time to teaching English in Chinese communities in the U.S.

In order to become an English teacher in China, David spent a long time studying Chinese culture and customs online. Then, about two years ago, his application to teach in China was approved. David resolutely gave up his studio and his job; he flew to Chengdu in southwestern China's Sichuan province to start a new life.

"Different languages are not the barrier of communication," said David, adding that many of his friends in China don't speak English, but that they are still able to remain close. When communicating with locals, David relies on body language to explain his thoughts and desires.

As a lover of spicy foods, David is a true fan of spicy Sichuan snacks. In fact, he considers himself a Sichuan native to some extent. Basketball, music and photography are what David does during his spare time. He also uses the guitar to bond with his students, encouraging the pupils in his classes to be comfortable and energetic. According to David, teaching English in China is a very interesting occupation.