Understanding the Differences in Addressing University Colleagues and Mentors in Chinese and English
In academic environments， addressing individuals like seniors， supervisors， and teachers using appropriate titles is crucial. Here are the common terms used in Chinese and their direct English equivalents:
1. 师兄/师姐 (Senior Apprentice)
In English， the notion of “师兄/师姐” is not directly translated. However， “senior apprentice” or “senior schoolfellow” can convey a similar meaning.
2. 学长/学姐 (Senior Classmate)
English does not have a specific word that encapsulates the concept of “学长/学姐.” Instead， phrases like “we’re majoring in the same subject” or “he’s a senior/junior in my department” can be used.
3. 导师 (Supervisor)
“Supervisor” is the direct English equivalent of “导师.”
4. 辅导员 (Counsellor)
“Counsellor” provides guidance and support to students， similar to the role of a “辅导员.”
5. 助教 (Tutor/Assistant)
“Tutor” or “assistant” are used to describe individuals who provide extra help to students， matching the role of a “助教.”
6. 讲师 (Lecturer)
“Lecturer” is used to address university instructors who deliver lectures.
7. 教授 (Professor)
The title “professor” denotes a more senior academic position.
8. 硕士生导师 (Supervisor of Postgraduate/Graduate Supervisor)
This term refers to the academic responsible for guiding postgraduate students.
9. 博士生导师 (Doctoral Supervisor/PhD Supervisor)
A “doctoral supervisor” or “PhD supervisor” guides and supervises students pursuing doctoral degrees.
Keep in mind that informal expressions like “bro” or “dude” are common among close acquaintances in English-speaking academic settings， indicating familiarity rather than a formal designation.