I think it's safe to say that Aston fits the mold of chain schools...local conditions vary a lot with the owner and managers of the local franchise. In Aston's case my problems went all the way to the top of the organization, and I'm not sure an organization can be better than its leadership.

I definitely agree with KJ's observation that despite what they will tell you, the "Western-owned/Western managed" schools are often no better than the ones run by Chinese. Indeed, I think I've had far more trouble and heartbreak from the "Western-owned" schools than I've had from the homeys...and believe me, that's saying a hell of a lot.

I wouldn't go so far as KJ's advice to avoid private schools altogether...although if you can handle the lower pay of public schools it's not completely terrible advice. I do advise, however, staying away from the CHAIN schools. There's a huge body of unhappiness out there trailing them.

Scott, if you'd like you can PM me at spamjiaozi@yahoo.com (what the hell; it's plastered all over my own site anyway...) and I will fill you in completely on...the lovely city of Suzhou.