She declined job offers in Shanghai and Shenzhen, choosing instead to teach at Chongqing Normal University's special education department - the only one in West China for students who are hearing-impaired.

Her rigorous approach to academia and research won her recognition at the school and it took her only two years to become an associate professor and a mentor for postgraduate students.

She has adapted quickly to the different teaching environment in Minnesota and embraces the opportunity to learn about special education in the US.

"The most interesting thing is the huge difference between Chinese and American sign languages," she said.

"For instance, the Chinese sign for 'leader' looks very similar to the American sign for 'rooster'."

Students often greet Zheng with the Chinese sign for her name, "China" or "I like you".

"It is fun and we really get along," she said.

Kathy Johnson, director of the SCSU Confucius Institute, has studied and researched deaf education in China for 16 years. She decided to initiate a special program to encourage Sino-US cultural exchanges among individuals with disabilities.

But finding a qualified Chinese teacher to work at the Metro Deaf School proved to be a challenge. Zheng was introduced to Johnson through a mutual friend.

"Doctor Zheng is one of the most intelligent, thoughtful and reflective professors I have met," Johnson said in an e-mail to China Daily.

"They (the students) were so engaged and so excited to learn new Chinese signs and see how they differ from American Sign Language. Their eyes lit up and the smiles on their faces while learning is testimony to how the students are so appreciative of this opportunity."

Thanks to Zheng's influence, the school also plans to hold a celebration to mark Chinese New Year.

tanyingzi@chinadaily.com.cn