Famous central China Hunan Satellite TV singer and presenter Li Xiang is in the headlines again, this time, on the podium at a normal university as a guest professor.

Li Xiang, a famous central China Hunan Satellite TV singer and presenter, gives a lecture in Sichuan Normal University in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Proince Wedneday, December 7,2006. [Huaxi City Daily ]

Li , who just got divorced from her bigwig husband Li Houlin, was officially retained as a guest professor at the Cinema-Television School of southwest China's Sichuan Normal University after giving an hour-long lecture, reported the Chengdu-based Huaxi City Daily on Wednesday.

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Though an experienced presenter at many high-profile events, Li appeared nervous during her maiden university lecture. She mispronounced a word, and kept apologizing throughout the speech, according to the paper.

"I am really nervous, and my heart is beating fast. I have never been a teacher before. I am here just to share my experiences and feelings, hoping it might help you somehow. So please call me Xiang Xiang or Sister Xiang instead of teacher," Li was quoted by the paper as saying.

"Though still in her twenties, Li has been a presenter for ten years, and has accumulated rich experience through hosting the 'Joy Camp' and 'Super Girls', both front-running entertainment programs in China, and up to a thousand galas. Considering her unique style and specialty in presenting and broadcasting, we think it is appropriate that we invited her to be a guest professor," said Luo Gonghe, president of the Cinema-Television School, addressing doubts that the students would not think Li competent for the job.

Among the ten students who were interviewed on the spot, five were confident of Li's qualification, citing her work experience and social influence as factors, while some still had reservations.

"The university authorities and students have different ideas, so it might be better if we didn't say anything." a student surnamed Wang said.

"As long as Li does a good job, we can accept her. I hope it is not all about hype and self-promotion," said an unidentified student.

Li was offered similar positions two years ago at several institutions, but this is the first time she has accepted the offer.

According to Luo, Li can be paid 800 to 1500 yuan (US$100 to - US$187) for every lecture she gives to 600 students, but she did the first for free. He would not say if Li would charge for future lectures.

"Ten years into my career, I have a lot to share, my successes, my failures, and my precious experience. I hope to exchange ideas with the students and listen to their opinions." Li told the paper.
"I know there are doubts and objections, and I understand them but will not pay any attention. I just want to share and be myself," she said.

On the Internet, some netizens questioned Li's qualifications while others called for tolerance and open-mindedness when it comes to education.

Li will give one lecture for every semester, or two for a school year, Luo said.