Kaili Huang

Program:

• PGS: Exploring the Business Environment in China

Ask me about...

• Gaining insight on cross cultural influences

• Traveling with people you don't know

• Deciding between abroad opportunity vs internship opportunity

• Building lasting relationships and bonds

My Experience Abroad:

As a business student, I recognized the critical importance of acquiring a global perspective. This trip provided me with invaluable insights into the ways Chinese businesses navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities within the current economic landscape. The complex dynamics of U.S.-China relations, particularly the ongoing trade war, play a significant role in shaping interactions between businesses from both nations. Experiencing firsthand how Chinese companies operate and respond to these circumstances opened my eyes to the vast potential for collaboration and mutual economic growth. This aspect is particularly intriguing to me, given my concentration in Public Policy, as it highlights the intersection of international trade and policy-making.

Additionally, during the trip, we spent an entire day visiting factories in the suburban areas of Shenzhen, an experience that was profoundly eye-opening. Observing the production processes up close gave me a new awareness of the products I use back home in the United States. Before this trip, my view of businesses was primarily centered around CEOs and C-suite executives. However, the factory visits highlighted the essential role of factory workers in maintaining business operations. Their hard work and dedication form the backbone of the industry, a perspective I had not fully appreciated until now. This experience has deepened my understanding of the entire business ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of every individual's contribution to a company's success.

Other Highlights:

• Climbing the Great Wall of China in the perfect weather and seeing the view that looked like it came out of a drawing

• Visiting manufacturing factories that export to the US and becoming more mindful of the items I use and how it was produced

• Shopping for capybara stuffed animals during our 1 hour free time at a Chinese mall (the 21 person group bought 28 capybaras)

• Long bus rides and getting to know each other