Spring break offers alternative adventure

While a large number of students spent spring break soaking up Florida sun, a group of 20 Kelley School of Business students and two business professors spent their vacations soaking up Chinese culture.

As a part of the Kelley’s Emerging Economies class, students were given the opportunity to spend 10 days in Shanghai and Hangzhou, China, experiencing everything from Chinese food to touring large businesses and
universities.

“There was certainly a bit of culture shock the first couple of days we were there, but at the same time Shanghai was very westernized,” senior Sarah Capps said.
“Shanghai was extremely big and really made New York City look fairly small.”

Because the trip was centered on Chinese business, the group toured native companies like Wahaha Beverage Company, the largest beverage company in China, and more well-known American and international companies such as HSBC and
Whirlpool.

Many members of the group came away with the impression that Chinese companies have the mind-set that every aspect of business is centered on doing what is best for China and the people.

“Everything companies do seems to be for the people as companies are very focused on giving back as well as going green and benefiting China,” Julia Bonnett  said.
In regards to food, Capps said she thought everyone on the trip was an adventurous eater and tried new things.

“Every time we sat down to eat as a group, they served us meals that had about 20 courses so it was hard to pace ourselves,” Bonnett said. “We all tried new things. I tried eel, but I was not too fond of it.”

Despite being approximately 1,700 miles away from the epicenter of the large earthquake that struck Japan, the group’s plans to get home were delayed three days as they were slated to fly into the Tokyo airport.

Because of this, the group was able to experience more of the Chinese culture and toured the Shanghai Museum and a local Chinese home.

“The Chinese family was really hospitable despite not speaking English,” said Dawn New, lecturer in business communications at the Kelley School of Business. “They were really excited to see us and fed us dumplings and Chinese candies. It was just a great experience.”

Although the group members said they fell behind in their classes because of being stuck, the trip was still deemed a success.

“I had some catching up to do, but having those extra three days was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Capps said.

“It was definitely a great experience, and I would really urge anyone who is interested in experiencing another country to pursue the class because it was one of the best experiences I have had in college.”