Elon MBA students
visit China as part of their
International Business course
Elon
MBA students, led by Dean John Burbridge and Dr. Bill
Burpitt, visited China during Winter Term. Our class made
visits to modern and traditional Chinese businesses; stayed
at five-star hotels in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou (Canton),
and Hong Kong; and observed Chinese artists making jade,
jewelry, and cloisonné, just as their ancestors did during
the Qin Dynasty.
We
went there to gain first-hand knowledge of the Chinese
culture, learn how the reputed economic power of the
21st century operates, understand how
globalization will impact U.S. businesses, and to have
fun! The trip easily exceeded our expectations!
The
Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Ming Tombs, Victoria
Peak, and many other must-see attractions were on our
itinerary. Besides that, our group had private audiences with
the U.S. Embassy, the American Consulate General, and the
Director of North Carolina’s Asia-Pacific office.
Educators at world-renowned universities shared their
insights with us about China’s past, its current state
of affairs, and what to expect in the decades to come.
We
visited several different firms, including China
Daily – China’s foremost English language
newspaper; in Bejing, RF Micro Devices – the premier
provider of radio frequency integrated circuits for wireless
markets; in Shanghai, GKN – a major auto parts
manufacturer; in Dong-Guan City, Sintai Furniture Corp.
– the world’s leading producer of wooden outdoor
market umbrellas; in Hong Kong, VF Corp – the largest
seller of apparel on the planet; also in Hong Kong, Li and
Fung – a supply chain management firm that touches many
of the products that we use each day. These visits gave
us an opportunity to see a wide range of management styles as
well as both Chinese and foreign-owned firms.
We
saw first hand how China must overcome severe pollution,
poverty and other serious political issues. Medical
care, health insurance, land ownership issues and
unemployment are topics of growing concern in this rapidly
developing economy. Despite these issues, foreign investment
into China continues to explode as businesses all over the
world prepare to compete for the Chinese
consumer.
Of
course, there was ample time to enjoy the country’s
unique culture, savor authentic Chinese food, shop the vast
street markets, and experience each city’s night
life.
The
entire experience was first rate! We strongly recommend that
all Elon MBA students take advantage of this kind of
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!!!
MBA
students Ed Ames and Beth Tuller
