Spring Break '11 - PhilaU MBA Students Head to China
By: Steve Kokko
For Spring Break 2011, three MBA students working in the Philadelphia University Athletics Department hopped a flight to China to learn about international business practices and experience a new and interesting culture. I (Steve Kokko) along with Rose Schmitt and Erica Massenburg, ventured through three cities over the 10 day trip- stopping at several historic landmarks and visiting five different businesses.
Our adventures began in the city of Beijing. A visit to the Forbidden City and hiking the Great Wall were highlights this stop. Our first taste of authentic Chinese cuisine was an eye-opening experience for some, but was entertaining nonetheless. Everyone was excited to try to barter at the Silk City market, where almost any brand that comes to mind can be found (authenticity not guaranteed). Once the day’s schedule was complete, the students of PhilaU sampled the local nightlife before calling it a day.
The corporate visits in Beijing consisted of presentations by Johnson & Johnson, KPMG and SAP. Each of these visits afforded us and the rest of the MBA students the opportunity to ask questions about how each company operates in the unique Chinese business world and how their operations in the country contribute to the company’s overall strategy.
After our stay in Beijing, we boarded the plane heading south to the ancient city of Guangzhou. Once on the ground, we quickly found our guide and headed to another authentic Chinese meal. From there the group checked-in to the famous White Swan Hotel located on the Pearl River.
Our business in Guangzhou took us to the Nike Shoetown factory where thousands of athletic shoes are produced every day. Our presenters took us on a fascinating tour of the facility where we saw the meticulous hands-on work that goes into the fabrication of a pair of shoes. We were then afforded the opportunity to test out our skills on the sewing machines to see if we had what it takes to be a Shoetown employee. So far, no one has been called up for a job.
One final corporate visit landed us at the supply chain city of Luen Thai. The meeting gave the group more exposure to the immense manufacturing business in China, this time apparel was the main focus. The lives of a modern day factory worker in China were played out in front of us as thousands of employees moved from living quarters to working areas.
After a brief stay in Guangzhou, the PhilaU team charted off to the great city of Hong Kong. Despite a rainy welcome, we trekked up one of the great peaks of the city to enjoy a five-star meal at the Pearl on the Peak Restaurant. This marked the end of the trip in China and was a great send off. It gave us time to reflect on the past few days, what we had seen and what we had learned. I had a great time on this trip and look forward to exploring other parts of the world soon.
