My international experience to date is moderate. I have been to a few European nations including Spain and Portugal for two weeks and Italy for two weeks. In these countries, I visited various museums, churches, and famous landmarks (like the Coliseum for example). I have also been to a few islands such as Jamaica, Turks and Caicos, and the Bahamas.

I want to go to China because it is a powerful, upcoming nation with interesting history and unique culture. I want to see the way firms work in one of the most powerful nations in the world. Also, the industry of smartphones is very intriguing because it is such a prominent part of today’s society. In addition to China’s industries, I want to learn about the ancient history, visiting sites like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. China’s unique culture is also fun to learn about such as their cuisine.

I think the main professional work differences I will experience will be that in China the workers are more efficient than America’s workers. Also, I expect China values hard work more than America does. Because of this I expect work ethic to be different there. I think that the Chinese may work longer hours and everyday whereas Americans will work 40 hours 5 days a week.

I think the main cultural differences I will experience will be the food and the people’s customs. I have heard the cuisine is unique, with specialties like crickets. Also, I expect the people are very different in that the population is not extremely diverse like in America. I expect that the people in China have more respect for each other than in America.

I think the main political differences I will experience will be that China does not have as much freedom as America. I know that China has a different political system than America, therefore they have different rights and laws. I think a big difference is that the Chinese have less free speech than Americans have.

I think the students I meet in my country will be intelligent and interesting to talk to. China emphasizes education so I expect the students there to be well-informed. Also, I think they will have a unique perspective, as they have lived in China. I expect they will be disciplined and talented because I have heard that China also emphasizes discipline.

I think the major differences in living conditions will be the environment conditions and the population. I expect that China has higher pollution because I know they have lower environmental regulations on their factories. This pollution may lead to more smog, therefore less clean air than America. Also, I think that the Chinese cities will have a higher population density than American cities, because of their massive population.

I think the most enjoyable experience I will have during this trip will be bonding with my peers, as well as visiting a place with amazing culture. I’m excited to have a mix of business and engineering students because I can learn from my peers. I am not only excited to learn from them but also form long-lasting friendships. Along with bonding with the group, I think visiting a country I have not yet been to will be fun and exciting. Visiting places like the Terra-cotta warriors or local markets or trying new foods will all be unreal and unforgettable experiences that I will cherish forever.