- March 26, 2014
- 11:15 pm
- Mary Ann McGrath
- no comments
IMBA Students in Asia
Our Intercontinental MBA Students have begun their third foreign residency this week in Beijing. It is a long trip to the other side of the globe and our first days were spent learning our new environment and fighting to overcome initial jet lag. Everyone was struck by what a wonderful resource the Beijing Center is for the student coming from abroad. The Anton Library of Chinese Studies contains English books on almost any topic related to China. In addition, it is a treasure trove of Chinese antiquities and a quiet and beautiful space for study and reflection.
Our two weeks here will be filled with study and exploration. In addtion to coursework, we have local speakers on the Chinese history and philosophy in addition to talks on the economy, political environment and financial system. We are also visiting important cultural sights and businesses.
We will be traveling and studying in Asia for five weeks. Our first priority is to establish a routine and to observe and adjust to what is “normal” here. A first shock for many is that mattresses are extremely firm — similar to sleeping on a box spring. Another is the air quality. After an initial few days of “not too bad”, we are experiencing a day of almost zero visibility. I am confident that this will improve, but it is a phenomenon that everyone should witness for a day to appreciate. On a positive note, we are finding the food delicious and varied. In addition, it is quite reasonably priced. A steaming bowl of noodle soup is under $3; a generously-portioned dinner at a nearby Korean Barbeque is around $10. We are doing our best to taste everything, and we have found nothing to date we do not enjoy.
As we proceed through our trip, the students and I will be updating our experiences and sharing comments on this blog. My hope is that you will enjoy following our explorations and include your own comments and questions.
Mary Ann