CRCC Asia - Internships in Beijing

Join CRCC Asia on an exciting internship in Beijing, China! As an intern in China, you will have the unique opportunity to explore this economically soaring nation, and become completely immersed in Chinese culture and history. The skills and knowledge you will gain during your internship in Beijing are unmatched and will certainly give you an edge in the job market. Companies and individuals across the globe are lining up to do business in China: it is without question the most exhilarating, challenging and fast-growing nation in which to work.

Five reasons to intern with us!

On-going support! CRCC Asia interns can be ensured that our staff will be available 24/7 to provide support and address any concerns you may have during your internship in Beijing.

Options! We have a multitude of sectors you can work in, including law, PR, finance, business administration, and much more! Whatever you career interest may be, you can find an internship that fits your interests and needs with CRCC Asia in Beijing!

CRCC Asia provides pre-departure support to all of our interns. With offices located in London, San Francisco, and Shawnee, you can reach our office with any questions you may have regarding your internship.

CRCC Asia has an extensive network with firms throughout China; we visit every firm before placing any interns and have our own well-staffed office in Beijing, should you need any assistance during your internship in Beijing.

CRCC Asia has sent over 2,000 interns to China over the past five years, and has gained an excellent reputation as the industry leader for internship placements in China. Begin your experience in Beijing!

Reviews

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294 of 535 people found this review helpful
The Experience of a Lifetime!!

Witnessing the economic recession in the United States I knew that I needed something to set me apart from all of the other soon to be college graduates looking for a job. Learning about China from the news and from my dad's business experiences there I knew that it would be the perfect location. I heard about CRCC Asia through my university's careerlink, I did some research, and decided to apply on the spot. Within days I was called for a phone interview, and my parents were able to get in contact with the US CRCC Asia representative to discuss safety concerns.

The excitement began as soon as I was met in Beijing airport by a CRCC Asia representative and taken to the bus to meet the other interns! We were taken to our accomodations which were far nicer than anything I had expected, and all of the interns were quick to start getting to know eachother and our new home.

Work was amazing. I had an accounting internship with a Taxation Agents organisation and they were quick to welcome me with open arms. I met with several different department heads and even got to have a long and very informative meeting with the Chief Partner, who welcomed me back to China in the future with a job opportunity. They were very interested in giving me the full Chinese experience when it came to business and sightseeing, with my mentor taking me and some of my CRCC Asia intern friends to the Great Wall.

My month long experience in China was definitely too short. The people I met, the memories I made, and the knowledge I gained will never be forgotten. I am still in contact with several other CRCC Asia interns now that we have been home for a little while, and I fully intend on coming back to China hopefully within the near future.
My university, the University of Arkansas, has a recent partnership with CRCC Asia and I am excited to be able to work with them to help expand the campus' awareness about this amazing opportunity. In return for funding the trip I am going to be recording some podcasts for the Walton College of Business website. Being able to share this experience with as many people as possible is something that I've wanted to do since the second I boarded the plane home.

I would recommend CRCC Asia to anyone looking for a complete cultural experience. It will be a decision you will not regret and an experience with memories to last a lifetime.

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Submitted by kristenhowell on 10/19/2011
Reviewer's Bio:    Female    |   Age: 19-24    |   Fayetteville, AR    |    Novice Traveler    |    University   

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211 of 451 people found this review helpful
Awesome time in Beijing!

The work was tough, but worth it! I made a lot of good friends from all over the world and had the time of my life. I wish we could have all stayed longer!

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Submitted by Biodiversity on 10/19/2011
Reviewer's Bio:    Male    |   Age: 19-24    |   Eden Prairie, MN    |    Experienced Traveler    |    University   

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172 of 389 people found this review helpful
Fun and a learning experience

The entire experience was a ton of fun and a great learning and growth experience. I learned a ton of chinese culture and the other interns on the program were great to learn from because they came from a variety of backgrounds. Some internships were better than others but everyone was placed with an internship that suited their skills

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Submitted by lfreeman717 on 10/19/2011
Reviewer's Bio:    Female    |   Age: 19-24    |   Chestnut Hill, MA    |    Pro Traveler    |    Tanta   

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237 of 513 people found this review helpful
Once in a Lifetime Opportunity

If you are looking for a unique experience then look no further. CRCC Asia will offer you a complete package in regards to real world experience. Looking at the current global market, it is safe to realize that future employers look to hire future leaders with international exposure.

CRCC Asia - Beijing Experience Intern Program offered day to day work experience in current leading job markets and professions. The additional focus of one-on-one mentoring and performance presentations, your internship adviser will provide the necessary coaching in order for your complete success.

The additional focus on the cultural aspects of Beijing and the Chinese people will provide insight to their thoughts and mannerisms. This is provided by the great and interactive CRCC Asia Staff. The programs and workshops provided by them would allow you to succeed in any workplace you choose to intern with.

One of the great highlights of your experience is the amount of contact, networks, and friends you will make. These people will impact your day to day experience and will continue long after your internship has ended.

The backdrop of the city is an additional highlight. Living within this mega metropolis, Beijing's attractions in and outside of the city walls would fill anybody's photo collection.

CRCC Asia - Beijing experience is an experience of a lifetime. No other experience can compare.

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Submitted by Carlos R. on 10/19/2011
Reviewer's Bio:    Male    |   Age: 25-30    |   Chicago, Illinois    |    Novice Traveler    |    University   

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240 of 452 people found this review helpful
June in Beijing

Every night before I went to sleep (in my enormous king-size bed) I would send emails to my friends and loved ones back home in New York. I told them about my day and what I saw and I can honestly say there is no more surreal feeling than what I experienced in telling people I had been to either the Great Wall or the Forbidden City. It was almost as if it weren't real until I wrote it down and told them. I found it very difficult to believe that I was not only in China but actually living there and working for RenRen, the facebook of China. Awake by 7am, I looked forward to work every day. My job provided me with the experience, that has made my transgression into my current internship at Morgan Stanley infinitely easier. I felt prepared and confident on my first day. After a long day of work I hopped on the subway and made my way back home where I was greeted by friends and quickly ushered to leave for dinner. "Family dinner" as we liked to call it managed to make my time in Beijing that much more enjoyable. The night life in Beijing was like nothing I had ever seen and I will leave it at that...but if you like clubs "Banana Baby Face" will be your second home. If you're questioning whether or not this program is for you, contact an alumni and try to set up a time where you can talk with them. That's where you'll get the most valuable information. Good Luck and Zai Jian!

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Submitted by abcd1234 on 10/20/2011
Reviewer's Bio:    Male    |   Age: 19-24    |   New York, New York    |    Experienced Traveler    |    Montego Bay   

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193 of 413 people found this review helpful
Pick CRCC Asia for your Internship Abroad

Graduation has been sneaking up on me and I was feeling the pressure from my advisors and peers to land a big kid job. I applied for the marketing internship in Beijing through CRCC Asia thinking that there was slim to no chance that a girl from small town Arkansas would be selected. Before I knew it, I was applying, interviewing, and accepting the internship.
Working in Beijing during the summer has been one of the most challenging and exciting experiences of my life. I gained knowledge, experience, and an advantage against my fellow graduates.
Take the plunge and go to China for your internship. CRCC Asia was a great program to work with. From the crash course in all things China to the social events to make friends with your fellow comrades, I always felt that the CRCC team had my best interest in mind.
My only parting advice is to opt for the longer internship because one month is just not enough to fully immerse yourself into the Beijing lifestyle.

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Submitted by rickshawkate on 10/20/2011
Reviewer's Bio:    Female    |   Age: 19-24    |   Fayetteville, AR    |    Novice Traveler    |    University   

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286 of 468 people found this review helpful
Overall experience great, internship so-so

I have little to complain about, the lodgings were great, the staff incredible. I personally didn't feel like I had the most fulfilling internship. I was given little to do, and the work I was given wasn't particularly interesting. I don't know how much I'll be able to talk it up in a future interview. Talking to other interns, I don't think I stand alone in this regard. That's not to say every intern had the same experience. Some people had extremely rewarding internships, where they were given a lot of responsibilities and had the chance to develop some useful professional skills. Despite my own experience, I would absolutely recommend this to friends.

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Submitted by akoala on 10/20/2011
Reviewer's Bio:    Female    |   Age: 25-30    |   Hilo, Hawaii    |    Pro Traveler    |    Bahamas   

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209 of 417 people found this review helpful
Rick Purvis Beijing 2011 (August - October)

I, Rick Purvis, was on a two-month internship in Beijing, China organized by CRCC Asia. I worked for Deli Solar, a subsidiary of China Solar and Clean Energy Solutions.

Firstly, the highlights as I do not have many difficulties to share. I prefer to learn from mistakes and to take experiences as they come, no regrets.

The CRCC staff were absolutely amazing. If I ever wanted advice (wedding presents), directions, or help to understand the Chinese characters on the washing machine they were always there for me. What stood out the most about the staff are their personalities and understanding. They knew we were in Beijing to work but also enjoy the city and were happy to accommodate. For me, I felt they were a fellow intern who wanted to enjoy each others company. The extra activities, school visits, and business talks (Gung Ho Pizza aEU" is the best and most useful talk IaEU(tm)ve had, thank you). I lived in a Shaungjing hotel with 100+ fellow interns and roomed with the one and only Italian gentleman known as, Emanuele. The guy is a legend.

The locals I interacted with were very welcoming and especially helpful. It was good to see even with language difficulties we could laugh at the situation. Some comedic situations are universal. The social scene I found to be amazing (especially coming from little olaEU(tm) NZ). It is extremely forgiving and relaxed with rules etc. I miss the bars and restaurants scene in the Hutongs. Beijing provided a great mix between classy bars and areas where you just want to have some fun. The fun of the Sanlitun bars/clubs matches well with the vibrant food stalls in the same area. The atmosphere here is unique with so much going on, food, drinking, and with different nationalities mingling.

I thoroughly enjoyed the people I worked with at Deli Solar: Patrick (supervisor), Cisily, Serena, and Sunny. The girls were amazing and they were open to helping me understand ChinaaEU(tm)s culture, people, and history. It was fun to work in a new environment to what I am accustomed to and to view different working mentalities and organizational processes. I wouldnaEU(tm)t say I was challenged with the workload, however, there is only so much a company can do for a 2-month intern.

On a more personal note, I could not have asked for better during my time in Beijing. I am naturally a confident person yet this trip as provided me with a greater zest for life, travel, cultures, and experiences. I always felt safe in Beijing because of my own ability to make intelligent decisions, otherwise I was aware of who could help and of emergency contacts (CRCC Asia). Personally, I choose not to be given prior information, I was in China for an experience and I believe in learning from your mistakes. It is part of my journey. I do not have regrets because I made the most of my opportunities and that is all I can ask for. However, when the doctor warns you of becoming sick from the food because your body is not used to it, listen and do take some prescribed medication with you ha. I do expect to return to China someday, it will not be through CRCC because the friends I met, experiences with them, and the aEU~newbieaEU(tm) situation is where I want to leave it. That was the most important time in my life and I want it kept untouched. For those I believe suitable, yes I would advise them to visit China through CRCC in a heartbeat. It was the best time in my life.

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Submitted by Rick Purvis on 10/21/2011
Reviewer's Bio:    Male    |   Age: 19-24    |   Hawkes Bay, New Zealand    |    Novice Traveler    |    Victoria University of Wellington   

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244 of 563 people found this review helpful
Loved it!

It was truly an eye opening experience. I have learned a lot about Chinese customs and culture in general, just by visiting many various sites across Beijing. Every day was a new adventure and I enjoyed every second of it. As far as internship itself, although people at my office were friendly, there was not much to do, other than sending e-mails and researching few things all day long. It all depends on who you intern for, but other than that it was an awesome internship.

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Submitted by rurocket on 10/26/2011
Reviewer's Bio:    Male    |   Age: 19-24    |   Chicago, IL.    |    Experienced Traveler    |    Estonia   

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288 of 531 people found this review helpful
Beijing in August

I Loved my experience with CRCC Asia and the city of Beijing. There were many opportunities to supplement your internship with extra edifying cultural experiences i.e. learning the language or visiting rich cultural sites such as the Great Wall of China. CRCC is very accommodating, if you weren't satisfied with your internship you could be placed with an alternative option. Support from CRCC Asia could have been a little better, when first learning how to access phone usages or similar small activities could have a better experience. Overall, I had a really great time. Met a lot of interesting people and gained a few great friends across the world!

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Submitted by Tasha on 03/10/2012
Reviewer's Bio:    Female    |   Age: 19-24    |   Chicago    |    Novice Traveler    |    East-West University   

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330 of 507 people found this review helpful
CRCC gives you exactly what is promised in the contract

CRCC was invaluable as a means to enter into China for a working-holiday. I had heard that this was one of the most expensive internship programs one could find, but they do the work of finding your job for you and the companies they place you with are very reputable. CRCC provides exactly what is in their contract with you, no more and no less. I found the living accommodations extremely agreeable, we had a new apartment with new furniture and ample space for 2 other flatmates.

On your first day of work, they take you directly to your office via hired van. Watch out, because they do not provide you with transportation to get home from your first day of work, so you feel as if you've been dropped in some random location in China and you have to become a homing pigeon to find your way home. I would recommend taking a taxi home that first day, it is not worth getting lost.

The staff at CRCC are very helpful and they love their jobs. A lot of their plans are communicated through email format, you must check your email daily to keep up with the ever changing plans. They tend to switch locales of events often, so to stay informed I kept in contact with the fellow interns to keep updated when internet was unreliable.

The Mandarin classes offered use a very quick technique of teaching! If you are attentive and take advantage of every class offered, you will learn enough Mandarin to have short conversations and survive in general in one quick month. Note that the Mandarin classes are held in an office that is "off the beaten trail" from the main streets, and I was slightly nervous walking to and from that location at night alone. It is better to meet up with a friend at the subway platform or a specific subway exit and walk together.

I would recommend this to a friend if he/she:
- has never been to Beijing/China/Asia
- does not know the language
- is travelling alone
- is willing to work hard at their internship, as it is not a vacation
- likes Chinese food
- has done other overseas travelling before

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Submitted by Amanda Lee on 03/12/2012
Reviewer's Bio:    Female    |   Age: 19-24    |   Edmonton    |    Experienced Traveler    |    Alberta   

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298 of 666 people found this review helpful
CRCC provides a great starting platform but can be taken much further by your own perseverence.

I spent two months out in Shanghai, the first month having one on one lessons in Business Mandarin. During this month I also realised that my internship was not actually in an area I wanted to gain experience in. Through personal contacts via the Shanghai staff at CRCC, I was not only able to change my internship but interviewed and won a position in a top Chinese Private Equity Firm- I was the first foreigner to work there and recieved invaluable experience in a real Chinese business environment.

Having already lived in China previously, I know the difficultis involved with finding flats, meeting people and getting to know a city by yourself. Whilst CRCC may seem a little expensive it is deffinately value for money as everything including getting a sim card is organised for you- extremley cushy.

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Submitted by Shona Doran on 03/16/2012
Reviewer's Bio:    Female    |   Age: 19-24    |   London, United Kingdom    |    Pro Traveler    |    University of Edinburgh   

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362 of 636 people found this review helpful
Fun Program

In regards to the CRCC Asia internship program I would recommend it. The company is very legitimate and I had a life changing experience while in China. I would recommend any student considering this avenue go for the two month program. This is what I did and some of the other interns that I met who only were there for a month didn't get nearly as much out of it as I did. The first month you are settling in with your company, so the second month is where you really begin to form professional relationships with your colleagues. Another option to throw out there, which I think would really benefit the interns is to participate in the intensive mandarin classes the first month, then go to work the second. By doing this, the interns will be able to settle in quicker because the language barrier will not be as difficult. However, each intern is assigned an English speaking supervisor, so the intern will always be able to communicate with someone in the company.

I really enjoyed my company, but some of the other interns has mixed reviews. Some felt that they weren't utilized as much as they had hoped, but I really think you have to go into it with an open mind, and try and make the best out of each situation. Some companies are better than others, just like here in the states. Also, CRCC does an excellent job if you are not satisfied with your company, helping you find another to finish out your internship.

Overall, I do recommend going with CRCC although it is more costly then going on your own because they do a lot for you. It was nice to be picked up from the airport, and taken to the accommodations. I was assigned roommates that were also starting internships, so I instantly had friends. Also, they place all the interns in the same hotel, so it is very easy to make friends and have people to travel around with. The program also hosts dinners and events with all of the interns to help break the ice while in China. Networking events are also made available each week so that interns can network with other young professionals in China. In addition they are there at anytime of the day if you need a translator, or directions, or help planning trips such as to the Great Wall, etc. Your first day they also host an orientation which briefs you on Chinese culture and they get you set up with the subway and public transportation system as well.

I say anyone with an open mind and ability to adapt to an entirely different culture would really enjoy it. I know I certainly did, and will be going back to China very soon! In addition, since I have been home I have been contacted by several Chinese companies via linked in, interested in employing me, and I received a really great recommendation and it really helped buff up my resume. That I think in itself is a great intangible asset that I obtained from this internship.

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Submitted by mls on 04/01/2012
Reviewer's Bio:    Female    |   Age: 19-24    |   Union Springs, New York    |    Experienced Traveler    |    Roanoke College   

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186 of 366 people found this review helpful
CRCC Asia Beijing

CRCC Asia not only enhanced my business skills but also helped round me as a more adept and cultural individual. Spending my days in the office was a pleasure, I was surrounded by proffesionals that took me with open hands. The work was interesting and the environment as warm and friendly as could be. I couldn't have enjoyed my leasure time more, hanging with other interns from across the globe. We kicked back together at nights and went sight seeing to the most magnificant places during the days. CRCC Asia will with out a doubt be an experience you will never forget.

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Submitted by Ethan Rubin on 08/13/2012
Reviewer's Bio:    Male    |   Age: 19-24    |   Great Neck, New York    |    Experienced Traveler    |    Binghamton University   

Alumni Interviews

  • The forests in China
  • Trek up the Great Wall!
  • Explore China with CRCC Asia
  • Rick with friends in Beijing
  • Natasha and a friend in Beijing, China
  • Carlos at China Expo

Meet Ethan Rubin, CRCC Asia-Beijing alum

Ethan Rubin is from Great Neck, NY. He attends Binghamton University and enjoys extreme sports, traveling, and history.

GO: Why did you decide to intern with CRCC Asia in Beijing?

Ethan: My passion of traveling to experience different parts of the world conjoint with my thirst for enhancing my knowledge of the global economy drove me towards CRCC Asia.

The forests in China
The forests in China

GO: Describe your day to day activities as an intern.

Ethan: A regular weekday in Beijing would be spending a full day at the office completing any task given by my supervisor. Afterwards, I would go home eat, workout, and then socialize at the bar scene with the other interns.

GO: How has this experience impacted your future?

Ethan: CRCC has benefited me for the future in several different ways. Personally, I have become a much more mature adult who can take care of himself and be ready for a full time job. Professionally, the experience of working at Jessie International has well equipped me to be able to spend a day fully functioning day at the office and be ready to complete challenging assignments on time.

Meet George Boyar, CRCC alum

GO: What originally inspired to join the CRCC in Beijing?

George: I decided to intern in China over my senior summer for a couple of reasons. I think the most important one was that I was looking for something to do. I had previously spent my junior year of high school living with a host family in Beijing so I knew my way around the culture and language relatively well. I figured getting a job in China would be great on a couple of levels - I would have massive amounts of freedom to enjoy my summer before college, I would get work experience that would differentiate me from my peers and I would be able to practice and improve my Chinese.

Trek up the Great Wall!
Trek up the Great Wall!

GO: Describe your day to day activities as an intern in Beijing.

George: My work schedule was extremely variable since I was acting as an assistant to the general manager. It's not a very well defined job. Over my time there I did some translating work, read over a few legal contracts, helped to manage an artificial beach attached to the site my company was developing, worked on a promotional movie (they needed a foreigner). I also did a fake interview at the beach on live t.v. (in Chinese), organized a volleyball tournament... I did some pretty wild things, but in between them it was pretty dull sometimes. I think that is pretty understandable as a recent high school graduate since I didn't really have a marketable skill and it took my coworkers (local people since it was a local company) to really come to terms with the idea that I, a foreigner, could be helpful to them. More generally, I would say that I woke up around 10 most days and got to work by 10:30/11 (I had very casual work hours as long as I finished things on time), I would tend to eat lunch in the local area and go out for dinner with some friends, or to one of the many social events in Shanghai.

GO: How has this experience impacted your future?

George: I think one of the biggest impacts this internship had on my future is that I learned that I definitely don't want to work full time in a Chinese company. It was definitely a learning experience.

Meet Kate Gantner, CRCC alum

GO: What originally inspired to join the CRCC in Beijing?

Kate: I was a junior at the time and started to feel the heat to land an internship. I began browsing my university's career center website for different internships. The one that caught my eye was the internship in Beijing, China with CRCC Asia. I'm a business major and the prospect of working in China, the hub of the business world, excited me. It seemed like a no-brainer: study abroad while gaining valuable work experience. I applied immediately and before I knew it I was boarding a plane to Beijing.

Explore China with CRCC Asia
Explore China with CRCC Asia

GO: Describe your day to day activities as an intern in Beijing.

Kate: I interned with P1.CN, an exclusive social networking for China's elite. I was a part of the Marketing team for the company. My days at the office started at 10 am. I had a 1 minute walk to the subway from my apartment/hotel. I was lucky enough to only live two subway stops away from my work (Thanks CRCC!). P1 was nestled right in heart of the Central Business District in Beijing, which was really exciting. I shared a large table/desk with the other marketing interns. They provided us computers, but I preferred to bring my own laptop. The environment in the office was very laid back. Typically, I would receive my assignments at the beginning of the week and be expected to finish them by Friday. My assignments included market research, creating and conducting surveys for the website's members, analyzing the results and creating reports of my findings. I was also in charge of creating various presentations, some of which I presented in the conference room in front of all the department heads and board members. In addition, I had to do my fair share of proofreading of various documents that had been translated from Mandarin to English. P1 was known for its elaborate invite-only events every weekend, which was an added bonus to being an intern for the company. Unfortunately, I am not skilled in the Mandarin language, I was worried that that might be a problem, but CRCC Asia made sure that my placement was with a company that had a bilingual supervisor.

GO: How has this experience impacted your future?

Kate: Ultimately, interning in Beijing has given me that added edge to put me above the rest. It seems as if Marketing majors are a dime a dozen nowadays, but how many of them have real work experience that they gained in Beijing, China? It can be a daunting idea to consider spending two months in China, but I highly recommend it. CRCC Asia was more than helpful during my entire experience. They take care of all the hard stuff and point you in the right direction.

Meet Rick Purvis, CRCC alum

GO: What originally inspired to join the CRCC in Beijing?

Rick: I vividly remember as a five-year-old sitting in my lounge looking at an encyclopedia and seeing the Great Wall of China. I was fascinated because I have never seen something so different, the culture appealed to me. My inspiration was the love of China's culture first and foremost rather than the internship experience or an addition to my CV. I wanted to understand a different way of living, the size and scale of the daily operations, whether activities came as easy for me in NZ as they do elsewhere, if not, then why?

I graduated with Honors in International Business yet have only traveled as far as Australia. I needed to add credibility to my degree. During university our focus was on China and its current and future importance on the international stage. I also decided to set a career path in the energy industry. While in high school I decided I would work in my chosen career field while traveling the world. I wanted to hit two birds with one stone. Additionally, I intend to complete my Master's degree in Europe or USA within the next 4-5 years. An internship in China would set me up to understand international markets.

Rick with friends in Beijing
Rick with friends in Beijing

I have seen many photos on Facebook and heard stories of friends' adventures to North America or Europe. I feel I have partially visited these continents. It made me want to visit a country no one else had been to, one that I know would not be at the top of friends' list. In a funny sense it brought out my enjoyment to be a leader. I viewed China as a personal challenge that I wanted next to my name. It may seem minor to others but it helped me in my motivation to decide on, sign up, and prepare for the internship. It become a one year plan and I am proud to achieved this for myself.

I chose Beijing over Shanghai because I wanted to be in the epicenter of the world's most influential nation; there would be a feeling of greatness being there for that reason. Unlike others on the program, I did not want to build up the prospect of joining an important multinational that provided major responsibilities during the two-months. I believed the reality to be, we are interns for two-months, there is only so much responsibility and work the company can provide for us. Also, other than a brief company outline and our own Internet research, we didn't know anything about our chosen company. I did not want to create 'dreams' because the risk in disappointment is high. I wanted to enjoy my time in China. Therefore, I went to China for the holistic experience: history, business culture, people, positive/challenging experiences. Additionally, Beijing's attractions/activities aligned with my interests compared to Shanghai. I loved my time in China because I am confident in my decision making process. I spent time setting the proper mentality prior to China. I am proud of this because it meant I could make the most of my opportunities.

Rick with fellow interns in Beijing
Rick with fellow interns in Beijing

GO: Describe your day to day activities as an intern in Beijing.

Rick: I began by waking at 0815, purchase a sandwich for breakfast on my way to catch the 0840 bus and arrive at 0930 for work. I would follow up my emails for any developments from work the previous day. The majority of my assignments lasted 2-4 days. They would consist of researching international business ventures/opportunities in overseas markets/countries. If I finished a task I would offer assistance to either Patrick (Supervisor) or Cisily (CFO - work colleague). The main focus for me was to find opportunities where our company can provide solar hot water heating products.

I researched project ventures in NZ, Australia, Australia, Israel, and Germany. Twice a week my team would visit four/five-star hotels to offer solar hot water heating solutions. We present our proposal outlining the products and services suitable for their hotel. If they are impressed we arrange additional meetings and eventual contracts written up. Throughout my time I proofread English translated contracts, media releases, and PowerPoint presentations.

Rick exploring Beijing
Rick exploring Beijing

GO: How has this experience impacted your future?

Rick: My experience has had a far greater positive impact on me personally than in any other manner. This is important to me because it helps to build my mental abilities. There were a few occasions in the months leading up to the possible departure date for China that I doubted the experience. I now have the utmost confidence to continue my travels around the world. My workmates helped me understand the mentality and behaviors of the Chinese people and business culture. China allowed me to understand how I can push myself further within all aspects of my life, I know I am capable of much more. It will always hold a special connection to look back and know this is where it all started. I love to learn and involve myself in new experiences, traveling the world is the way that will fulfill these aspirations.

As I state to friends and family, it is difficult to measure the impact my internship in China will have for me professionally. Broadly, I can only imagine it will be a positive, its severity is what I am unsure about. For many this is a notch on their CV yet its impact is determined by future employers. I will let it take its course, I will focus on my professional qualities. I learned the importance of cultural differences in a business environment, how minor differences can lead to major implications. At times I felt helpless because I was in a country where I wasn't fluent in its language. However, I could sit back and focus on the indirect communication between different nationalities. Overall, I am confident I can prosper professionally in a competitive country, industry, and city. I intend to make my mark on the energy and resource industry. China is fast becoming the leader in this field, therefore, I will not be surprised to see myself return.

Meet Natasha Walcott, CRCC Asia alum in Beijing

GO: What originally inspired you to intern in Beijing with CRCC Asia?

Natasha: I've always wanted to explore China; it was one of those things on my bucket list. So when I became interested in Marketing in my junior year of undergrad, I decided doing an internship in the industry would really benefit my aspirations. It almost seemed serendipitous when my University sent a listing of internship programs to all students; CRCC Asia was on the list. Once I navigated their website, I decided to be adventurous and conquer to dreams at once. It was one the best decisions I've ever made for my academic and professional career.

Natasha and a friend in Beijing, China
Natasha and a friend in Beijing, China

GO: Describe your day to day activities as an intern in Beijing, China.

Natasha: Once my internship began I had a work schedule of an 8am-5pm shift from Monday-Friday. I did a lot of research for my internship in the clean technology sector. I answered phones in Mandarin phrases that I learned, was part of a brain storming idea session for a new organization within the company, drafted email invitations and flyers, and attended business meetings within the company.

After work, I would eat dinner with my roommate and others friends I've met and fostered from the internship program. We really wanted to take full advantage of China so some days we would plan to meet at a certain Market or store to go shopping. Weekends were the best! We made sure to explore a different part of China every weekend. We managed to go to The Great Wall, Forbidden City, the electronic market, a weekend getaway in Chengdu, and of course partying!

Natasha with other CRCC interns in China!
Natasha with other CRCC interns in China!

GO: How has this experience impacted your future?

Natasha: Interning in China crafted me into a very independent and flexible person. If I came make it in a vastly different cultural and language speaking country, I know I can accomplish great things anywhere I travel whether it be nationally or internationally. Exploring marketing in China made me realize that I want to learn more, thus I'm currently wrapping up my last semester of graduate school in Integrated Marketing Communications at Roosevelt University. I've also developed a fond interest in the Green and sustainability industry. I currently work as an Environmental Sustainability associate with an emphasis on LEED construction. I truly feel that my experience in China has fashioned me into a well-rounded individual.

Interview with Carlos Ruiz, CRCC alum

GO: What originally inspired you to intern in Beijing with CRCC?

Carlos: At the time, I was seeking a Master's Degree in Architecture at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. I was looking to expand my horizons in the area of architecture and was ideally thinking of travel opportunities. In my studies and research, I knew of the advanced technologies and methodologies in architecture that was happening in China. In addition to their recent hosting of the 2008 Olympics, China was at the forefront of some amazing newly built architecture. I also knew of China's rich past and wanted to experience the culture and the Chinese people's love of architecture, old and new.

I located CRCC through my school's website for students. I saw an opportunity to intern abroad. I researched CRCC and was pleased that their company placed American students in China's leading markets and gave students a one to three month experience in Chinese workplaces. I seized the opportunity in utilizing a company that had established networks within China and it saved me some time, looking for intern opportunities abroad.

Carlos at China Expo
Carlos at China Expo

GO: Describe your day to day activities as an intern in Beijing.

Carlos: To my surprise, I was the first architect intern that CRCC placed in China. I was excited about this opportunity and was looking to make an impact and soak in all the knowledge that I could. I was placed with a firm called Spatial Practice. There, I was a part of a small team of architects working in Beijing. Our project was a part of a national competition to design a skyscraper inside China's Central Business District (CPD). From concept to architectural drawings, I helped to present the ideas of the firm to a panel that was choosing amongst designs sent in from other top firms in and out of China. I worked on making concept models to developing drawings and diagrams that represented the firm's ideas. The firm's final presentation was not selected as a finalist; however, the experience in being part of a project from beginning to end was priceless; I know I could not be a part of such an experience anywhere else.

GO: How has this experience impacted your future?

Carlos: My experience in China was absolutely complete. Having a central role on a team of architects in developing a concept from beginning to end allowed me to understand the undertakings of an architect. I completely understand the rigors involved in detail and understand what is needed to present ideas to potential clients. Having returned from my trip to China, I have a renewed vigor to return to China sometime in the future either professionally or personally. I understand what is needed on my part in participating in a culture very unfamiliar to my own. Having flexibility and a respect to the host culture has added virtue to my life and I will always remember it as a great experience.

Further Info

Age Group: 
18-21
Degree Level: 
Bachelors Degree
Matriculated College Student
Languages: 
Chinese
Internship Types: 
Architecture
Business
Advertising
Finance
Accounting
Marketing
Public Relations
Engineering
Healthcare
Media
Pharmaceutical
Tourism
Hospitality
Living Arrangements: 
Apartment
Application: 
Online Application
Resume
Phone / Skype Interview

About CRCC Asia

CRCC Asia offers innovative internship options in a variety of internship fields in China. With our extensive network in China, you are bound to find an internship in the field of your choice. We have offices in Beijing and Shanghai, and ensure all of our interns with quality on-going support.

Interns can also enroll in Mandarin classes while completing their program. CRCC Asia provides assistance in arranging housing as well as the visa process. Browse through the reviews below and visit the CRCC Asia website for more information.

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