I learned a lot about the definition of sustainability and the impact we humans have on our earthly home. I’ve learned that when we consider the world as a global market, it only makes sense to take environmental sustainability into consideration. One of the paramount purposes of this trip was to open our eyes to sustainable business practices (with special focus on China). During these two weeks, we learned about biomimicry, low-tech sustainable building solutions, waste treatment challenges and opportunities, low carbon transport and how Green Marketing can be a profitable reality. Through all of these lectures, a common idea was strung. In order to be responsible global citizens, we have a duty to fix the problem on our own soil as well as address it in China where this pollution problem is wide reaching. Our job as business people is to define business models that help sustain our environment, our economy, and ourselves as a human race.
I returned from this trip a changed person. Before studying abroad, I was quiet, indecisive, and dependent on others when making decisions. I never thought I could travel to the other side of the world on my own. After the trip, I have become more independent. I am more than capable of making my own decisions and handling the consequences. I have more faith in my academic skills and I developed an ability to work well under pressure. We had a chance to interact with successful businesspeople and were forced to hold our own in business proposals of our green ideas. I learned how to conduct myself professionally and maintain composure in stressful situations. I now know I can function in an environment that is very different from my own. I am proud to say I am now much wiser, more professional, and definitely more confident than before. Even now, when I’m faced with challenging circumstances, I catch myself thinking: “I went to China! This is nothing!”
My main piece of advice for anyone considering the study abroad program in Shanghai is to be open-minded. I encountered extreme culture shock, especially since I had never traveled outside of the United States before. There were daily stares from the moment I stepped outside my hotel room until the moment I returned home. This was a little unnerving at first. But, I had to remind myself that many Chinese people don’t get to see people like us on a daily basis. Our appearance is rarity and the people just want to take it in.
Open your eyes. Take in as much of the beautiful city as you can. Look around. Make comparisons, but focus on the similarities more than the differences. Be willing to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new. If you close yourself off to new adventures, you will miss out on your one and only chance to see, taste, touch, smell, and hear something you have never experienced before (and will never experience again). Worst case scenario, you will have an amazing story to share with your friends when you get back home.
I do not regret my decision to study with the Center for Sustainability in Shanghai. The education I received will benefit me now and in the future. The friendships I cultivated will last for years to come. I recognize that I was very fortunate to participate in this trip with the group of people I was placed with. It was truly a privilege, and I highly recommend this opportunity to students everywhere.
