Sp04 China Tour Testimonials

The following are excerpts from essays on the educational value of the Sp04 tour that were submitted by recipients of China Study Tour Grants and/or students registered for the three credit China Studies course, which was offered in conjunction with the tour. Most of the following comments are regarding the tour, although some pertain to the three credit China Studies course.

Rhonda Sample, MBA student, China Studies student

“… to write about all that I learned and experienced on the China trip. I think this task is so daunting because of the number of cultural experiences and observations we did have in just 8 short days.”

“…the contact course hours spent in Beijing provided me with relevant and impactful information that can be used to operate our business strategically.”

“The richness of this learning experience really comes from traveling to Beijing, China, visiting locations of historical significance, interacting directly with the Chinese and their culture, observing the educational system of China, and meeting people who are doing business in China.”

“I cannot thank you, the University, the Dean, and the President of Gannon University enough for supporting and offering the combination China course and trip to both undergraduate and graduate students alike. It is my hope that Gannon University students will continue to experience this course and be offered the chance to travel to China where they will learn and have the educational opportunity of a lifetime.

Amy Weller, MBA student, China Studies student

“In my opinion, this class would not have had near the educational impact without the trip than it did with.

“…I would not take the class without the trip and I would not take the trip without the class. The two go hand in hand.”

“Nearing the end of my MBA program at Gannon University, I can say, without question, that this was my favorite class and most relevant to my job as a business consultant.”

“I must say that the College needs to do a better job of ‘selling’ such an experience to the other students and students in other disciplines.”

“This was a trip of a lifetime that I will never forget as long as I live.”

Maureen Foote, undergrad IB major, China Studies student

“The Splendid China Study Tour was an excellent introduction to Chinese society and culture. The trip allowed me a first hand glimpse into modern Chinese life. My prior perception of what China was like was overturned and I have a new appreciation for their culture.”

“Overall the trip was a very rewarding experience. I would recommend it to all students in international business as China will be the fastest growing buyer and supplier in the world’s economy over the next two decades. I also recommend this tour to anyone interested in learning about the Chinese culture. So much more can be learned by first hand experience than can be taught in a classroom. Anyone who takes the tour needs to take the corresponding course.”

Mary Donnelly, MBA student, China Studies student

“The educational value of the China Study Tour is immeasurable. I could not have predicted the profound impact it would have on me. The trip exceeded my wildest expectations.”

“China’s importance to the United States is growing, as they become a major player in the world economy. These are reasons this class is so important.”

“To sum up my trip, visiting and studying about China has given me a new appreciation for what I have. I have learned new respect for the Chinese, and their way of life. It has made me want to learn more about China and other cultures.”