Business Experience in China with Projects Abroad

  China

• Shanghai: 
Shanghai

Term: Fall, Spring, Summer, Throughout the year, Winter 
Dates: All Year Round

Description: Business Internships and work experience overseas in China

A voluntary Business Internship project in China will give you a unique insight into the fusion of Western-style Capitalism and Eastern-style Communism. As one of the world's most rapidly growing economies and with increasing foreign investments, China has an ever-expanding portfolio when it comes to world trade. Its massive revenue is generated from core industries and exports that include machinery, plastics, iron, a vast array of consumer products, shipping and even commercial space launch vehicles!

The Chinese language is also gaining prominence around the world as more and more people recognise the use in being able to speak it. China is a major force to be reckoned with, both now and in the future.

There are many opportunities for those who wish to study or work within one of the key sectors that China currently trades in. For volunteers who are on a gap-year and looking to be accepted onto a business course at university, or for those looking for employment in a particular sector of the business world, a voluntary Business Internship in China offers access to the work experience that will make you stand out from the crowd.

All Business Internship volunteers live and work in the vibrant, modern cities of Shanghai and Hangzhou.

* Business work-experience opportunities with Projects Abroad in China:

Shanghai is one of the world's fastest-growing city-based economies, a 21st-century metropolis where all the world's major businesses can be found. Shanghai's new finance and enterprise zone, Pudong, has expanded massively in the last five years. A huge amount of foreign investment has changed this area from farm and wasteland to a packed skyline containing some of the world's tallest buildings. Hangzhou is also developing at a rapid pace and is home to many new investors and many up-and-coming businesses.

We organise work experience programmes in a number of business sectors. These include areas such as marketing, PR, HR, accountancy, and property development. Developing placements in other business areas is always possible - just ask!

* Volunteering on a Business Internship Placement in China:

As a volunteer in Shanghai or Hangzhou on one of our Business Internship Placements, you can provide effective and constructive help working on a variety of projects. Offices are often located in glamorous locations in high-rise office buildings.

During the placement, volunteers are expected to be punctual, professional and hard-working. You will be required to work an average of 35 hours per week, usually Monday-Friday. When you arrive at work on your first day, you will be assigned a supervisor who will be able to advise and support you during your placement, and of course our Projects Abroad staff are always available to support you throughout your placement.

The work you do will depend on the placement but be prepared to be challenged! You will get involved with the day-to-day activities of the office whether it be contacting different clients, working with business support teams, researching for current or future projects, putting together portfolios, attending meetings or working on set briefs.

The working day is split in two by a lunch break during which time everyone in the office will usually head out to eat together. It is at these times when you can really get to know your colleagues and gain an insight into their culture. In turn your colleagues will be interested to learn about you and your culture. They will also be keen to practice their spoken English on you, so you might find yourself teaching a few informal English lessons at times.

No matter where you are placed in the Chinese business world, your input will be greatly encouraged and appreciated, especially if you prove to be adaptable and willing.

Highlights: Volunteer Travel and Tourism in China

There are many attractions to experience and travel to on your days off. Shanghai is developing so rapidly that something interesting is always going on, as old and new worlds come together. The city contains well-stocked museums, and a visit to the Yu Yuan gardens is essential.

Take a boat trip on the Huang Pu River and visit the Bund - Shanghai's famous colonial-style waterfront that has been a landmark for centuries.
The Yangtze river, which is the world's third longest waterway, is also easily accessible. Commonly known as the Chang Jiang (Long River), take heed of the saying 'If you haven't travelled up Chang Jiang, you haven't been anywhere.'

Unsurprisingly, given its size and history, China has World Heritage sites in abundance. The Great Wall and the Terra-Cotta Army are attractions worth a visit once your volunteer work is over. But don't overlook the many other palaces, scenic passes, ancient cities, monuments, temples and carvings that have been given global recognition for their beauty and importance.

The lakeshore of Hangzhou, the gardens of Suzhou, the beaches of Putuoshan; all of these offer a break from the city buzz. Find time to go off the beaten track, too. Trek the silk route; visit a Buddhist monastery. The Chinese countryside will show you how vastly different rural life is compared with the world that is emerging from the urban streets.

Possibilities and opportunities for you in China are as wide ranging as the country itself!

Qualifications: No qualifications or experience are required.

Cost in US$: From US$3,895 up

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to China Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement: As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded: 1992