Week 2 Reflection

In this second session, we focused on creating personal brand statements for ourselves and reflected on a personal brand statement for our internship. Establishing and focusing on a personal brand statement while in China is crucial, as I will be representing myself, The Hoeft Technology & Management Program, and the University of Illinois. I am extremely excited to visit numerous different companies and see how Chinese business operations are different in the United States. One company I am particularly interested in visiting is Walt Disney. That is a company I dream of one day working for, and I definitely want to seize this opportunity for networking and to learn how Disney differs in China vs. America. That being said, sticking to my values of professionalism and considering my personal brand statement, I want to make sure that I am being respectful and observant of different Chinese views and business practices. I am looking forward to learning more about business etiquette in China to determine the proper way to interact with Chinese professionals. My personal brand statement includes making sure I am professional, respectful, on time, and open to learning and understand new things outside of my comfort zone. This week was also focused on looking forward to the trip and different excursions and cultural sites we will see. I am most excited for The Great Wall of China, and I am also excited to visit the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. I also love taking pictures of my food and I cannot wait to try authentic Chinese food.