SIFT – The Sage China Connection

Surreal…This is the word which kept on coming to mind during our last 10 days in China.  Expect the unexpected and take in every moment in this beautiful land. 

Our adventure began in the capital city of Beijing where we were offered the amazing opportunity to climb the Great Wall of China (which is also a great bottle of wine here!!!) The emotions which went through me brought tears to my eyes.  This time 6 months ago I would have never thought I would step foot on one of the great wonder of the world.  I’m sure my classmates have touched on the Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Summer Plaza and many great restaurants, and the Summer Olympics so I will move on.

Xian and Guilin were our stops to Shanghai, and what important places to visit.  Xian was a place of great history and culture.  We visited the Terra Cota warriors and met the farmer who discovered them, climbed the Pagoda which provided a fabulous sight of the historic city. 

Guilin was absolutly breathtaking.  From the unbelievable mountains to the calm Li River, we were taken back of the beauty, culture and warmth of this city.  Our 2 days consisted of learning about the land, art, culture and meeting wonderful kind people in this city.  We attended an art presentation by a Chinese artist…many of us took home paintings which he drew just for us. 

            Shanghai was our finale destination and what a finale stop it was.  Our week residency was inspirational to say the least.  We were honored with lectures from distinguished faculty from SIFT.  Shanghai is clean, safe and exciting. For example I was able to go for a jog alone this morning and not worry about my safety.  I should have been worried about my sense of direction because I got lost =) but I was able to ask a gentlemen about SIFT location and he directed me the right direction. 

            In the past week we learned about the Chinese culture, business ethics, economics, marketing and our Chinese names!!!!  Most importently we were blessed to meet great students, faculty and tour guides which made this experience unforgettable. 

            Today was our closing ceremony at SIFT.  This is where we received our certificate of completion for the program and attended an amazing party the SIFT students held for us. 

            Personally the highlight of my trip was when I was provided the opportunity to show our gratitude and appreciation to SIFT for there kind hospitality.  We were asked to prepare a speech for the closing ceremony and I jumped on the opportunity to show our appreciations.

(The following is the speech Aline gave-cjw)

            “Ni hoa (hello)

            From Beijing, Xian, Guilin and finally Shanghai my classmates and I have been offered this amazing lifetime opportunity to visit, learn experience, adapt and respect this wonderful country.

            We were taken back from our first steps on this beautiful land. The culture, history, and most importantly the people have provided us with fond memories and pictures that will last a lifetime.

            In particular we would like to thank SIFT for their hospitality and generosity in the past week.  The lectures given were engaging, clear, and relevant to our MBA program.

            Out visit to the World Trade Organization, Shanghai Stock Exchange, Mall of Asia, and let’s not forget an extrodinary acrobat show could not have happened if it wasn’t for your kind instructors and leaders.

As we board our plane on Monday we will take with us far more then we ever expected.

From our hearts we would like to thank you so very much and extend an invitation to you and your students to come  to the United States so we may offer you the same hospitality as you have given us.

On behalf of my classmates, myself, and the Sage Graduate Program….

Xie Xie (thank you)”

On this trip I was honored to represent the United States but most impotently blessed to meet and travel  with such amazing business entrepeneurs and faculty representing a wonderful educational institution.

Thank you Thank you Thank you…

Aline