SEPP, the Spoken English Promotion Project, provides Goodman and other Brock students with the opportunity to spend three weeks in China during the month of May. The students serve as English Conversational Teaching Assistants and work with students at Zhejiang Gongshang University (ZJGSU). They also take informational classes on culture, language and business from local Chinese professors and travel to Beijing and Shanghai on the weekends. We chatted with MBA student Victor Stranges and BBA student Puja Patel about their upcoming trip to China.
Why did you decide to take part in SEPP?
Victor: I decided to take part in SEPP as I figured it would be a good opportunity to gain international experience. As globalization has entrenched itself in the business world, I feel this will give me an opportunity to continue to develop global and cultural competence.
Puja: I decided to take part in SEPP because it is something that I have never had the chance to do before. I have always been interested in learning about new cultures and networking; however, I was never exposed to much of that from my hometown. Going to China will allow me to get out of my comfort zone and experience things that I may never get the chance to do. Additionally, it will allow me to build a network and build a connection for my business career ahead.
Is this your first international experience?
Victor: This is my first international experience through Brock University, and to Asia. However, I have visited many European countries in the past.
Puja: I have been out of the country before, but only for recreational purposes. Additionally, the entire process of going away with 20 people that I have never interacted with prior to, gives this trip a more thrilling aspect altogether.
What have you done to prepare for the trip?
Victor: In terms of preparation, I have attended weekly meetings where topics such as lesson planning and basic Mandarin have been discussed. Also, I have researched and spoken to others who have been to China in the past regarding sights to see and things to do while am I am in China.
Puja: What have I not done to prepare for this trip is the better question! I have gone to all the meetings that our group leaders have organized to further prepare us for this trip. I have met some graduate students who have taught me some of the things that I should look out for on my trip to China. Furthermore, I have created index cards that have helpful words written in English and in Mandarin. Therefore if I cannot pronounce it, I can always show the person who I am interacting with what I mean.
What are you most excited about?
Victor: I am most looking forward to experiencing Chinese culture and practices. Also, we have a good group going, so there is the opportunity to make some good friends through this program.
Puja: The aspect that I am most excited about is to work with the students to better build my skills. Yes, I am teaching them, but I feel I could learn along with them. By interacting with them, I am learning how to interact with people of a different country. Coming to Brock has taught me that networking is a very important skill you need in business and I want to improve that skill during this trip. Additionally, I want to learn about their culture and see what new experiences it offers to expand my knowledge on the real world.
For three weeks, you’ll be working as Language and Culture Teaching Assistants and paired with business students from ZJGSU to practice spoken English. They’ll be learning about Canadian culture and you’ll be learning about Chinese culture. What is the first question you’ll ask the ZJGSU students?
Victor: “Where is the best place to eat authentic Chinese food around here?”
Puja: “What are some of the things that you have heard about Canada?”
