Junior shares insights from China study abroad experience

Kim Nguyen, a junior studying accounting at the University of Kansas, heard about studying abroad opportunities as a sophomore. Once she felt confident enough to go abroad, she made the decision to go to Shanghai, China, for eight weeks during the summer of 2019.

In her words, Nguyen shares the following insights about her experiences:

Every semester, my professors would bring people in from the Office of Study Abroad who informed us about all the different programs that KU offers. Since I heard about the programs multiple times, I gained more confidence each time to look into the programs. While abroad, I learned a lot about marketing events in China. It’s a lot different than one might think. In the US, we usually resort to advertising on social media such as Facebook or Instagram, but in China, all of those are blocked. I learned a lot about using China’s main app for communication, WeChat, and others’ networks to spread the word about events. In addition, I learned about venture capital and what steps to take if I ever wanted to start my own startup.

My global experience could not have happened if it wasn’t for the MBSP [Multicultural Business Scholars Program]. I am very appreciative of Mr. Johnson and the MBSP in securing my trip abroad since the program was the main contributor to my financial need. They took off loads amount of stress and made the experience much more enjoyable.

I came back to the United States with a different perspective and a lot more knowledge regarding my major. I met a lot of really great entrepreneurs and those in the startup community who gave me a lot of insight about my future goals and the overall difficulties and benefits of running my own business. Being in the bustling city of Shanghai, things were always changing! It made me realize how independent I can be, and how I should always try new things and act upon the goals I want to achieve without letting others or potential difficulties discourage me!