Sarah's world is no longer as 'flat', a journey inspired by Friedman

Sarah posing by Great Wall

Learn more about our programs and activities on the FSB China Programs website.

Before my undergraduate career, if I had been asked if I would ever study abroad, I would have responded “absolutely.” Although fine-tuning my skills in business abroad was always a definite in the back of my mind, the wondering question was where?

Thomas Friedman’s “The World is Flat” taught in my MIS 235 class solved that answer for me. He preached that our world is quickly flattening. As a student in this flattening world, I need to be prepared. Prepared for what? I must be equipped to work alongside business leaders in the east not just the west.

Thirty Miami University students and two faculty members headed to the other side of the world to study the culture and business within the FSB Far East Program. Dr. Yen and Prof. Lancaster introduced us to a world where business is in the stage of almost full bloom. After seeing growth throughout Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Nanjing, and many more cities, it’s hard to deny the fact that China will become a future business leader.

Our trip began in Taiwan where we were greeted with great hospitality. Taiwan cuisine was rather different than the stereotypical “Panda Express” known within American fare. It took a few tries before everyone mastered the essential chopstick skills.

From dumplings in Taiwan we headed to thrills in Hong Kong. The country bore some resemblance to home, due to heavy European influence. In an attempt to rekindle what little alliance we had to our western world; we attended Hong Kong Disney.

Beijing was next on the list. This city amazed us at its bustling business district that appeared to be growing under our eyes. If you have ever thought rush hour was bad in the States, think again. Beijing runs on its own time.

Dr. Yen set us up with educational company visits that helped drive home business principles we have been learning back in Oxford. Hosts such as Cummins and P&G went above and beyond to give us a great experience.

Our immersion into China was not just a once in a lifetime experience. It was preparing us to play on our flattening world, and helping us become prepared to work on our leveled playing field.

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