During their stay in China this past summer, students in the Pacific Rim program enjoyed a stimulating mix of academics, behind-the-scenes visits to four very different companies, tours of historic and cultural sites, and social time spent with peers from Peking University.

One consistent theme emphasized by representatives of GE Aviation, P&G, KPMG and Polaroid was the very rapid pace of change in the global marketplace, and the need for companies to maintain an innovative spirit and a nimble, efficient business model that is sensitive to cultural differences.

GE Aviation, Shanghai, China
Miami’s Pac Rim students visited the GE facilities in Shanghai this summer. Students relate that they were impressed with the production lines, and enjoyed a lively discussion with a director and managers over lunch at the facility. Miami alumna Kristine Kalolick currently works as the director of GE Shanghai. She accompanied the student group to the facilities.

Director Kristine Kalolick (on far right) leads a discussion with GE managers

KPMG Shanghai
In Shanghai, Farmer School students and faculty members met the senior management team at KPMG’s office, and visited more informally with them over lunch.

KPMG Shanghai principal Mark Lavalle talks about what it’s like to do business in China’s business center.

P&G Beijing Tech Center
P&G has been sponsoring Miami’s Pac Rim program for the last seven years, allowing students to visit the P&G Technology Center in Beijing annually. This past summer, James Kaw, Director of the P&G Beijing Technology Center greeted our group, and introduced the unique business strategy that P&G uses in China. Several international expatriate managers met with the students and provided a tour of the facilities. The discussion between knowledgeable managers and interested students quickly became engaging for both parties.

James Kaw, the Director of P&G Technology Center, Beijing, giving a presentation

Polaroid, Shanghai, China
Miami’s Pac Rim students visited the Polaroid office in Shanghai this summer. The group reports that they were amazed by Polaroid’s new printing technology, as well as their marketing strategy, and efficient "thin" business model. Polaroid also graciously provided the students a fantastic dinner in international style.

Students having dinner with the Polaroid leadership team

Peking University, Beijing China
The students at Guang Hua School of Management, Peking University have enjoyed years of “friendship building projects” with Miami students.

Miami students with PKU buddies at the WeiMing Lake, on the PKU campus in Beijing