Unsurprisingly, the last week in Xiamen has been emotional. With many tears, it is with a heavy heart that we have to end our internship – but what an experience it has been! After putting all our efforts into report writing for Utrans, finding the best thank-you gifts for colleagues or learning how to use a toilet plunger – it is now time to say bye.
Xiamen has been an incredible adventure and I have created some memories that will last a lifetime. In this week alone, we have experienced two wedding proposals in the middle of our office, practically mastered the art of becoming mime artists and learnt a little mandarin along the way. After growing used to China’s entirely different way of life, I can say with confidence that I will miss this lifestyle. We have battled through everything as a team, seizing every opportunity to learn from our new experiences.
In and out of work, we have been totally welcomed into the culture by everyone. During working hours, we have thoroughly adapted to the professional environment. At work we have found direct contact information of potential overseas business partners and even proof read our CEO’s emails. Outside of work however, life does not stop. We have jumped at KTV, mysterious back-alley street-vendor food, near-miss traffic accidents and a certain intern’s ‘guide to flirting’. Mixing with all different cultures and some truly amazing people (usually with very challenging names), Xiamen makes the perfect destination for a sensational adventure.
To anyone even considering going to China for a GEO internship, I can entirely recommend it and know that you will have an unforgettable time!
再见，吻 & 椰子 !
Andrea Cavallo, GEO intern at Utrans Wines, Xiamen
