Overview
The EI Institute offers two programs for university students interested in a China focused career. Students can select either the Service Learning or Corporate Internship Program, both of which place participants on project teams with specific objectives to accomplish for their host organization. These programs combine language classes at the historic Hohai University with professional training and practical work experience.
Unlike many China internships, EI Institute China Programs are accredited by an American university. Students can receive academic credit for their participation, which is granted by EI Institute's affiliate, Jackson State University.
These programs were designed to provide students with a strong foundation in industry knowledge, professional skills and cultural understanding related to China.
Why should students choose this program?
While doing business in China the EI Institute's sister company, Enjoy International Consultants, has found that many obstacles prevent foreigners from entering the Chinese market, whether as a buyer, marketer, or individual job applicant. These obstacles exist because foreign professionals and businesses lack a basic understanding of how to navigate China’s unique customs and market structure. This program has been created to specifically address these barriers and will present students with the following advantages:
This program will prepare students for the following career focuses:
Corporate Internship Program
Program Introduction:
The EI Institute leverages our close relationships with local businesses and government to provide students with internships in foreign and domestic enterprises. Students will work in project teams to help companies expand their communication, marketing and operational ability.
General Services Provided:
Additional Support from EI Institute staff:
Example Projects:
The following example projects will provide prospective students with a better understanding of the project possibilities offered through our program. Exact placements and project assignments will become available to students after their acceptance into the program.
Example 1:
International Trade - Jiangsu Skyrun
Corporation Company Introduction:
A Chinese trade company with international sourcing and distribution networks.
Overall Objective:
Improve Western market entry strategy
Project Assignment:
Assist in the design of a catalogue targeting Western buyers. Students will gain experience related to sourcing and manufacturing operations, cross cultural marketing, and project management.
Example 2:
Cross-cultural Communication - Multinational automotive corporation
Overall Objective:
Improve communication with overseas offices and headquarters
Project Assignment:
Plan and implement activities for a business communication program focusing on Western culture and business etiquette by identifying the development needs of the Chinese staff and recommending strategies to help bridge cultural and linguistic gaps. Students will gain experience designing surveys, summarizing results and creating reports.
Example 3:
China Marketing – International restaurant group
Overall Objective:
Build and implement a brand strategy for the local market.
Project Assignment:
Conduct market research and develop a marketing strategy for the purpose of enhancing local brand recognition. Students will gain experience in aspects of marketing such as designing surveys, conducting interviews, and building a brand.
Service Learning Program
Program Introduction:
The EI Institute works with non-profit organizations to create innovative, goal-oriented projects that help to enhance community development.. Project teams will focus on specific tasks.
General Services Provided:
Additional Support from the EI Institute staff:
General Services Provided:
Project Example: Pfrang Association
During our Spring 2010 program, a Service Learning participant will be hosted by the Pfrang Association, a charity that assists underprivileged students go to school in rural Jiangsu province.
Project assignments may include:
Language Component
Effective communication is essential for success in China, therefore we will provide 10 hours per week of language training to all of our students in Mandarin Chinese. We believe that a basic understanding of the Chinese language will help students to adapt and progress in China more quickly. We also understand that a number of our internship students will have had previous experience studying Chinese.
For those students who already have a background in Chinese language, we will provide them with language classes appropriate to their level of proficiency.