Andrew McIntyre

Can you tell us briefly about your short-term experience abroad? 

A connection between UniSA and Tianjin University brought forth a 2 month design internship at Battle, one of the worlds largest manufactures of bicycles. 

Battle was a great place to visit and work at. The factory was enormous, and they have an    R&D team of 15 or so people. Lunch and dinner were provided everyday.

We travelled from Tianjin to Beijing twice for the day on high-speed train to see the cultural parts of old China (Great Wall etc.). We also went to Shanghai for the final weekend to see the culture of China’s largest and most westernised city.

Can you see any benefits from this experience to your future career?

This internship will absolutely benefit m future career. Design plays a huge role in the Chinese economy from manufacture, and knowing a small amount about how their culture works is very helpful.

Why would your recommend this experience to other students?

My views on different cultures have changed greatly, and I appreciate some of the aspects of Australian life much more than before, while also missing some of the things that China culture has that Australia does not.

What advice would you give to a student who was hesitant or considering joining the short-term exchange program?

It’s a great experience and to go for it.! The first week is culture-shock because of the huge differences between the two countries. You adjust very quickly though. We met new people through the university, as they were helping us find our way around and communicate to people, as I speak very little Chinese!