Seeing China through the lens of Western Media makes you blind. China has a beautiful and warm culture with awesome people and above all, one of the safest countries of our time. For several reasons, my trip to China was a dream come true, because of our family connection to my adopted sister. I have learned Mandarin from age 12 but has never made it to China. I speak reasonably good mandarin with a horrible accent- this also inspired my ambition to improve. I applied for an Engineering internship in China with CIP because being a first-time visitor; I expected to hire the services of an Agency to handle all preparations. I do not like chaos. :)
I was placed with an Audi Engine Assembling Plant in Tianjin; the twin city of Bejing and Hebei. I decided to extend my stay from 3 to 7 months later in the process as I was so happy with the offer presented. It was a very competitive opportunity and took me several rounds of interview and selection process. It started with 5 of us from the CIP platform, and only 2 were selected which I happen to be one. It was reassuring as my placement coordinator assists with preparations and information for each round. On arrival, I got to know that not all Interns get through the same rigorous selection process. But hey! This is Audi; a premium organization every young Engineer will love to work. This makes my opportunity unique, and I felt I earned it.
The CIP team were on the ground, and I see them more often than I expect. A professional driver dressed in a CIP attire showed up at the airport to pick me up to my accommodation, then life started in China.
I was not too critical of other services as I prioritize my experience as 80% of the expectation. I had few trips to Xian to visit the terracotta warriors; I also had short travels along the silk road which is at the center of China's One Belt One Road initiative as well as the future of China. It was a fantastic experience I won't trade for other.
The program is good, and the CIP team have no illusions of how to serve Interns well. They will take time to explain what they provide; then you decide whether it is a good deal. The satisfaction commensurates the fees.
CIP is an excellent organization with deep empathy towards their clients. I had few free services to augment my experience, and I am grateful to Alfred, Joanna, Heidy, Lewis and especially Iris.
I promised them I will be back in 2019 and I mean it. "Zai Jian"
Response from China Internship Placements
Rodrigo, Thanks so much for sharing your experience. We appreciate your recommendations. Looking to serve you with Alumni Support Services. Have a wonderful Year :)