Professional Internships in Beijing, China with Gi2C Group
Provided by: Gi2C Group
Overall rating: 7.9
based on 31 reviews
Program Description
Gi2C Group specializes in connecting China and the global community through internships in China. We are now looking for hard-working, and reliable students and graduates for our international internship program in Beijing, China.
Beijing is a rapidly growing city known as the economic and political center of China and is home to many well-known company headquarters and operations. In addition to living right next to world famous sites such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, you’ll have the opportunity to start your career in a historic city that is paving the future of China. The capital is home to the country’s best universities, attracting students from every corner of the Middle Kingdom.
As many of these smart grads remain in Beijing, it means you’ll be working alongside of the smartest and best during your internship. On the weekends, you’ll have a chance to explore the old hutongs or paddleboat in the middle of the gorgeous Summer Palace. In Beijing, you’ll never run out of things to do or people to meet! Start your internship in Beijing today with Gi2C who will help you with everything you need to begin working in China.
Gi2C partners with a variety of local Chinese and international companies, and provides students, graduates and young professionals with the opportunity to further their personal and professional development in a dynamic international setting.
Beijing is a rapidly growing city known as the economic and political center of China and is home to many well-known company headquarters and operations. In addition to living right next to world famous sites such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, you’ll have the opportunity to start your career in a historic city that is paving the future of China. The capital is home to the country’s best universities, attracting students from every corner of the Middle Kingdom.
As many of these smart grads remain in Beijing, it means you’ll be working alongside of the smartest and best during your internship. On the weekends, you’ll have a chance to explore the old hutongs or paddleboat in the middle of the gorgeous Summer Palace. In Beijing, you’ll never run out of things to do or people to meet! Start your internship in Beijing today with Gi2C who will help you with everything you need to begin working in China.
Gi2C partners with a variety of local Chinese and international companies, and provides students, graduates and young professionals with the opportunity to further their personal and professional development in a dynamic international setting.
Highlights
This is a 30-90-days International Internship Program with Gi2C Group that can lead to full-time employment contingent upon your satisfactory performance.► Boost your CV and Career Prospects;
► Get some knowledge of your preferred industry;
► Establish your business circle;
► Get familiar with Chinese language and culture;
► Opportunity to get a full-time job offer upon completing this program.
Qualifications
Chinese language skills are not necessary, good English is the only language requirement.Internship Types
- Accounting
- Architecture
- Art/Fine Arts
- Business Admin, Management
- Communications
- Engineering (Mechanical)
- Finance
- Graphic Design
- Hotel/Restaurant/Hospitality
- Human Resources
- Interior Design
- International Trade
- Law
- Marketing, Ad, PR
- Tourism
- Web Design
What`s Included
① Career advise② Internship placement
③ Orientation upon arrival
④ Accommodation assistance
⑤ Welcome package
⑥ Visa assistance
⑦ Online Mandarin Course
⑧ Business, Cultural Networking Events
⑨ On-site support
⑩ Certificate upon completion
Other Programs From The Same Provider
Program Locations
Beijing, China
Overall rating
7.9
Experience
8
Program Administration
8.1
Living Conditions
7.7
Cultural Immersion
7.9
Social Life
7.7
Health and Safety
7.7
Program Details
Provider:
Gi2C Group
Location
- China: Beijing
Language:
Chinese, English
Term:
Throughout the year
Duration:
1-3 months
Participants:
American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, South African, Worldwide
Cost:
Gi2C Internship Program Cost: $698 ~ $998. Cost depends on the program package you choose.
Gi2C Group - Program Reviews
Gi2c was great!
Review by: Naomi Abiera- View profile
- Send message
, On: 16 Oct 2015, Changed On: 16 Oct 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programMy working experience in China
Review by: Jendrik Markwardt- View profile
- Send message
, On: 16 Oct 2015, Changed On: 16 Oct 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programIt was brilliant. I really liked this job.
Review by: Adam Martin- View profile
- Send message
, On: 14 Oct 2015, Changed On: 14 Oct 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programSuitable for my requirement criteria
Review by: John David- View profile
- Send message
, On: 13 Oct 2015, Changed On: 13 Oct 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programGreat internship in Beijing
Review by: Fajr- View profile
- Send message
, On: 21 Sep 2015, Changed On: 22 Sep 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programMy internship in China
Review by: Jonathan Caeymaex- View profile
- Send message
, On: 18 Sep 2015, Changed On: 18 Sep 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programYou made the whole experience before coming to China very smooth, thank you.
I wish you all the success in the future.
I had a lot of fun and really enjoyed working at Lehman Brown.
Review by: James Lock- View profile
- Send message
, On: 18 Sep 2015, Changed On: 18 Sep 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programYou made the whole experience before coming to China very smooth, thank you.
I wish you all the success in the future.
it was totally different experience even though i am living in asia but, in beijing are totally different. this when we experience how people are, and what they do with their live and business, which we can experience them and increase knowledge.
Delighted
Review by: Muhammad- View profile
- Send message
, On: 14 Sep 2015, Changed On: 14 Sep 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programit was totally different experience even though i am living in asia but, in beijing are totally different. this when we experience how people are, and what they do with their live and business, which we can experience them and increase knowledge.
I interned in a global PR company in Beijng. I would say the company is great, and all co-workers are nice. However, I found I didn't like to do PR very much. Well, it is also good to find out what I do not want anyway.
For one problem I think Gi2C might be able to adjust a little, which I think the program fee and all activity fee are kind of pricey, that is also why I did not participate those events very often.
Internship Review
Review by: Ying Zhan- View profile
- Send message
, On: 05 Aug 2015, Changed On: 05 Aug 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programI interned in a global PR company in Beijng. I would say the company is great, and all co-workers are nice. However, I found I didn't like to do PR very much. Well, it is also good to find out what I do not want anyway.
For one problem I think Gi2C might be able to adjust a little, which I think the program fee and all activity fee are kind of pricey, that is also why I did not participate those events very often.
On the other hand, I would like to also like to say a huge thank you to Gi2C who brought me to China and obviously found a job for me. I really enjoy the activities organised by Gi2C especially the HuTong trip. Unfortunately I am leaving Beijing soon and I could not have a chance to meet other new interns. But in generally, Gi2C is a good company and I would definitely recommend this company to my friends when they are looking for a job in China.
I would definitely recommend this company to my friends
Review by: Peter- View profile
- Send message
, On: 30 Jul 2015, Changed On: 30 Jul 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programOn the other hand, I would like to also like to say a huge thank you to Gi2C who brought me to China and obviously found a job for me. I really enjoy the activities organised by Gi2C especially the HuTong trip. Unfortunately I am leaving Beijing soon and I could not have a chance to meet other new interns. But in generally, Gi2C is a good company and I would definitely recommend this company to my friends when they are looking for a job in China.
This was my first internship as a whole and to intern in a company abroad made it all the more interesting and difficult. The guys at Gi2C helped explain everything to us at orientation day which was followed by a duck dinner which was also delicious. I also met and made friends with a lot of new people that were also interns.
I would definitely recommend this internship to all those who want to broaden their horizons and gain some work experience in another country but there are some things to consider. This was my first internship and thus first chance to work for an actual company so I made many mistakes that made some problems for me during my time in China. My advice to anyone reading this review would be to carefully review the firm you're interning with before actually arriving in China and ask as many questions as possible so that you don't face any errors when you do actually get here. Also I would suggest to try to learn some Chinese before coming to China and also make a list of things you would need as soon as you get to China and plan ahead as to how you will actually buy/acquire them. Apart from that if you keep those things in mind before actually arriving you'll have a blast, the program is excellent and the people at Gi2C are also very helpful.
My Month in Beijing
Review by: Fasih Ur Rehman- View profile
- Send message
, On: 26 Jul 2015, Changed On: 26 Jul 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programThis was my first internship as a whole and to intern in a company abroad made it all the more interesting and difficult. The guys at Gi2C helped explain everything to us at orientation day which was followed by a duck dinner which was also delicious. I also met and made friends with a lot of new people that were also interns.
I would definitely recommend this internship to all those who want to broaden their horizons and gain some work experience in another country but there are some things to consider. This was my first internship and thus first chance to work for an actual company so I made many mistakes that made some problems for me during my time in China. My advice to anyone reading this review would be to carefully review the firm you're interning with before actually arriving in China and ask as many questions as possible so that you don't face any errors when you do actually get here. Also I would suggest to try to learn some Chinese before coming to China and also make a list of things you would need as soon as you get to China and plan ahead as to how you will actually buy/acquire them. Apart from that if you keep those things in mind before actually arriving you'll have a blast, the program is excellent and the people at Gi2C are also very helpful.
Interning In Beijing
Review by: Camilo Breddels- View profile
- Send message
, On: 06 Jul 2015, Changed On: 06 Jul 2015 | No, I would not recommend this programThere were issues of misinformation that made Camilo’s airport pick up not go as smoothly as planned. And yes, activities can get canceled when there is a lack of participation, but these activities are always offered again or changed to something more suitable for our clients should they choose to attend. We at Gi2C would like to publicly apologize to Camilo because in the end he was less than pleased and making our clients happy is our greatest concern.
From my internship I gained experience of communication with different people, understanding different cultures. In Australia it’s kind of expected more that you work from 9 to 17 and you have to be very prompt back from your lunch break, everything’s do like yesterday. However in China working schedule is different. I can’t say Chinese are not working hard but concerning working hours it’s probably just shorter.
Btw, always take note of what particular locals are doing, Chinese people are nice but there are a lot of scams who'll be happy get your money
A little but shocked, but fine
Review by: Jodie- View profile
- Send message
, On: 15 Apr 2015, Changed On: 15 Apr 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programFrom my internship I gained experience of communication with different people, understanding different cultures. In Australia it’s kind of expected more that you work from 9 to 17 and you have to be very prompt back from your lunch break, everything’s do like yesterday. However in China working schedule is different. I can’t say Chinese are not working hard but concerning working hours it’s probably just shorter.
Btw, always take note of what particular locals are doing, Chinese people are nice but there are a lot of scams who'll be happy get your money
Concerning my experience in Shanghai. Shanghai is very modern and it's always very busy, there is always something to do, some new parties are going on or some new exhibitions to see. In the same time life in Shanghai is much cheaper compare to place where I came from. Metro system is very good it can usually get you wherever you need to go or very close to that place, taxi cabs usually are pretty cheap as well. Btw, food is fantastic, you can get very good meals here very cheap. It's also good place to try different fruits.
About agency. Gi2C definitely helps to reach gap in communication, helps with Chinese classes which can be quite helpful if you want to know the basics. It comes easier to adapt to the city after learning some basic Chinese. Gi2C also organized some social events where you can meet some new people and explore more about Chinese culture.
So after all my advice is: being here try to travel as much as possible, explore the culture so much as you can, it's maybe once in a lifetime opportunity so make the most of it.
There is always something to do in Shanghai
Review by: Michael- View profile
- Send message
, On: 15 Apr 2015, Changed On: 15 Apr 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programConcerning my experience in Shanghai. Shanghai is very modern and it's always very busy, there is always something to do, some new parties are going on or some new exhibitions to see. In the same time life in Shanghai is much cheaper compare to place where I came from. Metro system is very good it can usually get you wherever you need to go or very close to that place, taxi cabs usually are pretty cheap as well. Btw, food is fantastic, you can get very good meals here very cheap. It's also good place to try different fruits.
About agency. Gi2C definitely helps to reach gap in communication, helps with Chinese classes which can be quite helpful if you want to know the basics. It comes easier to adapt to the city after learning some basic Chinese. Gi2C also organized some social events where you can meet some new people and explore more about Chinese culture.
So after all my advice is: being here try to travel as much as possible, explore the culture so much as you can, it's maybe once in a lifetime opportunity so make the most of it.
China is great, it’s a bit colder than I used to but I got used to that. Beijing city is the place of contrasts. Often I’ve been walking down the street, saying “Wow, this place’s amazing, I really like it!” and then after turning round the corner I was thinking “What am I doing here in China?”, then turning another corner… OK, pollution here is tricky but the food and people are amazing. When you are having conversation with Chinese they are really genuine and nice people. My company has offices in Shanghai and Guangzhou as well so I want to check another big Chinese cities and go to Hong Kong and Taiwan.
China is great!
Review by: David- View profile
- Send message
, On: 14 Apr 2015, Changed On: 14 Apr 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programChina is great, it’s a bit colder than I used to but I got used to that. Beijing city is the place of contrasts. Often I’ve been walking down the street, saying “Wow, this place’s amazing, I really like it!” and then after turning round the corner I was thinking “What am I doing here in China?”, then turning another corner… OK, pollution here is tricky but the food and people are amazing. When you are having conversation with Chinese they are really genuine and nice people. My company has offices in Shanghai and Guangzhou as well so I want to check another big Chinese cities and go to Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Gi2C Business Management Internship review
Review by: Danny- View profile
- Send message
, On: 10 Apr 2015, Changed On: 10 Apr 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programI think like it’s the right platform, this internship, for the young professionals to start of your professional career. Working environment in China is really amazing, Chinese people are very dedicated, very hard working so it’s good to work with them. Every day you can learn something from them.
Marketing and Social Media intern in Shanghai
Review by: Vivek- View profile
- Send message
, On: 08 Apr 2015, Changed On: 08 Apr 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programI think like it’s the right platform, this internship, for the young professionals to start of your professional career. Working environment in China is really amazing, Chinese people are very dedicated, very hard working so it’s good to work with them. Every day you can learn something from them.
I’ve been wanted come to China because I wanted experience a life in Beijing and of course for to do the internship. I heard that a most of people from Europe and America who come here to do internship enjoy it because the life is cheap and most of time you even can attend some payment for the internship and it’s good benefit for you. People here are very nice, the city is quite big and even transportation from time to time can be scary because it’s very busy here, you have to fight to get on the transport. But Chinese are soft people and kind and nice to be honest. Chinese food is really nice too and there is healthy food as well, I can eat everything here, taste is nice to me and, well, food is really cheap here. Getting around in Beijing isn’t expensive at all and it’s really easy.
Accommodation provided by Gi2C is fine and very convenient. It’s shared accommodation, there were three of us, it’s full furnished modern flat, clean, we had cleaners coming twice in a week.
In my opinion internship is mostly important because of learning. You learn theory at school and university, and you have opportunity to put it to the practice during internship. When you are looking for a job you should be able to show in your CV that you already have experience. Without experience you can’t find a job. I’m happy that my company gave me proper project to do. I was doing internship at interior design so they gave me project which I had to design three bedroom flat in Beijing and they gave me choice to put my own personality there. We worked with team so we shared work but they gave me opportunity to do what I want to do, I appreciate it.
My Contemporary Arts and Design Internship in Beijing (Gi2C)
Review by: Eudoxia- View profile
- Send message
, On: 08 Apr 2015, Changed On: 08 Apr 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programI’ve been wanted come to China because I wanted experience a life in Beijing and of course for to do the internship. I heard that a most of people from Europe and America who come here to do internship enjoy it because the life is cheap and most of time you even can attend some payment for the internship and it’s good benefit for you. People here are very nice, the city is quite big and even transportation from time to time can be scary because it’s very busy here, you have to fight to get on the transport. But Chinese are soft people and kind and nice to be honest. Chinese food is really nice too and there is healthy food as well, I can eat everything here, taste is nice to me and, well, food is really cheap here. Getting around in Beijing isn’t expensive at all and it’s really easy.
Accommodation provided by Gi2C is fine and very convenient. It’s shared accommodation, there were three of us, it’s full furnished modern flat, clean, we had cleaners coming twice in a week.
In my opinion internship is mostly important because of learning. You learn theory at school and university, and you have opportunity to put it to the practice during internship. When you are looking for a job you should be able to show in your CV that you already have experience. Without experience you can’t find a job. I’m happy that my company gave me proper project to do. I was doing internship at interior design so they gave me project which I had to design three bedroom flat in Beijing and they gave me choice to put my own personality there. We worked with team so we shared work but they gave me opportunity to do what I want to do, I appreciate it.
Gi2C is definitely legitimate and I had an amazing experience while in China. I would recommend it. I would recommend any student go for the 2 or 3 month program. I did it. The first month you are settling in with your company and the second and third month is where you really begin to form professional relationships with your colleagues. No worries about language, each intern is assigned an English speaking supervisor even if company isn't foreign owned. It means the intern will always be able to communicate with someone in the company.
I'm more than OK with my company, but some of other interns have mixing feelings. I guess it can be lack of sense of reality or too big expactations. Life and work in China has nothing to do with our previous experience. Also some companies are just better than others, like in the states. Btw, Gi2C does a great job if you are not satisfied with your company helping you find suitable position to complete internship, I saw how they did it to my roommate.
I bet anyone with an open mind would love this opportunity. Btw, I received a really good recommendation and it helped improve my CV. So thank you guys from Gi2C, good job!
Thank you Gi2C
Review by: Lorrie- View profile
- Send message
, On: 04 Apr 2015, Changed On: 04 Apr 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programGi2C is definitely legitimate and I had an amazing experience while in China. I would recommend it. I would recommend any student go for the 2 or 3 month program. I did it. The first month you are settling in with your company and the second and third month is where you really begin to form professional relationships with your colleagues. No worries about language, each intern is assigned an English speaking supervisor even if company isn't foreign owned. It means the intern will always be able to communicate with someone in the company.
I'm more than OK with my company, but some of other interns have mixing feelings. I guess it can be lack of sense of reality or too big expactations. Life and work in China has nothing to do with our previous experience. Also some companies are just better than others, like in the states. Btw, Gi2C does a great job if you are not satisfied with your company helping you find suitable position to complete internship, I saw how they did it to my roommate.
I bet anyone with an open mind would love this opportunity. Btw, I received a really good recommendation and it helped improve my CV. So thank you guys from Gi2C, good job!
Feedback
Review by: Wil Alla- View profile
- Send message
, On: 04 Apr 2015, Changed On: 04 Apr 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programI stayed in a hostel the entire time I was in China so that I cannot comment on their living facilities. Gi2C seemed to have a good amount of Social Activities and Networking Events planned for their interns.
The direct support is the only good aspect I experienced while being in Beijing. I was able to get a hold of my contact person at Gi2C (almost) 24/7 with (almost) immediate support. In fact, all the employees in the Beijing office are really nice. During the orientation the interns get valuable information about the program and China as well.
I only clicked on the "no, I would not recommend this program" button, because of the misleading company presentation and the fact that Gi2C was not able to find me another fitting internship while I was in Beijing. However, I must say that I had very detailed requests for my internship so that it was hard for them to find me a new place within one and a half weeks. They really tried though!
I know that negative reviews are being read more often than positive ones. So, I want to make sure that my message is clear...
... Gi2C is not a bad agency, but be a little careful.
Gi2C is not a bad agency, but be careful!
Review by: Timo- View profile
- Send message
, On: 19 Mar 2015, Changed On: 19 Mar 2015 | No, I would not recommend this programI stayed in a hostel the entire time I was in China so that I cannot comment on their living facilities. Gi2C seemed to have a good amount of Social Activities and Networking Events planned for their interns.
The direct support is the only good aspect I experienced while being in Beijing. I was able to get a hold of my contact person at Gi2C (almost) 24/7 with (almost) immediate support. In fact, all the employees in the Beijing office are really nice. During the orientation the interns get valuable information about the program and China as well.
I only clicked on the "no, I would not recommend this program" button, because of the misleading company presentation and the fact that Gi2C was not able to find me another fitting internship while I was in Beijing. However, I must say that I had very detailed requests for my internship so that it was hard for them to find me a new place within one and a half weeks. They really tried though!
I know that negative reviews are being read more often than positive ones. So, I want to make sure that my message is clear...
... Gi2C is not a bad agency, but be a little careful.
I am lucky enough to have studied abroad before in Shanghai under another program to understand the cultural dynamics and the differences between Western and East Asian culture. This time around, I simply opted for the standard internship and not the premium package (going all in on cultural immersion) because I have done most of the cultural experiences already when studying in Shanghai. I am also able to find my own place to live as well as attend independent social events. However, I felt like there should have been a few, if not some, social events coordinated by the program, to enhance the program experience and to unite participants for the time being - help them (us) to be more well connected. It should not have been additional costs, but a part of the program features and benefits.
INTERNSHIP REVIEW
I like the opportunity of the company that I have completed my internship with, but I just wished that there were more technical skills to be gained from the internship rather than presenting skills. Initially, it took a good 3 months for me to secure a good internship I was looking for, so it took some time and patience. I am satisfied with the internship experience with the company - I did 1 month. I suggest doing 3 months if you are looking for employment with your company and it gives them time, to see if you are a good fit.
Beijing Marketing Consultant Internship Review
Review by: Tiffany Dun- View profile
- Send message
, On: 27 Feb 2015, Changed On: 27 Feb 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programI am lucky enough to have studied abroad before in Shanghai under another program to understand the cultural dynamics and the differences between Western and East Asian culture. This time around, I simply opted for the standard internship and not the premium package (going all in on cultural immersion) because I have done most of the cultural experiences already when studying in Shanghai. I am also able to find my own place to live as well as attend independent social events. However, I felt like there should have been a few, if not some, social events coordinated by the program, to enhance the program experience and to unite participants for the time being - help them (us) to be more well connected. It should not have been additional costs, but a part of the program features and benefits.
INTERNSHIP REVIEW
I like the opportunity of the company that I have completed my internship with, but I just wished that there were more technical skills to be gained from the internship rather than presenting skills. Initially, it took a good 3 months for me to secure a good internship I was looking for, so it took some time and patience. I am satisfied with the internship experience with the company - I did 1 month. I suggest doing 3 months if you are looking for employment with your company and it gives them time, to see if you are a good fit.
Although the website does state all the relevant information it is very hard to read and some of it very misleading. My examples being:
- Accommodation - the pictures look great but it never states that you will be sharing with others (I thought I would have a studio apartment to myself, especially after paying so much) and to make it worse I was staying with two girls who actually live in Beijing, yes they used to be interns but they had no enthusiasm in exploring Beijing as they had been living there for ages
- Payment - the information was spread across a few different pages so I was confused about the different costs and added fees (as some feedback it would be great to put all of the costing's together just to make it easier to understand)
- Networking Events - only being in Beijing for a month may have had something to do with it but I was only offered one networking option to attend and this event was aimed at the finance and commerce sector which is basically useless when I am a marketing graduate - well out of my field
- Charity Volunteering Day - didn't attend (guessing it will be organized after I have gone)
- Language Lessons - I had pre paid these lessons before coming to China but once in China I knew that with my work hours, the long time it takes to use the Subway and the late nights after finishing lessons that I just wasn't going to be able to keep up with it all. My name wasn't even on the teachers list for language classes and GI2C hadn't even paid the school for my lessons but I wasn't able to get a refund. I am well aware that this is in the terms and conditions on their website but the owner at the language school advised us that she is often saying that language lessons are too much for interns to keep up with but GI2C still recommends them when they really shouldn't be. Another intern in the same program as me also had the same difficulty which is really unfortunate as it ruins the whole experience of learning a new language and also makes the language school look bad
- Getting to the Introduction Day - once dropped at my accommodation it was suggested to me that I should catch a taxi in the morning to GI2C for the introduction day as it would be quicker than the Subway and I wouldn't need to stumble my way through getting to know the Subway. Sounded like a great idea except for the fact that taxi drivers don't like picking up international people. Not only did I have to use the Subway anyway (which was super simple and was what I was prepared to do in the first place!) but I was nearly 30 minutes late to my first day. Not a nice feeling!
On positive notes:
- Accommodation - was in a nice area and they were serviced twice a week so kept quite clean and saved me from washing my own towels, sheets etc. The owner even pointed me in the direction of an international supermarket so I cold buy a few things (with English writing on the packs) to get me through until I learnt the area and some of the language
- Airport pickup - was as described. Tommy was waiting there with a GI2C sign that was easy to see and I was taken straight to my accommodation
- Internship placement - the company was as described
- Welcome package - received this at the introduction day (would have been nice to get some info on the phone package that is offered - had to ask a Chinese person at work to explain what the contract was)
- Visa assistance - they supplied a letter and a detailed description of what to put on the application
- Duck dinner - was delicious
- Orientation and city tour - was a good experience
- Great Wall Tour - was amazing (unfortunately the tour driver was three hours late at picking us up - nothing that GI2C could do to prevent this as it was organized through an outsourced company)
- Karaoke Night (KTV) - still yet to attend (tomorrow night)
- Check-in emails were sent and we were constantly advised to make contact with GI2C if we had any issues
My company seemed like a really nice place but it is not targeted towards my field of work - Marketing. I received my first offer but declined it because it wasn't marketing orientated in which the company came back with a revised list of responsibilities which were better targeted towards my interests. Little did GI2C or myself know that it would normally take a month to complete these tasks, whereas it only took me just over a week so they had nothing else for me to do. I did ask if I could sit with the marketing team in the office but they are all Chinese so I would have no way to understand them. The tasks they give to interns is based around tax, international property purchase and visa applications - so again well out of my depth. I wish I had picked up on this sooner I could have changed company's earlier to better suit my needs but that wasn't something that either GI2C or I could see coming and being in my last week there wasn't much that could be done which is totally understandable.
However, from the group that started at the same time as me I know of at least two others who have had to change company's which is not such a great sign!
Overall I feel that the one month package is not worth it. If you want to actually have tasks to do at work and to be able to take it all in then you need to spend at least 2 months in China. I really don't know why the 1 month package is even available. For me it has been a waste of time and money considering how expensive the 1 month package is and how many things I didn't get to do. Although the internship will look great on my resume I haven't actually learn anything new, expect for the really odd culture of the Chinese!
1 month internship
Review by: Amy- View profile
- Send message
, On: 05 Feb 2015, Changed On: 05 Feb 2015 | No, I would not recommend this programAlthough the website does state all the relevant information it is very hard to read and some of it very misleading. My examples being:
- Accommodation - the pictures look great but it never states that you will be sharing with others (I thought I would have a studio apartment to myself, especially after paying so much) and to make it worse I was staying with two girls who actually live in Beijing, yes they used to be interns but they had no enthusiasm in exploring Beijing as they had been living there for ages
- Payment - the information was spread across a few different pages so I was confused about the different costs and added fees (as some feedback it would be great to put all of the costing's together just to make it easier to understand)
- Networking Events - only being in Beijing for a month may have had something to do with it but I was only offered one networking option to attend and this event was aimed at the finance and commerce sector which is basically useless when I am a marketing graduate - well out of my field
- Charity Volunteering Day - didn't attend (guessing it will be organized after I have gone)
- Language Lessons - I had pre paid these lessons before coming to China but once in China I knew that with my work hours, the long time it takes to use the Subway and the late nights after finishing lessons that I just wasn't going to be able to keep up with it all. My name wasn't even on the teachers list for language classes and GI2C hadn't even paid the school for my lessons but I wasn't able to get a refund. I am well aware that this is in the terms and conditions on their website but the owner at the language school advised us that she is often saying that language lessons are too much for interns to keep up with but GI2C still recommends them when they really shouldn't be. Another intern in the same program as me also had the same difficulty which is really unfortunate as it ruins the whole experience of learning a new language and also makes the language school look bad
- Getting to the Introduction Day - once dropped at my accommodation it was suggested to me that I should catch a taxi in the morning to GI2C for the introduction day as it would be quicker than the Subway and I wouldn't need to stumble my way through getting to know the Subway. Sounded like a great idea except for the fact that taxi drivers don't like picking up international people. Not only did I have to use the Subway anyway (which was super simple and was what I was prepared to do in the first place!) but I was nearly 30 minutes late to my first day. Not a nice feeling!
On positive notes:
- Accommodation - was in a nice area and they were serviced twice a week so kept quite clean and saved me from washing my own towels, sheets etc. The owner even pointed me in the direction of an international supermarket so I cold buy a few things (with English writing on the packs) to get me through until I learnt the area and some of the language
- Airport pickup - was as described. Tommy was waiting there with a GI2C sign that was easy to see and I was taken straight to my accommodation
- Internship placement - the company was as described
- Welcome package - received this at the introduction day (would have been nice to get some info on the phone package that is offered - had to ask a Chinese person at work to explain what the contract was)
- Visa assistance - they supplied a letter and a detailed description of what to put on the application
- Duck dinner - was delicious
- Orientation and city tour - was a good experience
- Great Wall Tour - was amazing (unfortunately the tour driver was three hours late at picking us up - nothing that GI2C could do to prevent this as it was organized through an outsourced company)
- Karaoke Night (KTV) - still yet to attend (tomorrow night)
- Check-in emails were sent and we were constantly advised to make contact with GI2C if we had any issues
My company seemed like a really nice place but it is not targeted towards my field of work - Marketing. I received my first offer but declined it because it wasn't marketing orientated in which the company came back with a revised list of responsibilities which were better targeted towards my interests. Little did GI2C or myself know that it would normally take a month to complete these tasks, whereas it only took me just over a week so they had nothing else for me to do. I did ask if I could sit with the marketing team in the office but they are all Chinese so I would have no way to understand them. The tasks they give to interns is based around tax, international property purchase and visa applications - so again well out of my depth. I wish I had picked up on this sooner I could have changed company's earlier to better suit my needs but that wasn't something that either GI2C or I could see coming and being in my last week there wasn't much that could be done which is totally understandable.
However, from the group that started at the same time as me I know of at least two others who have had to change company's which is not such a great sign!
Overall I feel that the one month package is not worth it. If you want to actually have tasks to do at work and to be able to take it all in then you need to spend at least 2 months in China. I really don't know why the 1 month package is even available. For me it has been a waste of time and money considering how expensive the 1 month package is and how many things I didn't get to do. Although the internship will look great on my resume I haven't actually learn anything new, expect for the really odd culture of the Chinese!
It is very troubling to us as company when any of our participants are not fully satisfied. But not because of the things we can control, but by the things that are not in our control, like the taxi driver not stopping to take on a passenger or working hours being to long preventing one from attending language lessons or not having a networking event that can cater to every specific field of interest every time at the same time. And this is not said sarcastically but in all sincerity of wanting to give all our participant everything they want exactly as they want it. If there is any chance of this happening while still remaining a business we surely pursue this option. So our apologies go out to you and we thank you for your feedback and giving us a chance to be even better.
The internship company is a small start-up company, and the colleagues were very nice to me. In the beginning I had very much to do, but then the workload was ok.
I didn't participate in any social activities, so I can't say very much about it. But I do feel the price was too expansive. If you are not a premium package holder, you have to pay for each activity.
one month in Beijing
Review by: Qian Wu- View profile
- Send message
, On: 04 Feb 2015, Changed On: 04 Feb 2015 | No, I would not recommend this programThe internship company is a small start-up company, and the colleagues were very nice to me. In the beginning I had very much to do, but then the workload was ok.
I didn't participate in any social activities, so I can't say very much about it. But I do feel the price was too expansive. If you are not a premium package holder, you have to pay for each activity.
Internship
Review by: Tahnoon- View profile
- Send message
, On: 13 Jan 2015, Changed On: 13 Jan 2015 | No, I would not recommend this programGood experience, efficient service, little expensive.
Good
Review by: Andrea Antonioni- View profile
- Send message
, On: 13 Jan 2015, Changed On: 13 Jan 2015 | Yes, I would recommend this programGood experience, efficient service, little expensive.
A Great Experience
Review by: naabi- View profile
- Send message
, On: 10 Dec 2014, Changed On: 10 Dec 2014 | Yes, I would recommend this programMy experience in Beijing was, above all, a great contribution to my personal development. I met some great people, I visited some cool places and I had to 'deal with' the Chinese culture. For me, Beijing is too crazy, too crowded but I enjoyed it for a few months. And GI2C was there when I needed them.
Crazy but valuable
Review by: Shni- View profile
- Send message
, On: 10 Nov 2014, Changed On: 10 Nov 2014 | Yes, I would recommend this programMy experience in Beijing was, above all, a great contribution to my personal development. I met some great people, I visited some cool places and I had to 'deal with' the Chinese culture. For me, Beijing is too crazy, too crowded but I enjoyed it for a few months. And GI2C was there when I needed them.
Well, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect when I came here -- but I got it! Job experience, language lessons, sightseeing and travel opportunities, personal growth, networking: it's all here and more (I'm probably forgetting something!)
When I was researching internships and I came across Gi2C, I was a little skeptical that I could not find any negative comments (constructive feedback, ya know). To be honest, I had my "ups and downs" here, but the program pretty much delivered as it states in the terms of the agreement. What you need in coming to China is an open-mind and a willingness to embrace differences. Oh yeah, and I did not find out until two days into the program, but you also need to buy a VPN! And if you're using an Apple phone, you should be pretty well covered. I use Android exclusively though, and ran into tech difficulties: I bought my phone here (so I wouldn't have to wait on my American phone being unlocked), and then it turns out it's an off-brand Samsung model that is not supported by Google Play. So, all those American (ENGLISH!) apps that I wanted and could have used were not available. I never did quite arrive at the solution, so do your research on phone use and internet use before you come!
Gi2C: Gateway to Another World
Review by: jk5702- View profile
- Send message
, On: 01 Sep 2014, Changed On: 01 Sep 2014 | Yes, I would recommend this programWell, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect when I came here -- but I got it! Job experience, language lessons, sightseeing and travel opportunities, personal growth, networking: it's all here and more (I'm probably forgetting something!)
When I was researching internships and I came across Gi2C, I was a little skeptical that I could not find any negative comments (constructive feedback, ya know). To be honest, I had my "ups and downs" here, but the program pretty much delivered as it states in the terms of the agreement. What you need in coming to China is an open-mind and a willingness to embrace differences. Oh yeah, and I did not find out until two days into the program, but you also need to buy a VPN! And if you're using an Apple phone, you should be pretty well covered. I use Android exclusively though, and ran into tech difficulties: I bought my phone here (so I wouldn't have to wait on my American phone being unlocked), and then it turns out it's an off-brand Samsung model that is not supported by Google Play. So, all those American (ENGLISH!) apps that I wanted and could have used were not available. I never did quite arrive at the solution, so do your research on phone use and internet use before you come!
My experience with GI2C has been great. They are very helpful and there for you when you need them. I have been enjoying my time here in China and would recommend this experience for those looking for work and an adventure.
Interning with GI2C
Review by: BrianRojas- View profile
- Send message
, On: 15 Aug 2014, Changed On: 15 Aug 2014 | Yes, I would recommend this programMy experience with GI2C has been great. They are very helpful and there for you when you need them. I have been enjoying my time here in China and would recommend this experience for those looking for work and an adventure.
i thank GI2C for giving me such an awesome opportunity to get an exposure,skill as well as experience for my career in mechanical designing,i would recommend this program to my fellow friends,colleagues and other interns to join it,as it will give them great opportunities they would never get easily.
mr brilliant shoba
Review by: brlliant Shoba- View profile
- Send message
, On: 15 Aug 2014, Changed On: 15 Aug 2014 | Yes, I would recommend this programi thank GI2C for giving me such an awesome opportunity to get an exposure,skill as well as experience for my career in mechanical designing,i would recommend this program to my fellow friends,colleagues and other interns to join it,as it will give them great opportunities they would never get easily.