China’s emergence as a superpower has significant implications for Sino-American relations, which in turn impact the whole world. Advancing the best interests of both countries and the international community will require global-minded servant-leaders to envision and effect changes in the world. These leaders must have professional expertise, but they also need international competencies such as cross-cultural sensitivity, communication skills, and a commitment to service.In response to this need, PESI has created the China Intercultural Studies Program (CISP) — a summer study abroad experience for American students to learn about 21st century China. We want to help cultivate future leaders in business, education, international development and relations, law, social service, etc. who will promote positive and productive relations between these two great nations.Cross-cultural competence and servant-leadership based on a spirit of humility are core values cultivated by our CIS Program that offers the following features:We partner with China’s top universities in colorful mega cities — Tsinghua in Beijing and Fudan in Shanghai.Educational excursions, community service projects, and meetings with professionals in business, technology, education, health service, etc. help students catch a vision for international careers.IBM in Shanghai Our China study program offers courses in Language, History, Culture & Society, International Relations & Economics, etc. Credits from prestigious Chinese host universities are transferable to U.S. institutions.Study program students are instructed in English by Chinese faculty and local professionals to acquire a Chinese perspective. They are also mentored by an American resident director to help them process what they learn.Unlike “island programs” where American students are just among themselves, CISP students interact with local young people and Chinese students at the host institutions to enhance cross-cultural learning.Summer 2007: With limited enrollment as a first-year program, we had one program at Fudan University. An excellent cohort of students came from Austin, Berkeley, Rice, Stanford, University of Toronto, USC, etc. with an average GPA of 3.76 from their home institutions. The course participants gave the program an overall satisfaction score of 4.85 out of a maximum of 5.Plans for CISP 2008: We will have a 4-week program in May—June at Tsinghua and a 6-week program in June—August at Fudan to accommodate students who start their summers early or late.The Ping & Amy Chao Family Foundation has donated generous scholarships for CISP students based on merit and need.

2/5/2008 4:56 PM to 12/31/2008 5:56 PM

Culture

Education and Academia, International Cooperation