Through this internship, I gained a deeper understanding of Chinese work culture, which in turn helped me better appreciate my parents’ professional experiences, as they continue to work in China. I now recognize the subtle pressures they navigate daily, from maintaining respectful communication with superiors to balancing personal and professional commitments in a culture where work and social life are deeply intertwined. Experiencing these dynamics firsthand gave me a newfound appreciation for their resilience and adaptability. This experience not only deepened my connection to my cultural roots but also enhanced my ability to adapt to different work environments. Moving forward, I will carry these insights with me, especially as I pursue international relations, where cultural awareness and adaptability are crucial.
This internship gave me profound insight into Chinese work culture, helping me understand my parents' professional lives in China—from navigating workplace hierarchies to balancing work-life boundaries in a culture where they're deeply intertwined. This firsthand experience not only strengthened my cultural roots but also prepared me for a career in international relations, where such cultural understanding is essential.