Journal for family visit of UBS MBA

Apr 18-2013   

writer/Guannan Xu 

        September 22th is the Mid-Autumn Festival. Having completed market research, students of University of Stellenbosch Business School carried out their family visit activity.

        As a translator, I accompanied with Richard Tomes, Mzimasi Tshikila and Martin Vleggaar to visit Xin Yang (staff of National School of Development, Peking University) ’s family. We were welcomed warmly by the whole family. In addition to moon cakes and fruits, the grandparents cooked Sichuan dumplings and dishes for us. The family also prepared the Beijing roast duck, smoked fish and so on. The cute child played saxophone to welcome us. He also installed a telescope for foreign friends to enjoy the moon.

        After a brief introduction, we had bit unfamiliar feelings with each other and began a joyful chat, which ranged from climates, diets to lifestyles of the two countries. South African students also exchanged their ideas on international trade and exchange rates with us. 
The grandfather happened to have his birthday that day. Taking the delicious birthday cake, the South African students wished the elderly health and longevity in a unique way of their country.

        Students of University of Stellenbosch Business School said the family visit was not only a culinary journey, but also making them step into the real life of Chinese people. During the celebration of the Chinese traditional festival they experienced the rich Chinese traditional culture, local customs and strong family concept.

        Despite language and cultural differences, the South African students and we Chinese had become good friends. They took photos with the family to commemorate this unforgettable trip and invited us to revisit them. Finally, in an enjoyable atmosphere, Students of University of Stellenbosch Business School accomplished the family visit successfully.