Tell us a little about yourself.

I am from the Hawaiian island of Oahu and received my Associates Degree from Windward Community College.  I then transferred to Washington University in St. Louis and intend to graduate in May 2009 with a Dual Degree; Mandarin Chinese from the College of Arts and Sciences and International Business from the Olin Business School.  In order to accelerate my Chinese language studies and experience China’s culture first-hand, I spent two summers in China participating in an intensive Chinese language program.  I hope to utilize the language and business skills I’ve learned to facilitate cross-cultural understanding and communication.

Why did you apply to this program?

I applied to this program because it provides me with a unique opportunity to study and learn in Washington, D.C. and to participate in an intensive program that focuses on cross-cultural awareness and bilateral trade between the U.S. and China.  I have had the opportunity and pleasure to experience China’s culture first-hand as well as learn the profit maximizing business practices of U.S. companies.  This experience brings both elements to the table, thereby providing a more effective learning experience to observe and study the U.S.-China relationship.

Please identify the single aspect of U.S.-China relations in which you are most interested.

I am particularly interested in U.S.-China relations regarding trade and foreign policy and how this relationship will affect future investment, economic growth, sustainable development, and innovation in both countries. 

What are your top professional goals?  What do you want to accomplish during your internship?

My professional goals are to integrate my studies in international business and languages with my interests to travel and explore different cultures abroad and choose a career that complements these skills and interests.  I hope to further my education in cross-cultural understanding through my participation in this program and utilize my skills to forge a stronger relationship between the U.S. and China.    

How will the U.S.-China Bilateral Trade Internship Program help you and your country in the future?

This program is the foundation on which I hope to build my skills as an arbitrator, negotiator, and peace maker.  In my career, I hope to utilize these skills in diplomacy, cultural understanding, conflict resolution, and negotiations to improve diplomatic relations between international powers and the United States.