Whenever one travels, there are always those tidbits of information picked up that are most interesting. I have noted a few concerning the students during the past weeks and thought it was time to share.
Every October the campus has a blood drive and the Red Cross comes in to set up. Earlier this week, the long lines were in place for donating blood. Apparently, all students are required to donate blood once during their years at USST; it is part of their social commitment. The caveat is that students get three days off from classes when they do this. I don't know if students have to work around tests and such, but I do know that class attendance drops during late October. That just provides them with more time to play video games, which is...
One of the fastest growing addictions here, an addiction to video games among the young adults. This addiction begins at the university level as students have indicated that they didn't do this while in their other schooling. A measure to counter this is that electricity is turned off in the dorms at 11:30 in the evening. Apparently when this was first done, there was quite a student uprising. With no electricity that also means no studying. No wonder I still hear the sounds of them playing basketball in the middle of the night. But whether it is the basketball courts, the soccer fields, or the track, there are no outdoor lights. All are played in natural light or darkness. That is one way to save on the energy bill.
With a Communist government, support is provided the population at many levels. For students, the food costs related to their meals in the cafeteria are subsidized, which significantly lowers their cost. On a yearly basis, about 4000 yuan is spent by the students for food, about 700 yuan for books, 1200 yuan for the dorm, and about 20,000 yuan for tuitiion. Divide that by about 7 to convert to U.S. dollars. Though the food costs may be low, if you are not there when the food is put out, you will be eating it cold. There are no such things as warmers or refrigeration units. Food could be sitting out for three hours before the last ones eat. A metal tray filled with rice is provided, and the other items are personally selected. Each item has a cost and the cafeteria smart card is scanned after selections are made. I have eaten there twice (they have about five cafeterias) and they are not on my list of favorites.
Only $100 for textbooks for the year, what a deal! That may not even buy one book at home. But you must remember that most textbooks are copied as they don't believe in copyright protection; remember, what is yours, is theirs. The copied black-and-white textbook has a plain paperback cover and the cost must just cover the printing. There is nothing to brag about concerning dorm living either. Two bunk beds for four (maybe four feet between the beds) are placed in a small room with a desk and chair. The mattresses are about three inches thick, and I am sure just as comfortable as mine. Students often go to another building to take their communal showers. Add the clothes hanging around the room that are drying (remember there are no clothes dryers) and you have a nice cozy environment.
Students also have to take tests to determine which university they are allowed to go to. USST is considered a tier two university. Preference is given to Shanghai individuals before those outside the city. Those outside of Shanghai need to score higher on their exams in order to qualify. Students also have little freedom with the classes they must take. A cohort of students will follow through their four years, taking almost all of their classes together. They are envious of the freedom of choice that American students have.
There is a fitness area here on campus but it is a far cry from the Wellness Center at UND. I will post a photo later to share with you their technology in fitness equipment. They are very rudimentary in nature; the treadmill looks like one of those circular cages that mice run in. Running on top of the cage provides the treadmill. The stairmaster is also a pre-, pre-, prototype.
Witnessing life in this developing country provides a pull back to realism. For us, so much is taken for granted, and then the expectation is that we want more. For some students, all they talk about is coming to America to have opportunities and to live a lifestyle that we so boldly display. Is it so good that we flaunt our way of life and breed other materialistic cultures?
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Amateur Photographer on the Loose
We were eating at Malone's, so it must be Saturday. A rainy Saturday, which was welcome. The humidity has lifted slightly with the rains which has been a welcome relief. Rain did not appear to limit the number of people that were on the streets or shopping on a Saturday afternoon.
There was a new stop for us today. Nichole Tiggs Williams, a recent UND Masters of Public Administration graduate, arrived last week to teach oral English for four months. We headed for the fabric market as she was looking to have a bridal dress made. From a person who in another life has tailored and designed clothing, I was in my element. The cashmere and silks were eye candy. The construction was impeccable. Hand-done padstitching for lapels, Hong Kong finishes on lining seams, all were flawless. Double-sided cashmere wraps could be custom made for 1200 RMB, a suit of worsted wool for 400 RMB, or a man's cashmere topcoat for 600 RMB. All were bargains. Something caught my eye as I was leaving so I may have to make a trip back. The bridal custom shops were close by so we visited several. Simplicity of design in bridal wear is not the common theme here. It seems the more, the better. We found out that the average price of a wedding here is around 100,000 RMB and Jessica (the Dean's secretary) was at a wedding last weekend that cost 600,000 RMB (remember to divide by 7 to get a rough conversion to U.S. dollars). It gives new meaning to the word elope.
Nanjing Road was one of our walking stops; this is a major shopping environment for locals and tourists alike. I was on the lookout for the sign that Josh had helped design and install for Daktronics in 2006. And then all of a sudden, I was at the corner and its dominance was clearly visible. Such a proud feeling came over me to witness something he had contributed to in another part of the world that literally billions of people will see throughout the years to come.
In our walk back to the Metro, I couldn't help but take a photo of a Nike wanna-be. Another illustration of 'what is yours, is theirs' philosophy. It is not the Nike swoosh, but it wants to be as noted by the slogan, "Anything is possible;" 'just do it,' right?
In the News
It has been interesting to witness how a Communist government frames issues in the news. The positioning of the Chinese government in the midst of the financial shakedown that is happening across the globe has been particularly amusing.
On the news programs, officials indicate that China's economy is strong and should still see an annual growth of its GDP of around nine percent. In fact, the thought is that China should be the foundation of the financial markets rather than the United States. Yet, 2.4 trillion yuan has vanished this year in China's market. The next evening, there is a story regarding the closing of factories because of the reduced demand, particularly from the United States. In Guangzhou, toy factories are closing because the orders from Disney and Mattel have dried up. Most of their demand, 70 to 90 percent, is from these companies. Management cannot be found and employees are left stranded without having been paid.
The housing market is also in a slump. The real estate bubble is evident here, too, and housing prices are expected to fall 10 to 20 percent. Primary housing would be apartments as houses are not within the realm of the majority. As prices have escalated, affordable housing is in demand. To stimulate the housing market, the government will implement changes on November 1 to mortgages. The stamp tax will be eliminated and the contract tax will be reduced from 1.5 to 1 percent. Down payments, which in the past needed to be 30 percent, now will be lowered to 20 percent. All of these changes apply to what the government classifies as "ordinary residences," which account for only 20 percent of the total. Their residential classifications are based on square meters. The down payment reduction is thought to be the most significant measure to reduce the entry barrier.
'Perception is reality' is evident with the interpretation of business practices, too. Microsoft announced that is was cracking down on counterfeit software by beginning a blackout of the program when updates were requested. Counterfeit programs of Microsoft abound over here; in fact, that is what is on the computer I use in the faculty office. In China, what is yours, is theirs. An article in the newspaper had the position that what Microsoft was doing was illegal; that it was violating laws and was following practices of a monopoly. There was no mention of the violation of copyright laws; but then in China, there is no such thing.
With the debate in the presidential race in the U.S. regarding the degree of regulation wanted by businesses and consumers, and how deregulation of the financial markets may have spurred the financial meltdown, it makes one think what is the right answer that balances support with protection without the pendulum swinging in one direction or the other.
On the news programs, officials indicate that China's economy is strong and should still see an annual growth of its GDP of around nine percent. In fact, the thought is that China should be the foundation of the financial markets rather than the United States. Yet, 2.4 trillion yuan has vanished this year in China's market. The next evening, there is a story regarding the closing of factories because of the reduced demand, particularly from the United States. In Guangzhou, toy factories are closing because the orders from Disney and Mattel have dried up. Most of their demand, 70 to 90 percent, is from these companies. Management cannot be found and employees are left stranded without having been paid.
The housing market is also in a slump. The real estate bubble is evident here, too, and housing prices are expected to fall 10 to 20 percent. Primary housing would be apartments as houses are not within the realm of the majority. As prices have escalated, affordable housing is in demand. To stimulate the housing market, the government will implement changes on November 1 to mortgages. The stamp tax will be eliminated and the contract tax will be reduced from 1.5 to 1 percent. Down payments, which in the past needed to be 30 percent, now will be lowered to 20 percent. All of these changes apply to what the government classifies as "ordinary residences," which account for only 20 percent of the total. Their residential classifications are based on square meters. The down payment reduction is thought to be the most significant measure to reduce the entry barrier.
'Perception is reality' is evident with the interpretation of business practices, too. Microsoft announced that is was cracking down on counterfeit software by beginning a blackout of the program when updates were requested. Counterfeit programs of Microsoft abound over here; in fact, that is what is on the computer I use in the faculty office. In China, what is yours, is theirs. An article in the newspaper had the position that what Microsoft was doing was illegal; that it was violating laws and was following practices of a monopoly. There was no mention of the violation of copyright laws; but then in China, there is no such thing.
With the debate in the presidential race in the U.S. regarding the degree of regulation wanted by businesses and consumers, and how deregulation of the financial markets may have spurred the financial meltdown, it makes one think what is the right answer that balances support with protection without the pendulum swinging in one direction or the other.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Street Vendors
Walking the streets of Shanghai can make a person feel desired. But it is only regarding your attention and your money. The street vendors are clamoring for you to stop and acknowledge what they have to peddle. What they sell and how aggressive they are in doing so has varied by location within the city.
When downtown, it has mainly been individuals trying to sell the Rolex for about 20 RMB or yuan, about $3.50. What a bargain! I just knew they were overpriced. They stand on street corners, follow you walking, and grab the arm. The true hard sell approach. Food vendors are not in the more upscale shopping area, only those who sell the higher-end counterfeit goods.
Near USST, the environment is entirely different. Street vendors abound and serve the locals. Fresh produce are either in carts or laid out on the streets for selection. Every kind of fruit and vegetable you could think of (and some I had no idea what they were) were available. One item had pyramid-type spikes all over its odd shape. When traveling, I only buy what I can peel so I took it safe and bought more oranges.
Even meat is out in the open, and it is not on ice. Walking by the beef, pork, and chicken that has been out in the elements for a while, with no type of refrigeration, has its own distinct aroma. The pace quickened. Fresh fish, still in the water, can be selected for the evening meal. It will even be gutted for you as you wait. Hairy crabs were being wrapped up for someone else's table.
There was a large, open indoor market that was more of the same; each area specializing in a different type of food. Here one could buy the live chicken if so desired. Different types of breads were also available, and at one bakery stall, there appeared to be oatmeal cookies!
If you want to eat on the street, again, lots of options are available. Different types of fried bread sandwiches, stir fry, grilled or fried kabobs, baked sweet potatoes, caramel corn...quite a selection. The downside is that these ingredients have been sitting out in the open, the time factor unknown, so there is a risk involved with the meat and eggs that are used (at least from my stomach's perspective). The caramel corn is made with an old stir popper and sugar is added when it is popping. It is quite good, and sticky, as that was what Mel had been on the lookout for.
Maybe I will get brave before I leave and try some of the street food. If only I could find a USDA inspection stamp somewhere!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
The Tube
I must be dating myself, as I don't think many people still call television, 'the tube.' But the viewing options here in China in this medium in English, have the same limitations as when televisions actually had a tube within them.
There are basically two channels for English viewing. CCTv9 is the news channel that covers the world scene, and then there is ics, which offers other programming. I am thought by Mel and Elmeda to have special privileges, or be royalty, as they only receive the news channel. Though the other day, they were able to receive ics for a short time in their humble abode.
I watch CCTv9 to keep abreast of news in the States, and of course, the financial crisis around the globe. I have been impressed of the global coverage of this issue and they spend quite a bit of time on the European markets and that of Japan. Once in a while, Bush appears on the screen, but not often. The view is that the U.S. did not do enough to bail out its institutions.
The ics channel has been the most interesting to watch in the evening and on a weekend morning. The choice of programs was surprising in comparison to what was on when I was here in January. In January, National Geographic (with a China focus) and documentaries on China were pervasive. Now, Project Runway, Funniest Home Videos, and Amazing Race are popular. The Funniest Home Videos is all U.S. clips with a local host, who is not Chinese. There have also been a few old movies, and I mean old. Gregory Peck and Shelley Winters, in their early days, and an old western have graced the screen.
There is a local cooking show, You are the Chef, where I have learned about the hairy crab. It is in season now and apparently in demand by locals and visitors in the fine restaurants. I can spot a female from a male, not that this will be useful knowledge upon my return. The female host of the show links up with a chef in a restaurant and shows the viewers how to prepare some great dish, even taking a trip to the grocery store to get the ingredients and informing the viewers what to look for. Similar to back home, viewers can log on to the show's website and get the recipe.
Learning about Chinese beer, wine, poetry, art, and mythology have also been part of my education. They are done via a talk show format, bringing in individuals with noted expertise in the areas.
What is going on in the entertainment field is just as popular here as back home. Most evenings there are clips regarding movie and music artists and what they are attending, or their newest release. I can still keep tabs on Paris Hilton if she were on my list of people to watch. There have been two specials regarding Michael Jackson, providing a biography of him through the videos that he released over the years.
Programming is interrupted often back home with commercials and it is no different here. I have been taking notes, but that is another blog.
There are basically two channels for English viewing. CCTv9 is the news channel that covers the world scene, and then there is ics, which offers other programming. I am thought by Mel and Elmeda to have special privileges, or be royalty, as they only receive the news channel. Though the other day, they were able to receive ics for a short time in their humble abode.
I watch CCTv9 to keep abreast of news in the States, and of course, the financial crisis around the globe. I have been impressed of the global coverage of this issue and they spend quite a bit of time on the European markets and that of Japan. Once in a while, Bush appears on the screen, but not often. The view is that the U.S. did not do enough to bail out its institutions.
The ics channel has been the most interesting to watch in the evening and on a weekend morning. The choice of programs was surprising in comparison to what was on when I was here in January. In January, National Geographic (with a China focus) and documentaries on China were pervasive. Now, Project Runway, Funniest Home Videos, and Amazing Race are popular. The Funniest Home Videos is all U.S. clips with a local host, who is not Chinese. There have also been a few old movies, and I mean old. Gregory Peck and Shelley Winters, in their early days, and an old western have graced the screen.
There is a local cooking show, You are the Chef, where I have learned about the hairy crab. It is in season now and apparently in demand by locals and visitors in the fine restaurants. I can spot a female from a male, not that this will be useful knowledge upon my return. The female host of the show links up with a chef in a restaurant and shows the viewers how to prepare some great dish, even taking a trip to the grocery store to get the ingredients and informing the viewers what to look for. Similar to back home, viewers can log on to the show's website and get the recipe.
Learning about Chinese beer, wine, poetry, art, and mythology have also been part of my education. They are done via a talk show format, bringing in individuals with noted expertise in the areas.
What is going on in the entertainment field is just as popular here as back home. Most evenings there are clips regarding movie and music artists and what they are attending, or their newest release. I can still keep tabs on Paris Hilton if she were on my list of people to watch. There have been two specials regarding Michael Jackson, providing a biography of him through the videos that he released over the years.
Programming is interrupted often back home with commercials and it is no different here. I have been taking notes, but that is another blog.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Getting to Know the Students
It has been interesting getting to know the students here at the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology. They are very eager to practice their English and learn about the United States, as many either want to pursue more education or work in the U.S.
My class has 61 students but I probably have about 45 that show up for each class. The other students either do not know English very well so only study from the textbook, or others may be taking a class at the same time. Apparently here, a student can take a class that overlaps with another. Part of the problem may be that the other courses run for about five months (the term ends in January) and then visiting professors come in to teach for a shorter time period so class times may dovetail one another.
My teaching times also vary with the day, along with the room I am teaching in. I have two meeting times on Monday, 9:55-11:40 a.m. and 1:00-2:40 p.m. Tuesday, class is at 2:50-4:30 p.m. Friday the class meets again at 9:55-11:40 a.m. A bell rings to start the class and class is held for 45 minutes and then a bell rings for a 10 minute break. Another bell to end the break and finish the last 45 minutes of class, which ends with another bell.
My classrooms are equipped with technology but all is secured in a locked metal cabinet. About five minutes before class the cabinet is automatically unlocked (as with all the other classrooms) and the computer turns on automatically along with the screen is lowered. Now this may sound like quite an advanced system but once the cabinet is opened, dust is everywhere. We are so particular about keeping our computer areas dust free in the States that this was quite a shocker. I blow dust off the USB port before using. Once class is over, I shut the door and the system is locked until the next class.
All the students have English names and on the first day of class I had them introduce themselves and provide some personal comments. One student had the name Clark, as he likes Superman. Another's name was Usher, as he likes his music. Barbara had just changed her name before class so the others laughed as calling her by that name was new to them (sometimes they change their English names often as it is only personal preference, nothing legal about it). I also have Summer, Joyce, Cloudy, Ford, RTV, Dirk, Rex, Champion, Mayer, Stich, Scobing, Bobby, David, Mars, Jeron, Jimmy, Aida, Freeda...
Students do not work while they are going to school. To them, school is their full-time job. They spend many hours at studying for all their classes. I gave them an assignment one day and the next day they all had PowerPoint presentations for the class. All were very high caliber. They were amazed that students in the U.S. either have full-time or part-time jobs. All live on campus and I was told this university has about 20,000 students. The freshmen, though, go to school at a different campus a few blocks away. That is where Mel and Elmeda will be teaching English.
It is commom practice to talk to one another during the class but the students have been very courteous in keeping this to a minimum. But when their peers get up to make a presentation, they do not show the same courtesy and the 'buzz' can get quite loud. The word "quiet" gets it down to a hush.
The photo that I posted tells a story in itself. Packages must come on certain days and apparently it was Tuesday around noon. As we were walking to the faculty eatery, we passed this sight. Students were rummaging through packages that were strewn on the ground in an attempt to find one that was theirs. Evidently, that is how packages are delivered on campus. Note the FedEx packages amongst the pile. Ken told me that in previous teaching visits he has had a delivery person come right into the classroom to deliver to a student because that would be the only time to get their package.
Many students will come up to me while walking on campus and begin a conversation, wanting to practice their English skills. The other evening, a young man approached me on his bicycle (there are many, many of these on campus; one is dodging them constantly) and asked if I was from North Dakota. David was in the engineering program but had apparently had several conversations with Steve Carlson (a UND accounting professor who has taught at USST several times) when he was here last summer. David gets practice with his English by watching the past seasons of Desperate Housewives. I told him that the storyline had jumped ahead five years so as we began to dialogue about the show, he decided he didn't want to hear anymore so it wouldn't spoil his viewing. He said my accent was "like the waves of the ocean," whatever that means. He gave hand motions of flowing water so I think he was referring to smoothness and being easy to listen to. I told David to stop by my office whenever he wanted to carry on more conversation. He already knew where my office was as apparently he must check from time-to-time to see when any new faculty members arrive with whom he can practice his speaking skills. David hopes to get a PhD in the United States one day.
Another student stopped in my office as she found out that I graduated from Purdue University. Joyce wants to get her masters at Purdue in marketing. Her drawback is that, as with many master's programs, three to five years of work experience is required. She was wondering what to do and to find out more about the University. I could go on with stories about several other students, but they would be similar. They are very interested in the States and seek out opportunities in education and work in the corporate world.
One of the requirements that students have is taking a physical education course each term. They have their choice of the standards, but basketball is probably the most popular, along with soccer. There are basketball courts all over campus and one is located near where I stay. At night I go to sleep hearing them play; the bouncing ball is like counting sheep. Not that I have to count for too long.
Monday, October 13, 2008
A Saturday in Shanghai
What do you do on a Saturday in Shanghai? Food is always a good start. Mel, Elmeda, and I took a taxi to meet Ken Mellem at the Phoenix Hotel where he is staying. We had the address written down for us in Chinese as none of the taxi drivers can speak English. Ken was going to take us to Malone's, which is an American cafe in the heart of Shanghai.
We had a short walk to the underground Metro. We bought our Metro cards as this enabled us to travel around on the system with just scanning our cards when we enter and exit through the turnstyles. The appropriate amount is deducted from the card based on distance traveled; same as the system in Washington, DC. After about eight stops we changed trains at People's Square, known as the political, cultural, and arts center of the city, and then had two additional stops, getting off at Jing An Temple Station. A few blocks of walking finally got us to Malone's which has a pub atmosphere. The 'Big Daddy Breakfast' was the choice for all. That included eggs, bacon, ham, fried potatoes, french toast, pancakes, fruit, orange juice, and coffee. It was a breakfast you couldn't finish but it sure tasted good trying.
After our feed (it was in the early afternoon by now), we ventured out to walk the streets of Shanghai to see how we could part with some RMB. Some of the places looked familiar as I remembered they were included in my January trip. We walked through several shopping centers to view the assortment of retailers. Plaza 66 is the most upscale having all the top designers--Dior, Fendi, Armani... Passing one jewelry store I noticed a necklace on display that had a price of over 390,000 RMB. Most pay cash here still, with limited credit card usage. So the transfer of RMB notes (the largest denomination is 100) would take awhile and probably happen in a back room. Checking for counterfeit bills would also be done (every one of mine has been inspected when handed off) so the transaction may not be complete in one day.
Ken wanted to take us to a shopping mart where bargaining takes place so after our roundabout taxi ride to get there we were in the midst of bargaining mania. It was fun to see who would come out the victor. A silver and gold bracelet caught my eye and sales individual started the price at 960 RMB. I said too much and after going back and forth, left because the lowest price offered was 300; I indicated 200 RMB was my offer. She followed, which is often the case, and it is now in my possession. Most everything you could imagine was there to shop for. As we walked the aisles of the different floors, all were yelling to you or grabbing your arm to come see their goods. The environment was typical of bargaining places. Mel was looking for a set of Ping golf clubs, but didn't make the purchase. Of course they aren't real, but good counterfeits. We decided that this stop would be on the list for another Saturday as we knew we could spend hours taking it all in.
We walked back through People's Square and again, I noticed several buildings that had been my stops in January. I decided that some I wanted to go back to, such as the Shanghai Museum. There were people everywhere but it was late afternoon so I am assuming many were on their way home. At least the Metro was packed on our way back to the Phoenix House.
We had a short walk to the underground Metro. We bought our Metro cards as this enabled us to travel around on the system with just scanning our cards when we enter and exit through the turnstyles. The appropriate amount is deducted from the card based on distance traveled; same as the system in Washington, DC. After about eight stops we changed trains at People's Square, known as the political, cultural, and arts center of the city, and then had two additional stops, getting off at Jing An Temple Station. A few blocks of walking finally got us to Malone's which has a pub atmosphere. The 'Big Daddy Breakfast' was the choice for all. That included eggs, bacon, ham, fried potatoes, french toast, pancakes, fruit, orange juice, and coffee. It was a breakfast you couldn't finish but it sure tasted good trying.
After our feed (it was in the early afternoon by now), we ventured out to walk the streets of Shanghai to see how we could part with some RMB. Some of the places looked familiar as I remembered they were included in my January trip. We walked through several shopping centers to view the assortment of retailers. Plaza 66 is the most upscale having all the top designers--Dior, Fendi, Armani... Passing one jewelry store I noticed a necklace on display that had a price of over 390,000 RMB. Most pay cash here still, with limited credit card usage. So the transfer of RMB notes (the largest denomination is 100) would take awhile and probably happen in a back room. Checking for counterfeit bills would also be done (every one of mine has been inspected when handed off) so the transaction may not be complete in one day.
Ken wanted to take us to a shopping mart where bargaining takes place so after our roundabout taxi ride to get there we were in the midst of bargaining mania. It was fun to see who would come out the victor. A silver and gold bracelet caught my eye and sales individual started the price at 960 RMB. I said too much and after going back and forth, left because the lowest price offered was 300; I indicated 200 RMB was my offer. She followed, which is often the case, and it is now in my possession. Most everything you could imagine was there to shop for. As we walked the aisles of the different floors, all were yelling to you or grabbing your arm to come see their goods. The environment was typical of bargaining places. Mel was looking for a set of Ping golf clubs, but didn't make the purchase. Of course they aren't real, but good counterfeits. We decided that this stop would be on the list for another Saturday as we knew we could spend hours taking it all in.
We walked back through People's Square and again, I noticed several buildings that had been my stops in January. I decided that some I wanted to go back to, such as the Shanghai Museum. There were people everywhere but it was late afternoon so I am assuming many were on their way home. At least the Metro was packed on our way back to the Phoenix House.
Our food choice for the evening was to visit Pizza Hut just down the street from the Phoenix House. The group shared a pizza and I opted for a Kiwi Mango Rendevous while the others tried the beer. The pizza here has less sauce and it tastes like a lavosh but with a pizza crust. I have had a pizza on campus and it is the same. More on food in a later blog.
We strolled the streets back to the hotel to catch a taxi back to the University. Merchants were out on the streets peddling their wares and their food. Since it was dark by this time, only the store lights shed light onto the street for them to sell. One entrepreneur fixed that problem by rigging lights to his cycle. He used McDonald cups for the shades to his lamps, quite inventive. It was a good day.
We strolled the streets back to the hotel to catch a taxi back to the University. Merchants were out on the streets peddling their wares and their food. Since it was dark by this time, only the store lights shed light onto the street for them to sell. One entrepreneur fixed that problem by rigging lights to his cycle. He used McDonald cups for the shades to his lamps, quite inventive. It was a good day.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
The Lotus Center
I took another trip to the Lotus Center as Mel and Elmeda wanted to search out the local convenience shopping. It really is a WalMart wanna-be. I don't know if it is a chain or just the one store. It has everything, from electronics to food to clothing to liquor.
There is someone standing at the entrance, but he appears to be more security-related than a 'WalMart greeter.' When we were in the food area I wanted to take a photo of the chicken feet and other delectables to post, but when I took out the camera a gentleman came up and shook his head in the negative. Later, I approached a more friendly-looking female and took the camera out and tried to signal that I wanted to take some photos; she motioned to the front of the store so off I went to get approval. After again doing my pantomime to indicate my wish, The 'WalMart greeter' shook his head, but added a firm vocal "no." So unfortunately, I am not able to show some of the store's offerings.
If there would have been air conditioning in the store, we would have stayed longer; but the air was quite heavy. We spent most of the time in the food area. The fresh fish, beef, pork, chicken, and other 'birds' were displayed in a combination of open market style (with ice) and heated cases. The aromas mixed with the warm air filled the nostrils. Every body part to the animal/bird seemed to be available for purchase. In the heated case, many items looked very appealing but then there was this one container at the end--it had tiny, tiny, little birds in it and they were very dark with some sauce basted on them. Not many remained so this item must be on the shopping list for others. It wasn't on mine.
Going down the packaged goods aisles it was easy to find the Pringles, the Lays, the Oreos, and other assorted snack and cookie brands. There were also the Coke products and juice brands, such as Minute Maid. Trade dress was ever present so they were easy to spot, even though the American tradename was not on the package. In some instances, though, the tradename was used. In health and beauty aids I found such brands as Tide, Safeguard, and Kleenex. With these products, the name was the constant yet their trade dress was not always apparent as we know it. It was interesting to see the strategy that different companies use in packaging their products in the international market. There was no consistency.
I by-passed the dairy aisle as there was still news of arsenic being present in dairy products here. Even though the news programs indicate they have been taken off the market and are locking down on the production of these products, I decided to play it safe. Besides, I brought calcium tablets along.
Prices are very reasonable. I bought another liter bottle of Minute Maid orange juice and paid 5.50 RMB, which is roughly 80 cents converted. As I went through the checkout lane, I thought maybe I should have looked for a 'pillowtop' for my bed or an air mattress (that is what Mel and Elmeda brought along) to add some comfort to my sleep. Maybe on another visit.
There is someone standing at the entrance, but he appears to be more security-related than a 'WalMart greeter.' When we were in the food area I wanted to take a photo of the chicken feet and other delectables to post, but when I took out the camera a gentleman came up and shook his head in the negative. Later, I approached a more friendly-looking female and took the camera out and tried to signal that I wanted to take some photos; she motioned to the front of the store so off I went to get approval. After again doing my pantomime to indicate my wish, The 'WalMart greeter' shook his head, but added a firm vocal "no." So unfortunately, I am not able to show some of the store's offerings.
If there would have been air conditioning in the store, we would have stayed longer; but the air was quite heavy. We spent most of the time in the food area. The fresh fish, beef, pork, chicken, and other 'birds' were displayed in a combination of open market style (with ice) and heated cases. The aromas mixed with the warm air filled the nostrils. Every body part to the animal/bird seemed to be available for purchase. In the heated case, many items looked very appealing but then there was this one container at the end--it had tiny, tiny, little birds in it and they were very dark with some sauce basted on them. Not many remained so this item must be on the shopping list for others. It wasn't on mine.
Going down the packaged goods aisles it was easy to find the Pringles, the Lays, the Oreos, and other assorted snack and cookie brands. There were also the Coke products and juice brands, such as Minute Maid. Trade dress was ever present so they were easy to spot, even though the American tradename was not on the package. In some instances, though, the tradename was used. In health and beauty aids I found such brands as Tide, Safeguard, and Kleenex. With these products, the name was the constant yet their trade dress was not always apparent as we know it. It was interesting to see the strategy that different companies use in packaging their products in the international market. There was no consistency.
I by-passed the dairy aisle as there was still news of arsenic being present in dairy products here. Even though the news programs indicate they have been taken off the market and are locking down on the production of these products, I decided to play it safe. Besides, I brought calcium tablets along.
Prices are very reasonable. I bought another liter bottle of Minute Maid orange juice and paid 5.50 RMB, which is roughly 80 cents converted. As I went through the checkout lane, I thought maybe I should have looked for a 'pillowtop' for my bed or an air mattress (that is what Mel and Elmeda brought along) to add some comfort to my sleep. Maybe on another visit.
Monday, October 6, 2008
The Early Hours
Sleep, eat, movie, read, sleep, eat, sleep... There was nothing too exciting on the long flights to Shanghai, but I guess that is what is hoped for when traveling. I arrived after 9:00 p.m. on Sunday evening (that would be 9:00 a.m. Sunday home time) with Jessica Wu, the Dean's secretary, meeting me after getting through customs. It took about 45 minutes to get to the University and to my new 'home' for the next seven weeks. It is a humble abode on the third floor (no elevators). Two gentlemen carried up my bags and was I ever thankful for that as one of the bags weighed 68 pounds! That bag was a two-person job, each took an end. It should be lighter on the way home as most of the school materials will be left behind.
My home has a small living area which includes a small desk w/chair, a television (the only English speaking channel is CCTv), two straight chairs, a two-drawer chest, an end table, and a small refrigerator. I was hoping for an easy chair, but there will be no lounging in this room! The bedroom has two single beds with rock hard mattresses (no lounging here either). A bathroom is adjacent. Notably missing are any washcloths and there is a very limited supply of tissue (it is allocated in very small amounts by wrapping some up in a bundle). An asset to the living quarters is an air conditioner in each of the two main rooms. That is most appreciated as the weather is still muggy and warm.
I was up early on Monday morning to visit Ken Mellem's International Marketing class. It was a good introduction to the classroom culture. I have the same cohort of students as he so I will see them on Friday morning, my first teaching day. Classroom space is small and though they have Microsoft, it is the Chinese version so assistance is needed to get set up. Classes run for 45 minutes and then the bell rings for a 10 minute break. After that, another 45 minutes of class and the bell rings again.
We went to lunch on campus to a place frequented by faculty and staff. There was an English version to the menu but Jessica did the ordering. As I was scanning the menu, I knew right away that I would pass on the "boiled cow lung, fried bullfrog and stir-fried baby chicken." Maybe some other time.
After a 5-hour nap (jet lag), I visited the Internet cafe adjacent to the Expert House (where I stay). I think this is where I will be spending some time as they have easy chairs!
After a good night's sleep, I was in the office bright and early this morning. The computers are loaded with Microsoft, but they are copied versions. Security is not present either as it pops up that the connection is not secure. Connections are slow, as I tried to get online into my email but could not get Internet access. I tried later and then was able to access but after waiting about 15 minutes. I hope it gets better. One nice surprise when I booted up the computer was the screensaver of the 125th anniversary photo of students, faculty, and staff!
Jessica came into the office and introduced me to a couple from Arizona. They are UND graduates, Mel and Elmeda (sp?) Johnson. They are here for four months and will be teaching English. They are next door neighbors to me at the Expert House. Mel indicated that they had not been back to UND since the late '90s so that will enjoyable to converse with them over the next few weeks.
Ken took me to the 'Lotus' which is like a WalMart. It was about a quarter mile walk. I bought a few oranges (I go by my rule of not eating anything fresh unless I can peel it), Minute Maid orange juice (with a Chinese label, but the brand images were the same so it was easy to identify), washcloths, Kleenex tissues and TP--all of the necessities. It was interesting to go up and down the aisles and note when a company has used the same brand name or has changed the name but can still be identified by its visuals. More on this latter; hopefully, I get some photos to share.
I haven't taken any photos yet but will begin doing so now that I am settled. Hopefully, this non-techy person can get them loaded onto the blog.
My home has a small living area which includes a small desk w/chair, a television (the only English speaking channel is CCTv), two straight chairs, a two-drawer chest, an end table, and a small refrigerator. I was hoping for an easy chair, but there will be no lounging in this room! The bedroom has two single beds with rock hard mattresses (no lounging here either). A bathroom is adjacent. Notably missing are any washcloths and there is a very limited supply of tissue (it is allocated in very small amounts by wrapping some up in a bundle). An asset to the living quarters is an air conditioner in each of the two main rooms. That is most appreciated as the weather is still muggy and warm.
I was up early on Monday morning to visit Ken Mellem's International Marketing class. It was a good introduction to the classroom culture. I have the same cohort of students as he so I will see them on Friday morning, my first teaching day. Classroom space is small and though they have Microsoft, it is the Chinese version so assistance is needed to get set up. Classes run for 45 minutes and then the bell rings for a 10 minute break. After that, another 45 minutes of class and the bell rings again.
We went to lunch on campus to a place frequented by faculty and staff. There was an English version to the menu but Jessica did the ordering. As I was scanning the menu, I knew right away that I would pass on the "boiled cow lung, fried bullfrog and stir-fried baby chicken." Maybe some other time.
After a 5-hour nap (jet lag), I visited the Internet cafe adjacent to the Expert House (where I stay). I think this is where I will be spending some time as they have easy chairs!
After a good night's sleep, I was in the office bright and early this morning. The computers are loaded with Microsoft, but they are copied versions. Security is not present either as it pops up that the connection is not secure. Connections are slow, as I tried to get online into my email but could not get Internet access. I tried later and then was able to access but after waiting about 15 minutes. I hope it gets better. One nice surprise when I booted up the computer was the screensaver of the 125th anniversary photo of students, faculty, and staff!
Jessica came into the office and introduced me to a couple from Arizona. They are UND graduates, Mel and Elmeda (sp?) Johnson. They are here for four months and will be teaching English. They are next door neighbors to me at the Expert House. Mel indicated that they had not been back to UND since the late '90s so that will enjoyable to converse with them over the next few weeks.
Ken took me to the 'Lotus' which is like a WalMart. It was about a quarter mile walk. I bought a few oranges (I go by my rule of not eating anything fresh unless I can peel it), Minute Maid orange juice (with a Chinese label, but the brand images were the same so it was easy to identify), washcloths, Kleenex tissues and TP--all of the necessities. It was interesting to go up and down the aisles and note when a company has used the same brand name or has changed the name but can still be identified by its visuals. More on this latter; hopefully, I get some photos to share.
I haven't taken any photos yet but will begin doing so now that I am settled. Hopefully, this non-techy person can get them loaded onto the blog.
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