Go Abroad China Ltd.

After graduating in business from Madrid, I wanted international experience before settling into a career. GAC placed me with a logistics company in Shanghai's Pudong district. From week one, I was working on real projects – analyzing supply chains, negotiating with suppliers, and presenting to clients. My mentor taught me how Chinese business culture works – fast, direct, and relationship-driven. The team handled my visa, found me a great apartment, and checked in regularly. Three months later, I returned to Spain with a job offer and a whole new perspective. Best decision I ever made.

After finishing school in Ireland, I didn't want to just travel – I wanted to do something meaningful. GAC's gap year program in Shanghai was perfect. I interned at a marketing agency in the mornings and studied Mandarin at Fudan University in the afternoons. The team arranged everything – my internship, classes, shared apartment, and even weekend trips to Hangzhou and Suzhou. I came back with real work experience, improved Chinese, and job offers. If you're thinking about a gap year, skip the backpacking and do something that builds your future.

I spent 4 weeks in Beijing with GAC's high school summer camp and it was the best experience of my life. My homestay family was so kind – they taught me how to make dumplings and took me to local markets. My Mandarin improved so much, and I made friends from France, Germany, and Brazil. The weekend trips to the Great Wall and Summer Palace were unforgettable. I came home more confident and independent. If you're a teen thinking about going to China – just do it!