When John Greenway packed his bags for Beijing, he wasn’t just preparing for an academic venture; he was stepping into a life-altering journey that would challenge his adaptability and profoundly reshape his understanding of international relations. His time in Beijing transcended the typical study abroad experience. It was a deep dive into a vibrant culture, an ongoing battle against harsh environmental elements, and a master class in resilience and relationship-building. These experiences, set against the backdrop of China’s sprawling capital, would leave lasting imprints on his life. We had the opportunity to ask John some questions about his time in Beijing.
What can you tell me about your first week in China? What were you feeling? What did you do?
“My first week in Beijing was a whirlwind of adjusting to the culture, weather, and especially the air quality. We arrived in January, and the weather was frigid, with temperatures averaging around 28°F (-2°C) during the day and often dropping below freezing at night. The cold, combined with the pollution levels, was a real challenge. I remember being very cautious about the air quality index each day, especially since the smog could be thick. The harsh winter conditions made it difficult to get around, but I spent time getting familiar with the local customs, observing how people interacted, and trying to find my rhythm in the city. Fortunately, I had some prior experience with the Chinese language, so I wasn’t starting from scratch in that regard, but the environment took some getting used to”.
Can you recall a significant language mishap?
“One of my worst language mess-ups happened when I tried to order food at a local restaurant. I thought I was asking for chicken, but I must have mispronounced something because what I ended up with definitely was NOT chicken. I did my best to eat enough of it to not offend anyone. I am still not sure exactly what I ate”.
Was there a person or place that particularly impacted you during your stay?
“My time in Beijing wouldn’t have been nearly as meaningful without the presence of my “Chinese Mama,” a judge who had a close relationship with my aunt. From the moment I arrived, she took me and my friends under her wing, offering us experiences that few others would have had access to. She had an incredible network of connections, which meant that almost every week we were embarking on a new adventure—whether it was horseback riding in the mountains, touring a Baijiu distillery, exploring remote sections of the Great Wall, or even singing Karaoke with Communist Party leaders. Her generosity and guidance transformed what could have been a routine study abroad trip into an unforgettable journey, filled with moments that shaped my understanding of China”.
What was a challenge you faced while living in China?
“Initially, one of the toughest challenges was dealing with the isolation that came from not being able to fully immerse myself in conversations or interactions. Despite having some language skills, there were moments when I felt like an outsider, struggling to engage with the people around me. However, I pushed through, gradually becoming more confident in both the language and my ability to navigate everyday life in Beijing. By the time I left, I was able to communicate much more fluently and had a strong grasp of the language, which gave me a real sense of accomplishment”..
Did any aspect of the culture particularly stand out to you?
“One cultural aspect that left a lasting impression on me was the concept of guanxi, or the art of building and nurturing relationships. In China, I saw firsthand how deeply valued these connections are, especially through my Chinese Mama and the many relationships she maintained. Whether personal or professional, these bonds required ongoing attention and respect, and it was clear how much effort people put into maintaining them. This also included understanding the unspoken rules of hierarchy and respect, which are woven into daily interactions”.
What business customs or practices from Beijing have you adopted in your professional life?
“I’ve integrated the principles of guanxi into my business approach. Focusing on building and nurturing long-term relationships has become central to how I operate. I’ve learned that trust and loyalty form the backbone of successful partnerships, and I now put a significant amount of time into maintaining these connections. This relationship-based mindset, which I saw so clearly in Beijing, has helped me create stronger networks and has been key to my professional success“.
John’s time in Beijing was about more than just studying—it transformed him. His story shows how stepping out of our comfort zones and diving into new cultures can lead to personal growth and lasting insights. John’s journey encourages us all to embrace new experiences, knowing they can change us in incredible ways.
