BA
Brendan Adkinson
  • Spanish, Biochemsitry and Neuroscience
  • Class of 2016
  • Bellevue, OH

Brendan Adkinson represents Marietta College during 12-day tour of China

2014 Jul 7

Brendan Adkinson of Bellevue, OH, was one of six Marietta College students who participated in a 12-day study tour in China from May 22 to June 2.

Adkinson is majoring in Spanish and Biochemistry and will graduate from Marietta in May of 2016.

The group spent time in Shanghai and Beijing touring businesses and schools, and sites of cultural and historic significance. The study tour culminated in a two-day summit of American and Chinese university students at Beijing University.

Once in China, the Marietta team was combined with several other college delegations to form a larger group for travel. While in Shanghai, the Marietta delegation visited the Yu Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, old and new Shanghai commercial districts, and spent time at consulting firm Dezan Shira & Associates and American cosmetic company Mary Kay's China headquarters.

After its time in Shanghai, the group traveled to Beijing via China's high-speed rail, reaching about 180 mph on many stretches of the trip. The line, opened in 2011, was developed with technology based on French, German, and Japanese high-speed rail manufacturers.

On arrival in Beijing, the team spent time with students from the Beijing National Day School, and experienced cultural and historical travel to the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and traditional hutong (alleyway homes situated northwest of the Forbidden City).

On the final two days of the study tour, the Marietta delegation rejoined all 160 American university students for a summit with Chinese university students hosted by Beijing University. Students had the opportunity to get to know each other and converse about various topics. Plenary speakers included the new United States ambassador to China, Max Baucus, former Montana state senator.

To download a photo of Brendan Adkinson, please go to https://www.flickr.com/photos/mariettacollege/sets/72157645508488696/.