Instructor: Chenfeng Zhang
Travel Dates: April 27, 2008 - May 8, 2008

This summer travel seminar will introduce the history and culture of ancient China and how it leads to the modernization of new China. The seminar and visits to Shanghai and Beijing will enable students to understand the culture, tradition and daily lives of people in ancient and present China. Students will attend seminars studying the history, culture and traditions of China and the basic Chinese language for communications. Students will visit sites of ancient and modern civilization in Shanghai and Beijing.

Shanghai is the "Oriental Paris" and "Pearl of China." As the largest and most prosperous city in the nation, Shanghai is the economic, financial and cultural center. What make Shanghai particularly attractive are the many different styles of architecture and design throughout the city. Shanghai was once divided up into different "Concessions" or districts and the boundaries of these areas still remain today. Shanghai is a spectacularly modern city. The pace of development here is unbelievable. The newest area of the city is the Pudong new development zone. Two of the most impressive city structures can be found here, the Jinmao Tower and the Oriental TV Tower

As the capital city of the People's Republic of China, Beijing is the nation's political and cultural center and also a center for international contacts. The story of Beijing dates back long before the recorded history. The fragments of the bones of "Peking Man", dated to a period about 300,000 - 500,000 years ago, were discovered in a village to the southwest of the present-day city. In the same area, the fossils of the "Upper Cave Man" dating back 18,000 years were also found. In the last 1,000 years, it has been China's political and cultural center. Many of the ancient palace buildings, temple structures and gardens that are still visible today can be traced back 1,000 years.

Students will immerse themselves in the modern buildings of Shanghai, and historical buildings of Beijing, exploring ancient and new cultures of China. Students will also explore daily lives of the ordinary people and the Chinese education systems.

In order to participate in the program, students must obtain the appropriate travel documents, as well as be in good standing at Marygrove College. Permission of the instructor is required.

Courses and Credits:

Accommodations
Students will stay in hotels in Shanghai and Beijing, double-occupancy. Meals are included.

Contact Information:
Chenfeng Zhang
MC Bldg., Rm 213
Phone: (313) 927-1381
E-mail: czhang@marygrove.edu