Interesting Newsweek Article

Newsweek article

Doesn't require much explaining.
JBiber

Science & Engineering Education

I was reading Gizmodo, as usual.  They have written an article on this video.  I can't say I agree with everything the government does, in any country -- but I declare that should the talking points in this speech become true, it would be a move in the right direction undoubtedly.

China: It's coming...

An article at gizmodo.com (link) shows an example of how different Shanghai is from Indiana.  Recently, I watched a Discovery video on Shanghai.  It was an interesting 45 minutes that highlight some of the things that don't match US culture.  The video was the last part of a four part series "Paul Merton In China."  It starts by highlighting the how Shanghai is really the leading capitalistic city.  It isn't that the socialism doesn't exist there, just that the culture is part of the fast paced world.  He likened it to the way New York City is always moving, vibrant city.  Continuing - A vibrant city famed for it's progressive thinking, independent women, and hedonistic lifestyle.

The video covers many experiences, night life, going out to eat, having a suit tailored, and visits many of the places china wants you to see.  There was also an example in the video of Paul traveling down the river to a trash dump.  There were citizens that (illegally) setup a small community.  They rummage through the garbage and find things that can be sold for money.  Eventually his camera man was spotted and was told to stop filming or face consequences.  These rummagers can make up to three times a taxi cab driver's daily pay, but the lifestyle is quite limiting.  There is no doubt that China has many different faces, it will be interesting to experience first hand.  It is very encouraging that Shanghai is leading the way on the emerging capitalistic way of life.  While there is some movement towards capitalism, there is still a very strong cultural standard that is encouraged by the Chinese government, such as the regulation of video games.

I need to watch the video again to complete my summary and will continue this at a later date.

Another video that I saw recently on the PBS website showcased the world's largest mall, recently built in China.  It's an interesting watch, part 3 of the Utopia series.  The mall was built.  It is larger than the Mall of America.  It is also nearly completely empty.  Only a few shops and very few people.  Definitely worth watching.

It will be an interesting place to visit.
JBiber

China: Go There

Just finished up with my two exams today. I am happy to be done with exams until after thanksgiving. It will be a sorely welcomed 1.5 weeks of no evening exams. Today, I was told the flight number I'll be riding over to China on. The route is by Asiana Airlines. It appears to be operated by US Airways. Today, it was flown in a 777. If I get to go one a 777, that'd be cool. I haven't ever gotten to ride on one that I can think of.

http://www.flightstats.com/go/FlightStatus/flightStatusByFlight.do?id=176175134&utm_source=airlineInformationAndStatus&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=co-op

Jbiber

Preparing for China

Things are about to kick into high gear around here. I'm getting ready to go to China. I've paid my deposits and all systems are a go.

I am having plenty of trouble studying because of my growing interest for going overseas. I will soon start sharing my ideas here on the blog hopefully readers will be able to contribute good ideas for things to take and some problems I think I'll be facing.

All input is welcomed!

JBiber