Photos taken by Juliano Dantas Portela (Yale University), Student Correspondent for CET Beijing, Summer 2024
International Monetary Forum
![A desk with a water bottle and name tag in front of a large banner that has Chinese characters and International Monetary Forum on it](https://cetacademicprograms.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Blog_Beijing_Summer-2024_Juliano-Portela_International-Monetary-Forum_800x600.jpg)
Participating in the 国际货币论坛 (Guójì Huòbì Lùntán – International Monetary Forum) with the students of 人民大学 (Rénmín Dàxué – Renmin University) in Beijing. We engaged in deep discussions about the stability of global supply chains and various aspects of 中美关系 (Zhōng-Měi Guānxì – China-US relations). The forum provided an invaluable opportunity to exchange perspectives and insights on critical economic issues affecting both nations.
![Nine students and locals standing in a line by a large screen while holding up microphones at the International Monetary Forum](https://cetacademicprograms.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Blog_Beijing_Summer-2024_Juliano-Portela_Second-part-International-Monetary-Forum_800x600.jpg)
The second part of the 国际货币论坛 (Guójì Huòbì Lùntán – International Monetary Forum) at 人民大学 (Rénmín Dàxué – Renmin University) in Beijing featured a variety of cultural activities. We enjoyed performances by the university students and our fellow CET 同学们 (tóngxuémen – classmates), which showcased the rich cultural heritage and talents of both Chinese and international students.
Giant Network Company Visit
![The outside of the Giant Network company in Shanghai on a cloudy day](https://cetacademicprograms.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Blog_Beijing_Summer-2024_Juliano-Portela_Shanghai-trip-company-visit_800x600.jpg)
After the forum, as part of our first activity in the CET-sponsored Shanghai trip, we visited the 巨人网络 (Jùrén Wǎngluò – Giant Network) company. Known for its innovative online gaming and digital entertainment solutions, Giant Network is a leader in the tech industry. The offices are very modern and technological, resembling the workspaces found in Silicon Valley.
Oriental Pearl TV Tower
![A view of the city buildings from the top of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower in Shanghai during the night](https://cetacademicprograms.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Blog_Beijing_Summer-2024_Juliano-Portela_Oriental-Pearl-TV-Tower-Shanghai_700x933.jpg)
A breathtaking view from the top of the 东方明珠电视塔 (Dōngfāng Míngzhū Diànshì Tǎ – Oriental Pearl TV Tower) in Shanghai. From here, we could see the stunning skyline, including the 上海中心大厦 (Shànghǎi Zhōngxīn Dàshà – Shanghai Tower), which is one of the tallest buildings in Asia. The panoramic view highlighted the impressive architecture and rapid development of this vibrant city.
Community in Shanghai
![Somebody standing in front of a community room in Shanghai while giving a presentation on a little screen](https://cetacademicprograms.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Blog_Beijing_Summer-2024_Juliano-Portela_Shanghai-community_800x600.jpg)
![CET Beijing students petting a cat with disabilities](https://cetacademicprograms.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Blog_Beijing_Summer-2024_Juliano-Portela_Disabled-cats_700x933.jpg)
Visiting the 三林苑 (Sānlínyuàn) community in Shanghai. We learned about community living in these communes and how they are organized to be more accessible and provide better living conditions for everyone. The efforts to improve communal facilities and foster a supportive environment were truly inspiring.
After learning more about the 三林苑 (Sānlínyuàn) community, we visited their initiative that helps stray cats, including those with disabilities, by giving them a home. We got to play with the cats, and it was really cute. This is a very good initiative that highlights the community’s commitment to animal welfare and creating a compassionate environment.
Exploring the Shopping Mall
![Many people walking around the Shopping Mall in Shanghai](https://cetacademicprograms.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Blog_Beijing_Summer-2024_Juliano-Portela_Shopping-mall_700x933.jpg)
After visiting the 三林苑 (Sānlínyuàn) community, we explored the 豫园 (Yùyuán) Shopping Mall. It is one of the nicest areas to get to know Shanghai and its traditional part of the city. The blend of historic architecture and modern shops offered a unique glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Boat Tour on Huangpu River
![People taking photos on their phone while on a boat tour on Huangpu River in Shanghai at night](https://cetacademicprograms.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Blog_Beijing_Summer-2024_Juliano-Portela_Featured-photo_1600x1200-1.jpg)
On our boat tour along the 浦江 (Pǔjiāng – Huangpu River), we admired the European side of Shanghai’s skyline. This area, known as the 外滩 (Wàitān – The Bund), is famous for its historic buildings that showcase various architectural styles from the colonial era. The Bund has been a symbol of Shanghai’s international openness since the 19th century, reflecting its history as a major trading port.
Continuing our boat tour on the 浦江 (Pǔjiāng – Huangpu River), we viewed the modern side of Shanghai’s skyline. This area, known as 陆家嘴 (Lùjiāzuǐ), is home to some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers, including the 上海中心大厦 (Shànghǎi Zhōngxīn Dàshà – Shanghai Tower). Lujiazui represents Shanghai’s rapid modernization and economic growth, transforming from farmland into a global financial hub in just a few decades.
GM Factory
![Jing Wang, the Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Policy at GM China, giving a presentation](https://cetacademicprograms.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Blog_Beijing_Summer-2024_Juliano-Portela_GM-factory_800x600.jpg)
To finish off our Shanghai trip, we visited the GM factory and learned from their executives. In this picture, we are with Jing Wang, the Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Policy at GM China. The visit provided valuable insights into the automotive industry and GM’s operations in China.