Day 15

We visited the Xi’an Chamber of Commerce.  Our arrival was greatly anticipated; as we departed our bus, there were photographers all around us.  The Dean met with the Vice Governor of the Shaanxi Province and exchanged gifts.  The Dean received a large vase. He, in turn, gave the governor a Jon M. Huntsman School of Business Padfolio, a Utah tour book, and a Utah State University pen.  The Dean gave a speech on strategy to us and around 200 members of the Xi’an Chamber of Commerce.  After his speech, the Dean answered questions about the United States and the financial crisis.

We also visited an agricultural base.  Our visit was also greatly anticipated, as we were greeted by a large poster and numerous employees.  Our tour guide, Helen, showed us some of the base’s highlights.  We saw a stone that brings good luck to those who touch it.  We toured the largest stone museum in the province.  We saw a tea ceremony, and some of us were able to try dragon tea.  We played badminton and ping pong (two of China’s most popular sports) at a recreational facility built for students studying at the base.  We tried peaches, apricots, cherries, bananas, and a variety of nuts all grown at the facility.  We walked by pig and fish farms.  Our visit was very interesting and fun.

-Jill