Catalai is preparing for another successful year of delivering the most comprehensive work and study programme in China. This year top international students that are serious about gaining business experience and language skills in China, are now applying to be considered for the Catalai China Programme in Beijing and Shanghai. Catalai attracts applications from students and recent graduates all year round, with many students preferring to take part on the Catalai progrmme during the summer months.

Catalai’s selective approach is designed to benefit particpants and also Catalai’s partner employers. Having a consistently strong pool of students interning in China through the programme, means that many employers recognize the Catalai China Programme as the China internship programme of choice. Year after year both foreign and Chinese companies have been extremely impressed by the high-calibre students and recent graduates interning in their organisations. In addition, many of Catalai’s partner employers have been able to offer jobs to interns after their programme finishes.

The Catalai China Programme is increasingly competitive. In 2011 only one-third of applicants were successful. Having a strong academic background from a leading university is a common theme amongst nearly all applications that Catalai receives. When it comes to screening application forms, Catalai looks for candidates that are able to demonstrate the following:

• A strong academic background
• Some knowledge of Chinese culture
• Some knowledge of China’s economic and political issues
• Chinese language ability/genuine desire to learn
• Relevant work experience and skills
• A mature and professional outlook

When it comes to the interview stage, Catalai looks for candidates that are able to talk about the following points with a clear sense of professionalism and maturity:

• Career direction and aspirations
• Previous work experience and skills acquisition
• Perspective on how to contribute to a company/organisation in China
• Chinese language learning
• Chinese culture and an appreciation of cultural differences
• Extra-curricular achievements and accolades at university
• Previous leadership and management experiences