Intern steps into the unknown in Ningbo
University of Auckland student Zoe Lit says her internship at United Media Solutions in Ningbo, China, opened her eyes to “the opportunities that come from stepping into the unknown.” Over three months at the marketing and communications firm, Zoe put her university studies into practice in a fast-paced, real-world environment—gaining not only a deeper understanding of China, but also newfound confidence in her own abilities.
Zoe: "This internship showed me the opportunities that come from stepping into the unknown."
Before this internship, China was another distant powerhouse in Asia, important on paper but completely unfamiliar to me personally. It wasn’t just the geographical distance; culturally and professionally, it felt like a whole different world.
Even though I majored in Chinese at university and knew China is New Zealand’s largest trading partner, I didn’t really understand what everyday life or working in modern China was like.
So, when I found the chance to intern in China with a digital marketing company, it felt like the perfect way to put my diverse studies in international relations, business, and Chinese into practice, all while diving into a new culture.
Zoe: "On weekends, I explored the neighbourhood, soaked up the city’s history, and even went on short trips with fellow interns."
Moving to a city I’d never even heard of was both nerve-wracking and exciting. But I quickly grew to appreciate Ningbo’s unique blend of modern life and traditional values.
From busy shopping malls to peaceful parks right in the city centre, Ningbo surprised me in the best way.
On weekends, I explored the neighbourhood, soaked up the city’s history, and even went on short trips with fellow interns.
Experiencing China firsthand completely changed my perspective. It became so much more than just something I’d studied in class.
United Media Solutions is a digital marketing agency that helps brands grow in China and global markets.
During my internship, my tasks were varied from researching China’s 2025 consumer market trends and writing blog articles and internal case studies, to supporting live client projects.
Getting to know the company and the wide scope of work it handles gave me a real sense of how fast-paced and constantly evolving the industry is.
Zoe: "Most of all, this experience reminded me that real growth happens when you’re willing to get a little uncomfortable."
This role gave me the chance to apply my business knowledge and Chinese skills in a practical, real-world setting.
One project I really enjoyed was researching and analysing consumer trends in China.
The market is massive and incredibly diverse, which was eye-opening compared to what I’d known about New Zealand.
I also found it fascinating to learn about the Kiwi brands UMS helps expand in China, and how they adapt their marketing to suit local preferences and platforms like WeChat, Douyin, and Red Note.
I even got to observe how some TikTok users were migrating to Red Note, often called “TikTok refugees,” which showed me just how fast digital trends can shift.
Zoe having a weekly catchup with her supervisor, Guy
UMS’s work environment was welcoming and supportive from day one.
I had a mentor with a similar background who helped me settle in fast.
Switching between English and Chinese depending on the situation boosted my confidence, and the team culture really encouraged collaboration and questions. It gave me a taste of what it’s like working in an international, bilingual office.
One of the most interesting parts of the internship was getting used to the digital tools common in China.
In New Zealand, I’m used to WhatsApp or email for work communication, but at UMS, WeChat is the go-to platform.
It’s so much more than a chat app. It combines messaging, payments, file sharing, and mini-programmes all in one, making daily communication super-efficient.
Microsoft Teams was still used for formal meetings, similar to back home, but learning to navigate WeChat helped me understand how business flows in China’s fast-paced environment.
This wasn’t just about language. It gave me insight into the different digital work styles between countries.
Zoe meeting with deputy consuls and fellow New Zealand interns in Shanghai
This internship showed me the opportunities that come from stepping into the unknown.
I’ve gained confidence working across cultures and am more curious than ever about a future career involving Asia.
I want to keep building on both my business and language skills, especially in roles that connect China and New Zealand.
Most of all, this experience reminded me that real growth happens when you’re willing to get a little uncomfortable.
The Foundation's Business Programme supports New Zealand companies to better understand Asia so they can make the most of opportunities in the region. It also supports to grow the next generation of Asia-savvy business leaders.
Our internship programme helps interns build a better understanding of the people, place and culture of their Asian host country, while developing industry-specific skills that will benefit them as they progress in their careers.
