CCIP Session B Students joined local volunteers and the NYC Parks & Recreation department to participate in "It's My Park Day!" as part of the requirements of the visa sponsor: CCI Greenheart. The event celebrates New York's public parks and involves thousands of New Yorkers annually, who volunteer their time to clean up these spaces.

Following the briefing, the students in their full gear of gloves and sunscreen lotion got down to gardening with much gusto. They were accompanied by CCI Greenheart's staff members who themselves were active volunteers to numerous causes.

Despite the relentless heat though the whole morning, the student found themselves enjoying the time outdoors, especially in a location as scenic as the Flushing Meadows-Corona Park which happened to be the site of two twentieth century World's Fairs.

For Miley, a student from Macau University of Science and Technology, the whole experience turned out to be the exact opposite of her initial expectation. "I was dreading it at first, having to spend the whole morning sweating in the hot sun and knee deep in mud. But knowing that I played a part in maintaining the wonderful environment of this park, not to mention how much fun I had while doing it, I actually had an amazing time!"

Other than getting the chance to learn the value of volunteering and appreciating how much effort goes into maintaining public spaces, the students also got to interact with the NYC Parks Stuff. A lively conversation soon ensued as the conversation shifted from environmentalism to American culture, from the rich history of the park to general must sees in New York.

Students were delightfully surprised when they were treated to a sumptuous lunch sponsored by CCI in appreciation of them taking time off to contribute to caring for the environment.

It was unanimous amongst all participating students that the sunny Saturday morning was definitely well spent.