The 2016 Cross Cultural Internship Program had its soft launch on May 8th with the arrival of the first six students. Starting their programs in the second week of May, they gathered at the Flushing YMCA.

"I have high expectations for this program," said Dongqing Liu (Cathy) from Nanyang Technological University. "I am excited about all the challenges and look forward to exploring New York." She is interning at GC Eng & Associates, an engineering consulting firm based in Chelsea that has operated in New York City since 1993.

"I'm looking forward to meeting new people," said Yang Le Lim, another student who came from Nanyang Technological University. He is interning at the Office of Assembly Member Ronald Kim, where he is gaining insight into the politics and cultural diversity of the United States. "I think it will be interesting to work in a political office, especially with the elections so close. I will be able to have firsthand experience of the elections from the point of view of a politician."

Following the arrival briefing, students settled in and explored the local area. First they set off to grab a bite to eat among the area's many eateries. Afterward, they took care of errands that included opening accounts with TD Bank and purchasing MetroCards to prepare for the start of their internships the next day.

"Flushing is very accessible, and the food in the area is so good," commented Xiongyi Tang (Bale) from Nanyang Technological University. "Not only is it tasty, but the price and variety are great."

This first group is also anticipating their post-arrival orientation on May 22nd after the students for the second session arrive.