The ninth year of the Cross Cultural Internship Program (CCIP) officially launched on May 20 with the arrival of the first group of student interns. This year, the program includes 74 interns split almost evenly across two sessions. The new arrivals were excited to begin what will surely be a fun and educational summer experience.

On their first weekend in New York City, the interns had the opportunity to explore their new surroundings, in particular Flushing, Queens, where they are staying at the adjacent Asiatic and Super Lake hotels. The neighborhood is one of the most culturally diverse in the entire city and offers the interns an opportunity to interact with business leaders and citizens from all over the world.

The general manager of the Super Lake Hotel, Lily Yuan, stopped by to welcome the group, while Fred Fu, president of the Flushing Development Center, helped highlight the sites on a tour. The interns also had the opportunity to set up bank accounts at the local TD Bank branch.

On Sunday afternoon, May 21, the interns gathered for an orientation led by Elizabeth Kay, the Responsible Officer and founder of CCIP. At the orientation, the group discussed important topics and reviewed information previously provided at their on-campus pre-departure orientations. They also received matching program t-shirts.

"I'm so excited to be here," said Zhao Yi Ye (Grace), one of the group leaders for CCIP. "Having the chance to intern in New York City is so great, and I'm looking forward to getting to know the other interns better."

Following the orientation, Elizabeth took the group leaders to dinner. There she praised their hard work and efforts and discussed what types of enriching opportunities and challenges the group could expect throughout the summer. CCIP is set to reach its first decade with a talented and enthusiastic group of interns.