Session A of the 2019 Cross Cultural Internship Program (CCIP, www.fusia.net) began on May 18. It included a total of 40 students, with 15 from Singapore, three from Macau, and the remainder from Hong Kong. Over a period of 6-8 weeks, the students experienced memorable internships while living in one of the world’s great cosmopolitan cities.

What makes CCIP stand out from other internship programs is its tremendous variety of activities. The program is sustained by active group leaders and participants who, through cooperation and positivity, preserve CCIP’s close-knit group culture. Just over a month ago, Session A's interns left NYC to return home, but the group remains in close contact. Their shared experience continues to unite them even across great distances.

Even though the program was less than two months for most participants, life-long friendships were made, personal growth was attained, and global mindsets were developed. Not only does CCIP provide a platform for learning about an entirely different culture, it brings about experiences that will have far-reaching impacts for the participants’ futures.

The interns are best equipped to explain the impact CCIP had on them.

Minton, a student leader from Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University, said, "The internship experience taught me how to manage a diverse group of people during the program activities, making compromises based on the different attitudes and expectations of individuals in an entirely different country. Even the simple act of commuting to work highlighted the daily challenges that New Yorkers face. It offered me a fresh perspective for evaluating Singapore's transport infrastructure. Being part of an American company has been an enriching experience as well, as I learned to form professional relationships in a welcoming environment. Though I had to complete substantial administrative work to be part of the program, my experiences were well worth the effort. The organizers offered comprehensive guidance from the very beginning to ensure that the whole program was a success for me."

“It was a wise choice to join CCIP this summer,” echoed Gary, another student leader. He is studying civil engineering at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. “The program provided me a unique internship opportunity in New York that allowed me to grow both professionally and personally. Beyond the internship, I met so many interesting people in New York and made some new friends. I’m very happy I joined CCIP."

Another student from Nanyang Technological University, Sherry Ang said, "The Cross Cultural Internship Program was a wonderful way to spend my first summer in NTU! My time here combined an enriching internship and a two-month holiday in New York City. I interned with the Society of Voice Arts and Sciences (SOVAS), a non-profit organization dedicated to serving aspiring and working voice actors. My supervisor, Rudy Gaskins, and his wife, Joan Baker, are two amazing and passionate people who made me feel really welcomed. They entrusted me with meaningful tasks such as improving the website's exposure through Google Analytics and drafting proposals to grantors. Whenever I gave suggestions, Rudy listened sincerely and even incorporated some of my ideas into the organization's current activities." Sherry, who is studying business, added, "In addition to my internship, CCIP has given me an opportunity to make new friends and explore NYC. Whether it was going to a laundromat or visiting Harvard University in Boston with my friends, these two months have been full of laughter and life-changing experiences. It was rewarding to be immersed in the culture here. Even though I came for the internship, it really felt like a holiday for me!”

"I can’t say how grateful and thankful I am to have joined CCIP!” exclaimed Joyce, who is a student at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. “Interning in NYC has been such a fruitful and memorable experience. Not only did I gain insights into the operation of a non-profit organization, I also gained practical experience for adapting in a workplace in a different culture. More than that, I really enjoyed building friendships with my fellow program attendees while being immersed in the sights and sounds of New York City. If you want to make the most of your summer break, join CCIP!"

Charmaine, another Nanyang Technological University student, added, "CCIP gave me my first overseas professional workplace experience. I enjoyed first-hand contact with a culture very different from my own. I not only gained a greater understanding of New York culture, but I also learned so much about what it takes to be a working adult. I’m so glad I was able to be a participant in this unique program. Seeing myself change as an individual has made me realize just how important it is to take chances and try things far from home. I think everyone should try it, at least for one summer."