On June 3rd, The Cross Cultural Internship Program (CCIP) exchange visitors went to the office of Councilman Peter Koo to gain valuable insight into the local and international political culture of the United States.

Councilman Koo was elected to the New York City Council in November 2009. As a local businessman and community activist, Councilman Koo has been affectionately called the "Mayor" of Flushing because of his involvement in civics, his accessibility to the public, and for his philanthropic endeavors. He immigrated to America from Hong Kong in 1971. Among the most interesting topics for the students was how the councilman succeeded in America.

"New York, as a port city of immigrants, has many minority communities with very different needs," said Chun Yip Chan (Anson), a student at the University of Hong Kong. "So the councilman is very important for them. I felt this activity was more meaningful because of that."

Even though participation for this activity was optional, there were still many participants. "Thanks to this opportunity provided by CCIP, I was able to have a face-to-face discussion about the Hong Kong community in America with the councilman," said Sai Hong NG, (John), one of the activity leaders for the event along with Anson.

Everyone was happy to talk with Councilman Koo. The CCIP exchange visitors gained a greater understanding of the role of a United States' council member, and what role they play in community affairs. It was also a chance to see the differences between Hong Kong and the United States.