In the summer of 2024, Riko from Singapore's Nanyang Technological University and Neka, a dual degree student from Cambodia's American University of Phnom Penh and University of Arizona, embarked on an unforgettable journey as J-1 interns at Admerasia through FUSIA's CCIP J-1 Internship program.

At Admerasia, they immersed themselves in the fast-paced world of New York City's advertising scene, where they honed their skills in market research, digital marketing, and creative campaign development. Neka thrived in the dynamic environment, mastering cross-cultural communication and global marketing strategies, while Riko embraced new challenges and expanded upon her professional horizons by pushing past vast cultural differences. Their internship not only provided invaluable industry insights but also fostered lasting friendships and a deep appreciation for international collaboration.

Stepping out of his comfort zone and gaining confidence in new skills was completely unexpected for Fucia’s CCIP J-1 intern, Bruce Lin, during his internship at the Tech Incubator at Queens College/CUNY Research Foundation this summer. Bruce found himself fully adapting to the American lifestyle, relishing the opportunity to gain new perspectives through cultural immersion. His discussions comparing the flexibilities in American and Singaporean working cultures and opportunities further enriched his experience, prompting him to highly recommend the program to future participants seeking similar personal growth.

Bruce speaks fondly of his host, who not only guided him patiently through unfamiliar tasks but also fostered a familial atmosphere within the team. This supportive environment enabled Bruce to develop skills in communication, website design, app development, and social media platform management. Particularly impactful was his hands-on experience crafting social media posts, which significantly bolstered his confidence in digital marketing—an opportunity not typically afforded in Singaporean companies.

Reflecting on his time at the Tech Incubator, Bruce values the practical skills gained and the lasting connections forged with his host and colleagues. His internship not only broadened his professional horizons but also solidified his passion for exploring cultural nuances and applying them creatively in his work. Bruce’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of international internships in cultivating both technical expertise and cross-cultural understanding, experiences he would not have encountered without this opportunity.

Audrey Loo’s internship at the Office of NYS Assemblyman David I. Weprin has been a transformative experience, providing her with a firsthand insight into the nuances of American workplace culture and civic engagement. Immersed in a dynamic environment, Audrey has thrived under the guidance and mentorship of seasoned professionals, gaining invaluable perspectives on potential career paths in her future. This exposure has not only deepened her understanding of American workplace dynamics but also fortified her ability to manage constituent expectations with empathy and professionalism, showcasing her adeptness in balancing technical and soft skills

Throughout her internship, Audrey has applied her cultural acumen to navigate complex interactions effectively. Her development in managing constituent relations has been marked by a keen understanding of diverse perspectives and thoughtful communication. Audrey’s journey at the Assemblyman's office has been a profound period of personal and professional growth, characterized by practical experience, enduring connections, and a heightened commitment to civic duty. Her internship exemplifies the transformative power of cultural exchange and experiential learning, shaping her into a future leader with a global perspective on public service.

During Jenny’s CCIP J-1 internship at Grace Lee's office, she experienced significant professional and personal growth. The program adeptly combined professional development with cultural immersion, seamlessly integrating her into American life. Jenny’s involvement in community service projects deepened her understanding of local cultures, while exploring the city allowed her to connect with new people and discover various attractions. This blend of experiences significantly broadened her skills and cultural awareness.

Jenny found the working environment to be exceptionally supportive, with kind and collaborative colleagues and a nurturing supervisor. The positive atmosphere greatly contributed to her personal and professional development. She appreciated the constructive guidance and teamwork, which facilitated her growth throughout the internship.

One standout experience was a meaningful conversation she had during tabling activities, which highlighted the challenges faced by small business owners in the community. This interaction not only broadened her perspective but also inspired her to consider a career in economic development or public policy. Jenny recommends future participants engage actively in front-line activities like tabling, as they offer invaluable opportunities to connect with diverse groups and gain firsthand insights into community concerns.

Two interns from Macau, Moyan and Yuke, are currently supporting membership and community outreach at the Jamaica YMCA. They’ve become a positive presence in daily operations and are gaining firsthand experience in relationship-building within a dynamic nonprofit environment.

Throughout their internship, Moyan and Yuke have had the opportunity to meet a wide range of people from different backgrounds, deepening their understanding of community service in the US. They would like to extend special thanks to Gloria and Cedric for their support and mentorship, and to the entire YMCA team for making them feel welcome.

They are especially grateful for the chance to participate in various activities and projects that helped them grow both personally and professionally. From assisting members to practicing English in real-world settings, the experience has been meaningful and memorable.

In the summer of 2024, Evelyn and Joseph embarked on an enriching internship at the office of NYS Assemblyman Ron Kim, fully immersing themselves in the world of American public service. Both interns adapted swiftly to the American lifestyle, embracing cultural and culinary experiences while gaining valuable insights into legislative processes. The dynamic work environment balanced professionalism with casual interactions, fostering a space where they could grow both personally and professionally.

Throughout their internship, Evelyn and Joseph were entrusted with significant responsibilities, enhancing their understanding of the office’s role within the community. They honed their communication skills by interacting with various institutions on constituent cases and engaging in meaningful dialogue with community members. Mentorship from experienced staff members helped deepen their knowledge of housing policies and improved their ability to assist constituents confidently and professionally.

Their involvement in initiatives like the free tax assistance program for low-income households and attending press conferences and community events further expanded their practical skills and interest areas. Evelyn and Joseph left the internship with a profound appreciation for public service, a clear vision for their future careers, and a strong network of professional relationships. They recommend future interns to be proactive, stay informed on current events, and continuously seek opportunities for learning and growth.

Sirui Ji’s internship experience has been a profoundly enriching learning curve. This summer, she interned at the Office of Congresswoman Grace Meng through Fusia’s CCIP J-1 internship program, where she discovered new dimensions of professional growth and personal development. Immersed in a vibrant working environment, Sirui was captivated by its dynamic and supportive atmosphere.

Throughout her internship, Sirui embraced a spectrum of new skills and knowledge that have reshaped her approach to work and life. From cultivating independence and refining time management skills to embracing diverse perspectives and cultivating a sense of responsibility and respect, Sirui thrived in this transformative environment. The experience challenged her to keep an open mind towards new people and experiences, broadening her professional horizons and fostering a deeper understanding of her career aspirations.

This internship marks a significant departure from Sirui’s previous experiences, providing a distinctive mix of cultural immersion, expansive job scope, and deep personal reflection. She wholeheartedly recommends the program to future participants, highlighting the supportive and approachable nature of her supervisor and colleagues, who fostered a welcoming and collaborative atmosphere. Her experience prompted Sirui to carefully assess her career preferences and future goals, revealing potential paths she had not previously explored. Sirui’s time at Congresswoman Meng's office illustrates the transformative influence of immersive learning and supportive mentorship in shaping a well-rounded and future-focused professional.

Discover Jireh Liu’s captivating journey interning at the Office of NYS Senator Toby Ann Stavisky—an insightful plunge into American politics. Embracing this international opportunity, Jireh reflects on his adaptation and enriched understanding of professional life in a multicultural setting, surpassing what he might have learned back home in Singapore. The warm reception and emphasis on diversity and teamwork have left a lasting impression, making this experience highly recommended for aspiring global professionals interested in the world of politics.

Under the mentorship of a supportive host, Jireh thrived in the close-knit office environment, where guidance was readily available. Throughout his internship, Jireh honed essential skills in patience, communication, and conflict resolution through direct interactions with constituents and handling various office tasks. This experience also sharpened his time management and language abilities, crucial for navigating complex political landscapes.

Delving into the intricate differences between US state and federal governance systems ignited Jireh's curiosity in comparative politics, sparking a deeper interest in understanding governance models beyond borders. His internship at Senator Stavisky's office has not only broadened his perspective but also fueled a passion for exploring political and governance systems worldwide, including those in Singapore. Jireh's journey underscores the transformative power of international internships in fostering global awareness and professional growth.

Alina Chen’s internship at Hamilton-Madison House has been an invaluable journey dedicated to refining her accounting skills. Immersed in the vibrant work culture of her host organization, Alina swiftly adapted and eagerly absorbed firsthand knowledge of accounting practices. She praises the supportive environment cultivated by her colleagues and supervisor, who patiently guided her through diverse accounting tasks.

Throughout her internship, Alina concentrated on developing her accounting abilities, focusing on tasks such as utilizing the organization's software for invoice collection, mastering recording procedures, and meticulously verifying invoice details. Overcoming initial hesitations, she recognized the importance of seeking guidance and actively sought assistance from her team. Alina emphasizes the transformative impact of overcoming shyness in seeking help, noting her colleagues’ enthusiasm and willingness to support her learning.

Alina deeply values the practical experience gained at Hamilton-Madison House, highlighting the hands-on nature of her role within a local American workplace. Her internship has significantly enhanced her technical proficiency while also strengthening her communication skills and confidence in navigating professional challenges. Alina’s journey underscores the profound influence of supportive mentorship and proactive learning in advancing career aspirations in accounting.

This summer of 2024 has proven to be a profound and transformative experience for Jordan Siew Loong Lee during his internship at Calligaris in New York City. Throughout this opportunity, Jordan not only surpassed his own expectations but also acquired a diverse array of invaluable skills under the mentorship of supportive colleagues and a nurturing supervisor. The inclusive workplace environment at Calligaris has played a pivotal role in broadening Jordan’s perspective, exposing him to a variety of viewpoints and innovative approaches.

Jordan consistently praises the supportive atmosphere cultivated by his host and colleagues, highlighting the clear guidance and structured training that empowered him to approach assignments with confidence. Central to Jordan’s internship experience has been the cultivation of positive relationships, for which he is deeply grateful for the time, patience, and unwavering support extended to him throughout his journey. In addition to mastering technical skills like in-depth marketing expertise and client interaction, Jordan has experienced personal growth by embracing a proactive and adaptable approach to his work.

This internship has reinforced Jordan’s belief in the critical importance of proactive problem-solving and adaptability in any professional setting. Through his ability to anticipate needs and seamlessly adapt to changing circumstances, Jordan has exemplified how individuals can become indispensable assets to their organizations. His enriching tenure at Calligaris underscores the profound impact of supportive mentorship and a collaborative work environment in shaping successful career trajectories.