Cultural Activities

FUSIA, a designated sponsor of the U.S. State Department's Exchange Visitor Program (J-1 Visa), recently hosted its annual luncheon to celebrate the 17th year of the Cross-Cultural Internship Program (CCIP). Held at Fraunces Tavern in New York City, the event brought together over 40 attendees, including five current and former U.S. Congress members who came to show their support and congratulate the participants.

Special thanks were extended to Congresswoman Grace Meng, NYS Senators Toby Ann Stavisky and John Liu, NYS Assemblymen Ron Kim and David Weprin, NYC Mayor Eric Adams, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and NYC Councilwoman Sandra Ung for the citations and certificates.

Acknowledgments were also given to NYS Assemblywoman Grace Lee, former NYC Councilman Peter Koo, Judy, Shiang, Yen, Susan, Sunny, June Jee, Mark Ricca, Harbachan Singh, Lisa, Ying Zhou, Nouhayla Bentmim, Brendan Cheung, and Niki Cheng for their attendance.

Thanks were expressed to Lotus and Sing Tao Daily for reporting this news. The organization looks forward to the 18th-anniversary celebration next summer.
One of the student interns, Bruce from Nanyang Technological University, a year 2 Business Marketing student, shared his thoughts on the CCIP's impact.

"The program has significantly enhanced our skills and perspectives on culture. It has inspired me with many ideas that I can take back to Singapore. The benefits of this experience will be long-lasting," Bruce stated.

Another intern, Xuanle, mentioned that she is currently interning in Boston and came all the way to join the event. She is now in her final year at Nanyang Technological University.

"The mentorship and support from our host companies and supervisors have been invaluable," Xuanle remarked.

The event was marked by heartfelt speeches, shared experiences, and recognition of the program’s positive impact. Participants expressed enthusiasm for applying their new skills and insights in their future careers. These experiences are expected to benefit them both personally and professionally, providing them with innovative ideas and perspectives to bring back to their home countries. FUSIA's CCIP J-1 Internship continues to be a memorable and transformative experience, inspiring participants and fostering lasting international connections.

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Exchange intern Hayden set out on a journey through Manhattan, exploring American culture and customs while immersing himself in the city's bustling and vibrant energy. His visits to iconic museums, including the 9/11 Memorial Museum, the Empire State Building Museum, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offered a profound understanding of history, architecture, and art, showcasing the cultural richness they embody.

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Exchange intern Hayden was invited to the Flushing YMCA Board Party during the Christmas season. The festive event was filled with holiday cheer, fun activities, and an opportunity to connect with the local community. It was a memorable way to celebrate Christmas and share in the joy of the season.

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Exchange visitor Hayden arrived in New York City for a winter internship and was warmly welcomed with a dinner hosted by Responsible Officer Elizabeth. The gathering was a great opportunity to connect and set the tone for an exciting and fulfilling internship experience in the bustling city.

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Alumni from various years reunited for a series of gatherings in Hong Kong this October 2024. Attendees included Elaine (2012), Stephen (2013), Ben (2014), Tony (2017), and Kevin (2020). These events were filled with shared stories and reflections, highlighting the lasting connections and meaningful experiences fostered through the CCIP program (www.fusia.net/ccip).

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The spirit of connection and camaraderie brought alumni together for memorable gatherings in Singapore in October 2024. Participants included Carol (2012), Zehao (2012), Erwin (2015), Arun (2021), Bruce (2023), Audrey (2023), and Clara (2023). The gatherings culminated in Win Ee (2019) meeting Carol and RO Elizabeth Kay at the airport to bid them farewell, reflecting the enduring bonds and shared experiences created through the CCIP program (www.fusia.net/ccip).

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FUSIA announced the launch and first application window of 2025 Cross-Cultural Internship Program (www.fusia.net/ccip) alongside its trip to Asia, hosting various info talks across the region. In Singapore, alumni Mitra (2022) and Henri (2022) shared their experiences with incoming students, offering valuable insights into the program and showcasing its opportunities for personal and professional growth. Carol (2012) traveled from another country to attend, demonstrating the strong connections and commitment fostered through the CCIP program.

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FUSIA, a designated sponsor of the U.S. State Department's Exchange Visitor Program (J-1 Visa), recently hosted its annual luncheon to celebrate the 17th year of the Cross-Cultural Internship Program (CCIP). Held at Fraunces Tavern in New York City, the event brought together over 40 attendees, including five current and former U.S. Congress members who came to show their support and congratulate the participants.

Special thanks were extended to Congresswoman Grace Meng, NYS Senators Toby Ann Stavisky and John Liu, NYS Assemblymen Ron Kim and David Weprin, NYC Mayor Eric Adams, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and NYC Councilwoman Sandra Ung for the citations and certificates.

Acknowledgments were also given to NYS Assemblywoman Grace Lee, former NYC Councilman Peter Koo, Judy, Shiang, Yen, Susan, Sunny, June Jee, Mark Ricca, Harbachan Singh, Lisa, Ying Zhou, Nouhayla Bentmim, Brendan Cheung, and Niki Cheng for their attendance.

Thanks were expressed to Lotus and Sing Tao Daily for reporting this news. The organization looks forward to the 18th-anniversary celebration next summer.
One of the student interns, Bruce from Nanyang Technological University, a year 2 Business Marketing student, shared his thoughts on the CCIP's impact.

"The program has significantly enhanced our skills and perspectives on culture. It has inspired me with many ideas that I can take back to Singapore. The benefits of this experience will be long-lasting," Bruce stated.

Another intern, Xuanle, mentioned that she is currently interning in Boston and came all the way to join the event. She is now in her final year at Nanyang Technological University.

"The mentorship and support from our host companies and supervisors have been invaluable," Xuanle remarked.

The event was marked by heartfelt speeches, shared experiences, and recognition of the program’s positive impact. Participants expressed enthusiasm for applying their new skills and insights in their future careers. These experiences are expected to benefit them both personally and professionally, providing them with innovative ideas and perspectives to bring back to their home countries. FUSIA's CCIP J-1 Internship continues to be a memorable and transformative experience, inspiring participants and fostering lasting international connections.

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Alumni Astrid and Clarissa reunited with current participant Clara for a special luncheon in Long Island City, joined by RO. The gathering offered a unique opportunity to share experiences across different program years while celebrating their shared journey in New York. Astrid is now working at BlackRock in NYC, and Clarissa is with NVIDIA, exemplifying the success and lasting connections fostered through the CCIP program (www.fusia.net/ccip).

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FUSIA's exchange interns celebrated their July 4th holiday with an unforgettable journey to the Grand Canyon, immersing themselves in its breathtaking vistas and rugged terrain. The contrast between New York's bustling streets and the vast wilderness of the American West heightened their awe as they marveled at the canyon's panoramic views and ancient beauty. Each step revealed a tapestry of colors and textures, creating a transformative experience where the rhythm of urban life gave way to nature's timeless splendor.

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FUSIA's J-1 exchange intern Alina recently explored the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone National Park. Amidst its diverse landforms and variable climate, she marveled at iconic sights like Old Faithful Geyser, Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake, and the Yellowstone Grand Canyon. She also admired the tranquil beauty of Mammoth Hot Springs and the rushing Yellowstone Waterfall. Along the way, Alina encountered herds of American bison, red deer, and antelopes, making the experience a memorable journey through nature's wonders.

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FUSIA's J-1 exchange intern Er Ting with fellow interns visited Summit One on a weekday to witness the sunset and the Manhattan skyline, creating an unforgettable experience. The unique mirror floors and ceiling added a distinct and memorable touch to the visit. They also took pictures on transparent floors, which, while scary, proved to be a thrilling experience. The visit not only offered breathtaking views but also provided an educational insight into architectural design and urban landscapes.

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FUSIA's J-1 exchange intern Yuke spent an enriching day at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, one of the world’s largest natural history museums. Starting in the dinosaur hall, Yuke marveled at the complete skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex, gaining insights into ancient life on Earth. The Hall of Human Origins, Yuke explored the process of human evolution through ancient artifacts, reflecting the United States' multicultural heritage. In the Hall of Earth and Space, interactive exhibits and multimedia displays illuminated the universe's origins and mysteries, making the visit a journey through time, culture, and the cosmos.

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FUSIA's J-1 exchange interns visited the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC, where they gained insights into the workings of the federal government and the democratic process. Over two days, they toured the Capitol chambers, explored landmarks like the White House, National Museum, and Georgetown, and deepened their understanding of American history and politics. The experience emphasized the importance of civic engagement and active participation in democracy.

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Bruce attended an unforgettable event at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where exquisite food and drinks were complemented by a lively, engaging atmosphere. Surrounded by stunning artwork and the museum’s grand architecture, the evening exuded elegance and sophistication. The combination of delightful delicacies, friendly people, and the breathtaking backdrop made it a truly memorable experience that left a lasting impression.

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FUSIA's J-1 exchange interns enjoyed a memorable trip to the Statue of Liberty, capturing stunning sunset photos of the iconic landmark. The outing continued with a walk through Manhattan and the vibrant energy of Times Square, where the bright lights and bustling atmosphere added to the excitement, making it an unforgettable experience for all.

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On June 7, Fusia's J-1 exchange interns Eva and Yuke, joined Deloitte volunteers for Impact Day of Service at Jamaica's transitional housing residences. Impact Day, a Deloitte initiative, involves professional engagement in over 1,200 projects across 10 U.S. cities. Eva and Yuke, students from Macau, are participating in the NYC Internship Program.

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FUSIA's J-1 exchange interns enjoyed an inspiring dinner with former CEO Mark Ricca, gaining valuable insights from his extensive experience in banking and finance. Mark shared his perspectives on industry challenges, financial strategies, and leadership, along with advice on career development, networking, and adaptability in a dynamic financial landscape. The evening was both enriching and motivational, leaving the interns with a deeper understanding of the field.

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FUSIA's J-1 exchange interns visited the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), immersing themselves in the transformative power of art. From the vibrant Pop Art pieces to the abstract forms of Expressionism, the exhibits sparked discussions about the artists' influences and the social contexts of their work. The visit deepened their appreciation for art's ability to evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and tell powerful stories.

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Sirui spent a day exploring Midtown and Downtown, beginning with a magical visit to the Harry Potter store, where she enjoyed enchanting memorabilia and interactive activities. She then toured the New York Stock Exchange, gaining insight into the world of finance. Sirui marveled at the panoramic views from the Summit Lookout, capturing stunning skyline photos, before strolling through small shops offering unique crafts and trendy fashion, rounding off a delightful and memorable day of exploration.

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In January 2024, FUSIA conducted application window 2 for the CCIP NYC program. During this period, over 500 applications were received for the CCIP NYC programs. Additionally, alumni participated in the info talk, sharing valuable insights into their experiences with the BridgeUSA J-1 exchange program. FUSIA extends heartfelt appreciation to all partner schools, support staff, and alumni, especially those from Singapore, and Tony Chau from the 2016 cohort, for their unwavering support.

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In January 2024, FUSIA organized the second alumni gathering in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macau. The event saw a significant turnout of alumni, with special support from the Singapore alumni community. It was particularly heartening to see alumni who had participated over 10 years ago join the gathering, displaying their enthusiasm for the pre-Lunar New Year celebrations.

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JZ visited Senator Toby Stavisky's office during FUSIA's 2024 CCIP winter program. This visit allowed JZ to gain firsthand exposure to the legislative process and constituent services. JZ received a certificate from Senator Toby Stavisky's office, serving as recognition of their participation and engagement during their visit.

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JZ visited NYS Assemblyman Ron Kim's office during the 2024 FUSIA's CCIP winter program, where he gained valuable insights into legislative operations and constituent services.

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FUSIA's CCIP winter group enjoyed a farewell luncheon at Fraunces Tavern, a historic landmark steeped in history, providing participants with a unique insight into New York City's significance and pivotal events in shaping the nation. Additionally, hosts and supervisors of the program joined the group, creating a warm atmosphere where they shared valuable insights, offered encouragement, and provided thoughtful notes to the students, fostering camaraderie and mentorship that enriched their learning experience and left a lasting impact on their journey in the program.

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During his time at the Jamaica YMCA, JZ had the privilege of meeting with Cedric Ddw, the Executive Director. This experience was enlightening as JZ learned firsthand about the importance of diversity within communities. Through discussions and interactions with Cedric Ddw and other members of the YMCA, JZ developed a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing diverse communities and the role of organizations like the YMCA in providing support and resources.

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JZ visited Columbia University during FUSIA's 2024 CCIP winter program. This visit provided JZ with the opportunity to explore one of the leading institutions in higher education. Through campus tours, meetings with faculty, and engaging discussions, JZ gained valuable insights into academic life and the diverse opportunities available at Columbia.

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JZ, a participant in FUSIA's 2024 CCIP winter program, visited Admerasia, a multicultural marketing ad agency in NYC. This visit offered JZ a firsthand look into the world of multicultural marketing, providing valuable insights into the strategies and techniques used to engage diverse audiences.

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Mitra interned at Congresswoman Grace Meng's district office in Murray Hill, Queens, during the winter of 2024. Though the internship period was brief, Mitra found it to be incredibly enjoyable and rewarding. He enthusiastically shared his experiences with us, highlighting the invaluable insights he gained into the workings of government and the importance of community engagement.

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