Cultural Activities

On June 20, FUSIA/CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) spent the day learning about the government of the United States. CCIP partners with universities in East Asia to provide New York City internships to foreign students so they can gain real world experience and share in a cultural exchange.

The first stop for the exchange visitors was the United Nations Headquarters, located on an 18-acre stretch of land along the East River which has been declared international territory and belongs to the 193 member states of the organization. The group was given a tour and met with international leaders who helped explain the role of the UN and the complexities of international politics.

Julian, from Nanyang Technological University, remarked, "The United Nations is such a big venue. It's good to hear about the work being done to try to bring people together and help those in need. It is important to consider ourselves as global citizens."

For a portion of the group, their UN visit was followed by a trip to the office of United States Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. Senator Gillibrand has represented the state of New York since 2009 and, in 2014, was selected for Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people. At the senator's office, the exchange visitors learned about daily operations and challenges, as well as the key responsibilities of a US senator.

The final stop for the group of exchange visitors was the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office located in Midtown. One of 11 HKETO locations outside of the Greater China Region, the New York office exists to support Hong Kong's economic and political interests in the United States. The visit gave the exchange visitors insight into how Hong Kong effectively serves as a gateway between China and the United States.

"Understanding how different governments function and interact with each other is vital," one of the student leaders stated. "The world economy has no borders so everything we learned today will help me in my future career."

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As 2017 comes to a close, CCIP wishes the very best for its departing participants. This past year has been a special time as participants worked hard as greatly appreciated professionals in their internships and with shared cultural experiences like the Mermaid Parade led by American rock stars Debbie Harry and Chris Stein from the band Blondie, a visit to the United Nations to learn about US government, and classical music performances by the distinguished New York Philharmonic in Cunningham Park.

But, like all good things come they end as the interns leave New York with cherished cultural and work experiences to hold as they become international professionals.

Marilyn, a Chinese University of Hong Kong student, commented "It has been a fantastic experience being in this internship program where I have strengthened my cosmopolitan character in New York! In this time I've learned a lot about American etiquette with my new friends and colleagues, and our shared experience has made a great lasting impression as I continue my professional journey."

CCIP is happy that the participants have had positive cultural experiences while collaborating with working professionals in each of their fields to gain new types of etiquette. Julian, a NTU student, shared "This internship has given me amazing opportunities to work and bond with professional colleagues who share interests in engineering. I've learned so much while sharing happy moments that will stay with me forever."

As our participants have grown, the program has encouraged that the interns balance their skills and strengths to better navigate the professional world to fully realize their potential.

Hayley, a University of Hong Kong student, added "While interning in New York I've had an amazing time working with bright, professional colleagues who have shared encouraging ideas about the cultural differences of the US and Hong Kong. Coming here has been a wonderful experience to balance my skills in teamwork and leadership."

This year the program has successfully guided our interns to build their confidence to continue communication with their new internship colleagues and to further prepare themselves in their promising futures. As Grace, a University of Macau student, aptly stated "It's amazing how much we have all grown in the short but everlasting time in this program. I look forward to continuing my studies with greater confidence in becoming a contributing leader of the global economy!"

As 2017 is coming to a close, the CCIP is already preparing for its 2018 program. Applications will begin to be accepted on October 1st, and CCIP is already arranging a meaningful and informative recruitment process.

As Gutz, a City University of Hong Kong, College of Business student, said "This experience has given me a lot of joyful moments shared with new friends as we learned about American culture. Coming together in this program, discovering new lifestyles, and excelling as international individuals -- what a blast it's been! I am sure that next year's participants will have an outstanding experience!"

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Ready, set, row!

The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York (www.hkdbf-ny.org) is one of the largest dragon boat festivals in the US, an annual sporting and multicultural event held every August on Meadow Lake in Flushing. The festival hosts over 120 dragon boat teams from across North America and provides visitors with traditional Chinese foods and performances.

This year, the Festival celebrated its 27th anniversary with an opening day parade at noon on Saturday, August 12, and the US Dragon Boat Open Championship Race on Sunday, August 13.

Sixteen CCIP J-1 Interns (all exchange visitors from Asia) attended the races and enjoyed the festivities. They wore their team t-shirt featuring the slogan "We're all in the same boat," symbolizing how cultural diversity and cooperation are needed to achieve the great things that the program inspires.

On the water, the interns competed in four of the dragon boat races, including the Saturday Heritage Open 250M, Sunday Educational 250M, Sponsor Challenge 250M, and Media 250M. The paddlers showed their morale and determination in the dragon boat races, inspired by the cheers of their peers.

Team captain Fernando Garcia Albero, a student from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, said, "We worked hard to demonstrate teamwork and our commitment. We wanted to show that CCIP participants are team-oriented and full of can-do energy." The team made a strong showing despite their inexperience. "We had to come together quickly as a team to learn how to work as if we had trained together for years," he added.

"Teamwork makes the dream work," echoed Cathy Li from the Macau University of Science and Technology. "Dragon boat is no easy task, but the fact that it was hard only made the whole festival more memorable. We started with zero experience and successfully completed the races."

Back on dry land, other CCIP students volunteered at the festival booths to meet visitors and interact with local children.

Student leaders crafted and distributed colorful balloon flowers and other inflated icons which attracted hundreds of kids. The students had a lot of fun handcrafting and distributing balloon bracelets, taking photos with the kids, learning more about the local culture, and teaching kids how to make their own balloon art.

"We thought a long time about what to include in our booth," said Hayley Chau, the booth manager and a student from The University of Hong Kong. "We thought colorful balloon art was the best way to represent our spirit and this festive day. Seeing all those smiling faces on every kid told me we made the right choice."

"This was my first time doing balloon art and I absolutely loved it," exclaimed Carrie Chau, a student from City University of Hong Kong, who showed off her balloon "masterpiece." "I had so much fun interacting with the kids while enjoying the atmosphere of such a multi-cultural activity."

At the festival's end on Sunday, the students had dinner together to celebrate their hard work and volunteer efforts over the weekend. In a short time, they will be returning back to their homes and universities to share what they've learned here in New York.

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With the annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival just a week away, the CCIP J-1 interns who are competing in the races gathered at the Flushing Meadows Corona Park to practice as a team. It's a new experience for the students, but even though it was only their second practice together, they are growing as a team.

The Dragon Boat Festival draws crowds from all over the continent to watch hundreds of races while also enjoying cultural entertainment and a smorgasbord of ethnic cuisine. In addition to the racers, CCIP interns will host a cultural booth to interact with the festival visitors.

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Thousands of people lined up along the streets of Jackson Heights on Sunday to watch the annual Ecuadorian Day Parade. The parade celebrates Ecuadorian Independence Day which falls on August 10.

CCIP J-1 Interns (www.theccip.com) took part in this parade by marching with New York City Comptroller, Scott. M. Stringer and staff from his office. This was a great opportunity for exchange visitors to experience the city's melting pot of diverse ethnic and cultural influences that included traditional dances, beauty queens, and colorful floats.

"It was my first time joining an Ecuadorian activity," said Hayley Chau, a student from the University of Hong Kong. "I enjoyed watching the expressive dances and taking photos with the local performers. It was a rare opportunity for me to get to know about this culture."

Comptroller Stringer, who graciously invited the CCIP interns to this unique experience, is a native of New York who has been serving the city for over two decades, including many years as a state assemblyman and as Manhattan Borough President. He has been the Comptroller since 2013.

"I appreciated the chance to join this activity," another student, Ka Yee Lam, said. "People with multi-cultural backgrounds were gathered on the street and celebrating the Ecuadorian Independence Day together. I'd never seen something like this before in Hong Kong."

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In the final month of the program, CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) took advantage of the great deals at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. Riding a chartered bus to the massive shopping center, the exchange visitors spent Saturday afternoon picking up souvenirs for their return home.

A little over an hour north of New York City, Woodbury Common, which has 220 stores, is a popular draw for foreign tourists who can find some of the world's most popular brands at discounted prices. The interns shopped for American brands, in particular, because they are much more expensive overseas.

CCIP participates in a number of group activities throughout the summer, exposing the interns to a variety of cultural experiences. Activities include visiting museums, meeting local government officials, and volunteering at Cunningham Park.

"We've done a lot of things together as a group," one student said. "More than just having a good time in New York, I feel like I've made lifelong friends here."

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In its second session, the Cross Cultural Internship (www.theccip.com) returned to the Majestic Theatre to see Broadway's longest running show, "The Phantom of the Opera." The group of J-1 interns were enthralled by the spectacle of the beloved musical that has entertained audiences all over the world.

"It's one of the most famous shows in the world," said one student of "The Phantom of the Opera." "To see it here in New York City was a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

Debuting in London in 1986, the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical then opened on Broadway in 1988 where it has remained ever since. Having grossed nearly a billion dollars in New York City alone, the worldwide phenomenon includes ornate designs and an iconic score that mixes opera with traditional musical forms.

While the exchange visitors are interning at organizations throughout New York City, they have numerous opportunities to partake in the city's unique cultural offerings.

"The great part about CCIP is that I've met a lot of people and seen so much of the local culture," one student said. "I feel like I actually live here."

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The Grand Mid-Summer Pow-Wow is New York City's oldest and largest Native American celebration. This year's event was held over three consecutive days. During the three days, there were dance contests, unique performances, and traditional arts and crafts exhibition.

The Grand Mid-Summer Pow-Wow was a great opportunity for CCIP exchange visitors who are from the Asia-Pacific region to experience Native American culture. CCIP students engaged in the festival, with feelings of celebration.

The interns were enthusiastic about their experience at the Pow-Wow because they were exposed to many unique customs that they had not previously been acquainted with.

"I didn't know much about the history of the Native Americans," said one student, "so coming to the Pow-Wow was very eye-opening. I learned so much."

Another student added, "All the dancing and the shows were amazing to see. Doing stuff like this is really what makes CCIP so unique."

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After a day of volunteering in Queens' Cunningham Park, CCIP's J-1 interns enjoyed a group BBQ.

The CCIP exchange visitors came to Queens' 358-acre Cunningham Park this past Saturday to do their part as volunteers by raking leaves, picking up trash, and helping with the care of the lawns. This was an opportunity to learn about the spirit of volunteerism, a central tenet of American culture, while also gaining a greater appreciation for the community that they are living among.

When their work was done, the interns enjoyed a BBQ together as they relaxed after their day of volunteering and had a conversation about what they have learned and experienced while interning in New York City.

Marc Haken, and Harbachan Singh, both members of Community Board 8 in Queens and advisers for CCIP, joined in the activity. Marc Haken is also president of the Friends of Cunningham Park, and helped the students apply for the necessary BBQ permit.

"Volunteering is a wonderful addition to my growing experiences interning and living in New York City," Hayley, a student at the University of Hong Kong, remarked of the event.

"This opportunity was especially fruitful. Both the volunteering and our BBQ in this beautiful park were great chances to interact with other participants and gain insights from the senior advisors," said Cathy Li from Macau. "I have to express my thanks to the student leaders for putting this event together and also my thanks to Mr. Haken and Singh for helping us get the BBQ permit."

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The second session of FUSIA/CCIP J-1 interns visited the National September 11 Memorial & Museum on Tuesday evening. Due to weather effecting visibility, the original plan to visit the One World Observatory was rescheduled for the following Monday.

With student leaders procuring free tickets to the 9/11 Museum ahead of time, the group gathered after their individual internships to explore the exhibits, which provided historical context and first-hand accounts of the day of the attack. There is also a collection of artwork created by New York City artists.

The museum is 110,000 square feet and includes numerous exhibitions. The Memorial Exhibition includes walls of photographs of the fallen along with artifacts donated by the families of the victims. The Historical Exhibition stands in the location of the former North Tower and presents the events that occurred on September 11, 2001, while also providing the historical significance of the World Trade Center.

The students were most impressed by One World Trade Center's ultra-modern design and bold style that places it among the tallest buildings in the world.

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On July 23, twelve exchange visitors from the Cross Cultural Internship Program (CCIP) held their first practice at Flushing Corona Park in preparation for their upcoming race at the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, which is held annually in August.

Although it was their first time rowing, the students quickly adjusted to both rowing the boat and rowing as a team.

"It's challenging, of course," said Captain Carrie Chau from the City University of Hong Kong. "But we're confident that we will do well at the festival. We are pretty excited to compete."

The students plan to practice more next week to improve their speed.

"It's all about teamwork. We can't row straight or fast without working together, so that's going to be our main focus," added Captain Fernando, a first-year student at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

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Session B CCIP exchange visitors toured the famed Statue of Liberty, a symbol of the freedom and immigration that make America unique. The statue was given to the United States from the French in memory of the US – France coalition during America’s war for independence. Known throughout the world, the statue is a neoclassical icon that was unveiled in 1886.

"Ellis Island is absolutely amazing. It offers great views of New York and insight into America's history and its unique melting pot character," Cathy Li from the Macau University of Science and Technology stated about her visit to the statue. "I was especially happy to take such nice photos!"

The visit was also beneficial because it gave the exchange visitors an opportunity to discuss America's history in an environment rich with cultural significance.

"I felt the impact of being in such a globally significant site. It's something you see on TV or in pictures so often that its importance is without question," Cathy elaborated about her visit.

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In the midst of their summer program, the CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) spent a Saturday together at Six Flags Great Adventure. The amusement park, which is located in New Jersey and is the second largest in the world, includes 13 roller coasters and dozens of other rides and games spread over eleven themed areas.

Six Flags Great Adventure has millions of visitors each year and is one of the region's most popular amusement parks. Roller coasters include Batman: The Ride and El Toro, one of the fastest and tallest wooden roller coasters in the world. There are also two water rides and a water park.

"We're working hard this summer and are having a lot of interesting educational experiences," one of the activity leaders remarked. "So visiting Six Flags was like a fun reward."

Over the course of the summer, more than 70 exchange visitors will take part in internships and cross-cultural activities. These group activities included Broadway shows, visiting the One World Trade Center, and meeting with local community leaders. Following the program's conclusion, most of the participants will return to begin their next school year.

One student said, "With everything I'm learning and experiencing during CCIP, I know I've gained a lot of skills that I'll be able to use at school and in my career."

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Taking advantage of one of the best museum deals in the city, a group of second-session exchange visitors attended a UNIQLO Free Friday Night at the Museum of Modern Art. CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) followed up the museum by visiting the observation deck of the iconic Empire State Building.

Established in 1929, the MoMA has one of the largest collections of modern art in the world, with exhibits featuring photography, painting, sculpture, and multimedia works. The collection includes works by Frida Kahlo, Jackson Pollock, Vincent van Gogh, and dozens of other luminaries.

While they are in New York, the exchange visitors participate in numerous cultural and art activities. As one of the students said of the MoMA, "Being able to see this famous art is a highlight of my time here. It's a reminder that New York City has so much to offer."

After the museum, the evening continued with a trip to the Empire State Building, one of the most famous skyscrapers ever built. The exchange visitors were very excited to see the city from the 86th floor.

"Joining CCIP has allowed me to do things I've always wanted to do," one student said. "Visiting the Empire State Building has always been a dream of mine."

Among the other activities the exchange visitors will participate in during the summer is the Dragon Boat Festival in Queens and a trip to Boston. The activities are planned to encourage the visitors to experience American culture and get involved in the community.

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On Thursday night, a representative for the New York Police Department met with the CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) to give the new arrivals tips on how to best stay safe while living in the city. The group of exchange visitors are living in Queens and interning with organizations all across New York City.

Since the program's inception, the NYPD has supported CCIP in ensuring the safety of the participants. Led by Officer Mark Burger, the safety talk provided tips on how to navigate the city without being a victim of crime or injury. The talk included a list of dos and don'ts and recommendations for how to protect personal belongings.

"I'm really thankful to Officer Burger for speaking with us," said one student. "New York is intimidating, but the safety talk helped calm my nerves and made me excited to explore."

Officer Burger serves with the 109th precinct, which includes the portion of Flushing where the CCIP interns are living for the summer. In June, first-session interns were invited to a barbecue hosted by the 109th Precinct Community Council.

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Photo: Assemblywoman Rozic (center) at her mobile office on Tuesday July 18, 2017. CCIP student Noreen Lui (left) is studying at the University of Hong Kong and Fernando Garcia Albero (right) studies at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Article: http://qns.com/story/2017/07/18/eastern-queens-politician-hold-mobile-office-hours-bayside-douglaston/

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CCIP participant Karen Ng, who is a J-1 intern at NYS Senator Stavisky's office, attended the City Resource Fair on July 18, 2017 (http://www1.nyc.gov/office-of-the-mayor/news/486-17/mayor-de-blasio-plans--65-million-community-health-center-flushing#/) and had an opportunity to take a photo with Mayor Bill de Blasio at the event.

"Interning in the district office of NYS Senator Toby Ann Stavisky gives me opportunities to gain greater insight about the American community. I thought I would just attend one of the events with the senator, so I was so surprised to see the mayor there," said Karen.

Karen Ng is a year 3 student studying marketing in the College of Business at the City University of Hong Kong. She is interning in New York City for 14 weeks.

Before taking this internship, I wouldn't have believed that I would have done this," added Karen.

"I was initially nervous but the program advisors emphasize the importance of leaving our comfort zones, so I approached the mayor and introduced myself. Taking a photo with the mayor was exciting and it felt like a life milestone."

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FUSIA/CCIP J-1 Exchange Visitor Program (The Cross Cultural Internship Program, CCIP, www.theccip.com) celebrated another year of accomplishment and brought together key supporters of its cultural initiative and exchange visitors themselves by holding the 2017 Recognition Ceremony at Citi Field, home of the Mets, on Monday, July 17.

That night, over 120 guests, including exchange visitors, local and foreign government representatives, university partners, and host representatives, attended the event to celebrate the joint efforts of the greater New York City community and exchange visitors from Asia and Pacific nations to promote cultural exchange through the CCIP exchange visitor program.

Government officials in attendance:

- NYS Assembly Member David Weprin (also one of the internship hosts)
- NYC Councilman Peter Koo
- Chris A. Halecki from the US Department of State
- Eugene Ng (Ng Chang Yang, Eugene) - Singapore Consul
- Claudia Yeung - Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office, New York

Representatives from various government officials also presented certificates, citations, and proclamations recognizing the involved parties' efforts and achievements of the program in its cultural endeavors (www.theccip.com/award):

- US Senator for New York, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
- Congresswoman Grace Meng (also one of the internship hosts)
- Congressman Joseph Crowley

- NYS Senator Toby Ann Stavisky (a also one of the internship hosts)
- NYS Senator Tony Avella
- NYS Assemblyman Ron Kim (also one of the internship hosts)
- NYS Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (also one of the internship hosts)
- NYS Assemblywoman Yuh-Line Niou

- NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio
- NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer
- NYC Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer
- NYC Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams
- NYC Queens Borough President Melinda Katz

- Public Advocate for the City of New York Latitia James
- NYC Councilmember Rory Lancman
- NYC Councilmember Barry S. Grodenchi

Representatives from host organizations and partner universities, along with community leaders, were presented handmade plaques as a token of appreciation to them for helping the exchange visitor internship program further its mission of promoting cultural exchange. Selected students and host organizations took the stage to describe the positive experience of collaborating with the program and its participants.

The ceremony commemorated the students' experiences in the program with a video presentation produced by the exchange visitors. The photos featured in the video offered a touching look at student life that also took students on a trip down memory lane.

Most remarkably for everyone in attendance, the stadium was filled with enthusiastic cheering and applause for the students, who had built meaningful relationships with each other and the community at large.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Marc A. Haken, the Youth, Education, and Library Committee Chair of Community Board 8 in Queens (CB 8Q) and President of Friends of Cunningham Park and a program advisor, who thanked all parties' collaborative efforts, which contributed immensely to the success of CCIP in its goodwill initiative.

A baseball game between the New York Mets and St. Louis Cardinals followed the close of the ceremony, providing students with a beloved and classic American experience to end the night. While the ceremony marked the end of the first wave of the 2017 CCIP participation, it also marked the beginning for Session B students, who have seven exciting weeks in the US to look forward to.

Most remarkably for everyone in attendance, the stadium was filled with enthusiastic cheering and applause for the students, who had built meaningful relationships with each other and the community at large:

"The CCIP brings together a range of students from top universities across Asia-Pacific and connects us with meaningful host organization from different industries in New York City. Working at Fusia has helped to nurture important inter and intra organization communication skills as well as many software related skills. What I did not expect was making close friends from such a variety of backgrounds. I can safely say I have gained a sense of professionalism and global mindedness thanks to this amazing program," said Julian Chang, Nanyang Technological University.

"Not only do I gain an internship experience but I also meet lifelong friends and build a professional mind set throughout the program. During the seven weeks, I've worked with colleagues from different countries, visited famous places over New York City, and had a dialogue with different government officers. One of the great benefits I obtained, other than knowledge, is that the mind set and attitude a professional should have. I do believe that these valuable things I learnt bring me closer to the road to success," said Gutz Hui, City University of Hong Kong.

"CCIP is definitely worth the effort. The whole package of the internship experience and cultural exchange makes the program a golden opportunity. After joining, students learn more about themselves by taking different leader roles. I became more mature and confident about myself, which will be beneficial to my future career, " said Basil Kwan, the Hong Kong University of Science & Technology.

"My first internship is a valuable and memorable experience for me. Over the past two months, I appreciated the guidance and help I gained, and for the first time I have experienced working life outside campus. I lived with students from different backgrounds and experienced the diverse of the United States in this immigrant city. Living a life outside the campus makes me think more about the life after graduation. Now I'm looking forward to the challenges and gains coming next month," said Grace Ye, the University of Macau.

"I've never had such a fruitful internship before. CCIP allows me to experience working in a multicultural city without fear of the uncertainties that we might encounter during interning in a foreign country. I’ve met so many friends here and also learnt the differences of cultures. I feel myself becoming a professional team player who can work with people from different countries," said Jamie Lo, the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

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Nearly 50 CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) traveled to the nation's capital over the weekend. The students from a dozen universities in East Asia took a bus from New York City to Washington DC to learn about the branches of government in person.

This visit offered the exchange visitors greater insight into the American government and a chance to expand their cultural experience.

In the morning, the exchange visitors met with Congresswoman Grace Meng, a Democratic member of the House of Representatives for New York State. She was available for a meet-and-greet in which the students had their pictures taken. Then, they toured Capitol Hill with Kevin Crowley from the US Department of State's Bureau of education and Cultural Affairs. After the tour, the group split into smaller group and toured around the DC areas.

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On Wednesday evening, CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) had dinner with Mark Ricca, the president and CEO of First American International Bank. It was a special opportunity to learn how the bank interacts with and supports the community.

FAIB was founded in 1999, specifically with the purpose of serving the Chinese-American immigrant population in New York City. From its first branch in Brooklyn, the bank has grown to include multiple branches in Queens and Manhattan. The staff is fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, and multiple Chinese dialects.

"It's impressive to see how the Chinese population in New York City has built such a strong community," a student leader said.

Mr. Ricca's more than 25 years of business experience includes expertise in finance and law, with a special focus on community banking. He was the managing partner at Ricca & Donnelly and is currently a professor. His involvement in the Chinatown community includes being on the board of the Chinatown YMCA and a director and secretary of the Chinese American Bankers Association.

After dinner and Mr. Ricca's talk, the exchange visitors had a better understanding of how businesses can benefit the community.

"It's very important that a business gives back to the community it serves," a student leader explained of what he had learned from Mr. Ricca's talk. "Neither one can be successful without the other."

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The CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) were given a unique opportunity to meet with Councilman Peter Koo last Monday evening. The group met at the councilman's office to discuss government in New York.

Councilman Koo was elected to the New York City Council in 2009 to represent District 20, which includes parts of Flushing. Prior to joining the city council, he founded Starside Pharmacy, which has multiple locations in Queens. Due to his numerous community activities and philanthropic works, Councilman Koo has been called the "Mayor of Flushing."

The councilman shared his years of experience with the exchange visitors and introduced them to the complex political relationship between city and state governments. Originally immigrating to the United States from Hong Kong in 1971, he has a perspective on what it takes to succeed in America that was of particular interest to the group of interns.

"I admire how much Councilman Koo has accomplished in his life," a student leader stated. "He worked hard and took advantage of opportunities here in America. He's had a career that I would like to have."

The exchange visitors are in New York City to intern in a variety of career fields, including engineering, marketing, and journalism. In addition to developing professional skills, the group participates in numerous activities, such as meeting with government officials and visiting museums where they learn more about American culture, art, and politics.

After having spent the evening with the councilman, the exchange visitors expressed their appreciation for his time. One student commented, "The fact that such a busy man would take the time to meet with us really shows how much he cares about his community."

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As one session comes to a close, another begins. The Cross Cultural Internship Program (www.theccip.com) welcomed its second session of interns to New York City with a post-arrival orientation. At the session, the group reviewed information it will need to succeed while here and discussed potential group activities.

Led by Elizabeth Kay, the program's responsible officer and founder, the orientation was also a time for the new arrivals to meet and get to know each other. The participants are students from a dozen universities across East Asia, some of whom have never been to the United States previously.

"I'm excited for the next two months," one of the students said. "I'm a little nervous, too, but we've had a lot of preparation, and I know I'm here with a good group."

As she did with the first session, following the orientation, Elizabeth took the group leaders to dinner to express appreciation for their efforts. These leaders will be in charge of organizing the activities and serve as a liaison between the exchange visitors and the program administrators.

"This is a great opportunity," one of the student leaders said. "It's not only a chance to gain skills for my career, but I'm going to meet new people who I hope to stay in touch with for a long time."

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CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) celebrated America's Independence Day in New York City while watching Macy's spectacular firework show. With the Fourth of July falling on a Tuesday this year, the program's exchange visitors enjoyed a day off from their internships to join in the holiday festivities and experience one of America's great traditions.

Student leaders arranged for the group to gather in late afternoon and travel to Brooklyn Bridge Park to view the firework show, which can also be seen from Queens and Manhattan. As the largest Independence Day display in the country, Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Show is witnessed by millions of residents and tourists each year.

"Being in America for its Independence Day was an honor," one student said. "People from all over the world were watching the fireworks together."

The exchange visitors come from universities across East Asia to live and intern in New York City and join in a cultural exchange. The group participates in a variety of activities that help them engage with the community and learn more about American culture. Later in the summer, the group will travel to Washington D.C. and Boston.

Expressing gratefulness for the local community, one student said, "It's nice to feel welcomed here and be able to experience American traditions. I've seen so much in my time here – I will miss this city a lot."

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On Sunday, June 25, New York City's annual Gay Pride Parade marched through the city from Midtown to the West Village. The event has become one of the city's biggest celebrations, and it draws participants and observers from all around the world to celebrate gay culture and tolerance. The parade is the culmination of Gay Pride Week and is always an exuberant and star-studded event.

This year, the Cross Cultural Internship Program (www.theccip.com), an EVP J-1 Intern program sponsored by FUSIA, was in attendance, as a group of exchange visitors traveled into the city to see the parade. It was the first year the program has attended the parade, and it definitely made an impression on the visitors.

"There are so many participants," Basil from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology said. "It was such an eye-opening experience considering the parade here in the States is so much larger in scale than that in Hong Kong."

CCIP affords the exchange visitors many opportunities to experience American culture firsthand. For many of the participants, this is their first time in the United States, so they are gaining a brand new perspective on America.

"Every week, I'm seeing a new part of America," said Dora from the Hong Kong Shue Yan University. "America is a place where each and every individual's rights are being valued."

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Before their internships ended, exchange visitors from East Asia took advantage of the great deals at the Woodbury Common, an outlet center about an hour and a half north of New York City. The Cross Cultural Internship Program (www.theccip.com), an EVP J-1 Intern program sponsored by FUSIA, arranges for students from across Asia to intern in New York City and experience American culture while they're here.

Woodbury Common is one of the largest outlet centers in the region, with over 200 retail stores and restaurants for visitors to find great deals. The center, which is visited by millions of shoppers from around the world every year, is so large that different sections are color-coded to help keep shoppers from getting lost.

"Everything is much cheaper here than it is back home," Rice from the Chinese University of Hong Kong stated. "I'm taking home gifts for my family and friends, and for myself, of course."

Outings like the shopping trip to Woodbury Common are organized by student leaders. The activity isn't just about buying souvenirs, it gives the exchange visitors opportunities to strengthen their leadership abilities and practice the skills they've been gaining while at their internships. It's also a chance for the group to see more of the United States outside of New York City.

On organizing this trip, Xiyao from Nanyang Technological University said, "I worked with my other leaders to make sure this was a fun activity for the whole group. I think everyone had a great time and came back with something new."

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As the longest running show in Broadway history, "The Phantom of the Opera" has run continuously at the Majestic Theatre since 1988 and was the first and only musical in Broadway's history to surpass 10,000 performances. The musical has been seen by over 140 million people around the world and continues to be one of Broadway's most popular productions.

On Thursday, June 22, CCIP J-1 interns took the night to see the phenomenon for themselves. Each year, witnessing Andrew Lloyd Webber's beloved musical is always one of the most talked-about activities among the group.

"I was really excited to see this show," Ling from Nanyang Technology University said. "I've heard the music before, but seeing a live performance was an amazing experience. It's obvious why it's still popular even after so many years."

In fact, tickets for "The Phantom of the Opera" can still be hard to come by, which is why the group leaders arranged to purchase discounted group tickets ahead of time. Twenty exchange visitors attended this show, and in July, another group will see the brand new "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" musical. Cultural outings like these are a big part of what makes CCIP a unique internship opportunity.

"It's great that I can gain career experience at my internship and still have these kinds of opportunities to enjoy New York City," Brian from the City University of Hong Kong said. "I feel like I'm getting a full experience of the city even though I'm only here for a couple months."

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On June 20, FUSIA/CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) spent the day learning about the government of the United States. CCIP partners with universities in East Asia to provide New York City internships to foreign students so they can gain real world experience and share in a cultural exchange.

The first stop for the exchange visitors was the United Nations Headquarters, located on an 18-acre stretch of land along the East River which has been declared international territory and belongs to the 193 member states of the organization. The group was given a tour and met with international leaders who helped explain the role of the UN and the complexities of international politics.

Julian, from Nanyang Technological University, remarked, "The United Nations is such a big venue. It's good to hear about the work being done to try to bring people together and help those in need. It is important to consider ourselves as global citizens."

For a portion of the group, their UN visit was followed by a trip to the office of United States Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. Senator Gillibrand has represented the state of New York since 2009 and, in 2014, was selected for Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people. At the senator's office, the exchange visitors learned about daily operations and challenges, as well as the key responsibilities of a US senator.

The final stop for the group of exchange visitors was the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office located in Midtown. One of 11 HKETO locations outside of the Greater China Region, the New York office exists to support Hong Kong's economic and political interests in the United States. The visit gave the exchange visitors insight into how Hong Kong effectively serves as a gateway between China and the United States.

"Understanding how different governments function and interact with each other is vital," one of the student leaders stated. "The world economy has no borders so everything we learned today will help me in my future career."

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On Saturday, CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) rode the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. One of the most iconic symbols in America, the Statue of Liberty was dedicated in 1886 and designated as a New York City Landmark in 1976. The copper statue stands at 151 feet tall in New York Harbor.

For the exchange visitors, it was an opportunity to see in person a monument that has been photographed countless times by millions of visitors each year. The group took plenty of their own photos while riding the ferry and as they stood beneath Lady Liberty.

Sophie from the City University of Hong Kong remarked, "I've seen pictures of the Statue of Liberty my whole life, so I was very excited to see it in person. I think I took a hundred photos."

After visiting the statue, the ferry continued to Ellis Island, the former immigrant arrival station where over 12 million new arrivals were processed from 1892 to 1954. The island, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, now houses the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

"Learning what it was like to immigrate to America through Ellis Island was fascinating," said Marilyn from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. "I really enjoy seeing all the photographs and artifacts from history."

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It is a Cross Cultural Internship Program tradition to give out paper cut honors to host organizations and supporters at their annual Recognition Ceremony. The paper cut gifts are hand-made by selected students, with each year involving a unique theme. This year's theme was the Year of the Rooster, symbolizing the hope and excitement of the students as they gain new cultural appreciation as exchange visitors.

This year's design was created by Kelly Hao from Nanyang Technology University. The execution team for the creation of the gifts was made up of all Session A students and was led by Jimeng, Grace, Gutz, Julian, Ellis, Basil, Rice, Karen, and David, students from various universities in East Asia.

"Creating the paper cuts was a lot harder than I first expected it to be, but it was worth it. I really appreciate the meaningful impact that my host had on me and I wanted to give something back," said Student Leader, Julian from Nanyang Technology University.

Gutz, another student leader who attends the City University of Hong Kong, added, "I usually don't do arts and crafts. However, there was a lot of meaning to this and it was really fulfilling. I hope all the hosts will love their frames as much as we had fun making them!"

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Brooklyn's wildest and most eclectic party returned to Coney Island over the weekend, with the annual Mermaid Parade drawing thousands of participants and onlookers from all around the country.

Celebrating its 35th year, the parade attracted revelers from throughout the boroughs to kick off the summer with nautical-themed costumes and brightly colored art. Every year, the parade anoints a new King Neptune and Queen Mermaid, the parade's royal couple. This year, the parade's royalty were Debbie Harry and Chris Stein of the band Blondie.

"That was really great!" Xinwei from the Nanyang Technological University enthused. "All of the costumes were amazing to look at, and the whole crowd was having a great time."

CCIP, an EVP J-1 Intern program sponsored by FUSIA, brings students from East Asia to intern in New York City. While the exchange visitors are here, they have many opportunities to experience some of the region's most unique events. The Mermaid Parade certainly fits that description, and year after year, it is one of the most talked-about activities the exchange visitors experience.

Before the group attended the parade, they gathered to make paper cut honors, handmade gifts that are given to each year's hosts and program supporters. CCIP relies on the many community and business leaders who support the program each year, and the personal paper cut honors are just one way in which the program leaders and participants can show their appreciation.

"I'm grateful to everyone who makes this program a possibility," Karen from the City University of Hong Kong said. "The experiences I've already had in my short time in New York will be with me forever, and I probably never would have had them if not for joining CCIP."

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CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) traveled to Cunningham Park on Thursday, June 15, to enjoy the music of the New York Philharmonic. The free event, which began at 8 pm, included powerful performances of the works of renowned composers Antonin Dvorak, Leonard Bernstein, and George Gershwin. Immediately following the concert, the night was filled with an impressive fireworks display.

While there, the exchange visitors took the opportunity to interact with many of the other attendees and discuss their reasons for being in the city. By the time the night sky was lit up by the colorful explosions of dazzling fireworks, the exchange visitors had already enjoyed one of the defining experiences of their time in the city.

"It was a beautiful night to be in the park," said Lai Man from Nanyang Technological University. “As someone who has a deep appreciation for orchestra music, I really enjoyed being able to catch the New York Philharmonic in such a setting. There were locals and people from all over who came down for the performance and fireworks, and everyone seems to have enjoyed themselves.”

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This past Wednesday, CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) were welcomed to a summer BBQ hosted by the New York Police Department's 109th Precinct Community Council.

The 109th precinct covers a culturally diverse population and includes the neighborhoods of Queensboro Hill, College Point, East Flushing, and Downtown Flushing, where the exchange visitors are staying while interning in New York City. The 109th Precinct Community Council is a nonprofit that works directly with the NYPD and serves as a liaison between the department and the community that it protects.

At the BBQ, the CCIP J-1 interns mingled with police officers and community activists and enjoyed delicious food and learned about the efforts the council and NYPD make to maintain an open dialogue with the community. They also shared about their experiences in the J-1 Internship program as well as what life is like for them back home.

"I had a lot of fun tonight," said Julian from Nanyang Technological University. "Knowing that the police are so involved in the community here makes me feel more secure. I really enjoyed getting to know them. The members of the council were very welcoming to us, too – they made us feel like we are not just visitors, but actually part of the community."

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On Tuesday, June 13, FUSIA/CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) attended the Museum Mile Festival. This outing is consistently one of the favorites among the group's cultural activities.

The festival, which is held along Fifth Avenue, is an annual event that has drawn millions of visitors ever since its inception in 1978. The free event stretches from 82nd to 105th streets and includes open entry to seven different museums, including the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Among the crowds that had arrived from all over the world, the exchange visitors enjoyed experiencing the cultural history of New York City and seeing some of history's most cherished works of art.

"I loved visiting all of the museums," said one student, "but my favorite was the Guggenheim. The building is a work of art."

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On June 11, CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) visited the Kupferberg Holocaust Center (KHC) for the first time. Operated by and located on the campus of Queensborough Community College, the center houses historical documents, books, and audio-visual materials to serve as a "learning laboratory" for the school and the community.

The interns were given a rare opportunity to visit the center on a weekend, attending a special exhibit entitled "The Jacket From Dachau: One Survivor's Search for Justice, Identity, and Home." Through historical photos, maps, and first-person testimonies, the exhibit tells the story of one man's immigration to the US after surviving imprisonment in a concentration camp.

"There are parts of history that are hard to understand," one of the student leaders said. "I'm grateful that the center gave us a chance to see this exhibit – it was eye-opening."

After the group toured the exhibit, they had a luncheon with Marc Haken and Harbachan Singh, two CCIP advisors who both have longstanding relationships with the program and are active in the community.

Mr. Haken serves on numerous boards throughout Queens and has devoted his life to building bridges between cultures. Mr. Singh is the former president of the Queens Civic Congress and the founder of the Sikh American Friendship Foundation, and he serves on the Advisory Board for the Kupferberg Holocaust Center.

During the meal, the two advisors discussed a wide range of topics as the two men shared their years of experience and wisdom. "I really appreciate Mr. Haken and Mr. Harbachan speaking with us," said another of the student leaders. "They offered insights into parts of New York City as well as the Jewish community that I knew nothing about before."

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Over the weekend, CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) visited one of New York City's most iconic performance venues, Carnegie Hall. The group attended a performance of Inspirational Liaisons, a concert series that was originally started in Hong Kong.

The group was gifted free tickets to the performance by an alumni of the University of Hong Kong, one of CCIP's partner schools. The concert featured chamber music by Vaughan Williams, Maurice Ravel, and George Gershwin, all 20th century contemporaries who inspired each other's compositions. Each of the ensemble's six performers are classically trained and have received wide acclaim for their talents.

Describing the evening, Julian from Nanyang Technological University said, "It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see a concert at Carnegie Hall. You hear about it all the time, but actually being there: The atmosphere was ecstatic. Best concert of the year!"

Missy from Nanyang Technological University added, "The performers were all so talented, and the music was beautiful. I'm so grateful I had this opportunity."

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Erected in the wake of the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers, the One World Trade Center now stands in their place as the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Tens of millions of visitors from all over the world have come to the 9/11 memorial since it opened in 2011.

On Tuesday evening, exchange visitors from the Cross Cultural Internship Program (www.theccip.com), an EVP J-1 intern program sponsored by FUSIA, gathered in Manhattan after their respective internships to visit the building along with the 9/11 Memorial Museum.

The activity leaders arrived early to get complimentary tickets to the museum. The 9/11 Memorial plaza consists of two reflecting pools and waterfalls, each about an acre in size, that sit in the bases of the fallen Twin Towers. In the museum, the students witnessed solemn memorials to all those who lost their lives in the attacks as well as a historical exhibition outlining the events of the day and the history of the buildings.

"We reserved the tickets ahead of time. I am grateful that we had the opportunity to come and see this exhibit for free as I learned a great deal," said Zhaoyi Ye, a student leader who studies at the University of Macau.

After the museum, the group crossed to the One World Trade Center and rode the high-speed elevators to the observation deck. The exchange visitors excitedly took photos as the sun began to set in the distance, creating absolutely stunning vistas as far as the eye could see.

For the exchange visitors, this evening was a chance to learn both about the city's tragic past and its resilient spirit. It is an experience that they will remember for the rest of their lives.

"The city is impressive from any height," expressed another student leader, "but seeing it from 100 stories up was amazing. I was in awe."

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The past Sunday, CCIP J-1 interns were invited to attend the Youth Leadership Forum organized by China AIDS Fund. The event took place at the Sheraton East LaGuardia Hotel.

China AIDS Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of medically, economically, and socially deprived children in China while cultivating heritage and leadership in youth of Chinese descent.

At the forum, CCIP J-1 interns listened to a variety of prominent Asian-American speakers, including Ti Hua Chang, an award-winning journalist, New York State Assemblywoman Yuh-Line Niou, and Charles Wang, a businessman and philanthropist who co-founded Computer Associates International, Inc. With their messages to the students, the speakers both educated and inspired.

"I was really motivated by the speakers," Julian, a student leader from the Nanyang Technological University, said after the forum. "Even though I'm still in school, it doesn't mean I can't be active in my community."

Another student from Macau added, "I greatly appreciated this opportunity because it allowed me to meet new people, and it was a chance to practice business networking skills. I was especially happy to meet students from the local Asian-American community."

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The CCIP J-1 interns (www.theccip.com) arrived at Cunningham Park on Saturday morning to offer their services to keep the park beautiful. Cunningham Park is one of the largest in Queens and offers sports fields, bike paths, hiking trails, and plenty of wide open space for residents to enjoy.

At over 350 acres, keeping Cunningham Park clean is a massive undertaking that requires the assistance of volunteers. The exchange visitors raked leaves, picked up trash, and assisted generally with park maintenance. Members of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation were also on hand to guide the group and provide insight into the city's sprawling park system.

"The park was so big, I had no idea," Samantha from the Education University of Hong Kong said. "It's really beautiful and so nicely maintained. There are all kinds of facilities throughout the park, and most of the work to keep them clean is done by volunteers like us."

In its efforts to introduce participants to core American values, CCIP offers the exchange visitors opportunities to experience volunteerism. For many of the program's participants, this inspired them to seek out more such opportunities when they return home.

Marilyn from the Chinese University of Hong Kong said, "It felt good to see our effort make a difference. This opportunity to volunteer and take part in the community beyond my internship was really a lot of fun."

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Every year, one of the highlights for the exchange visitors of the Cross Cultural Internship Program (www.theccip.com), an EVP J-1 intern program sponsored by FUSIA, is the first Friday visit to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) followed by a trip to the observation deck of the Empire State Building. In one outing, the group took in some of the world's most groundbreaking works of art and incomparable 360-degree views of New York City.

With exhibits featuring the works of Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, and Frank Lloyd Wright, along with creations and new art forms pioneered by living artists, the MoMA, founded in 1929, offers art lovers a truly unique and captivating experience. For most of the exchange visitors, this was the first time to see these renowned works of art in person.

This activity, led by three student leaders, provided the exchange visitors a fuller experience of New York City and American culture while they are here to learn at their professional internships.

"I've glad to have the opportunity to lead," a student leader said. "It provides me with greater responsibility and another perspective on my training aside from my internship."

After the museum, the group traveled together to the Empire State Building where they ascended to New York's highest open-air observatory. The Empire State Building, a National Historic Landmark, is one of the world's most iconic buildings, a 102-story skyscraper constructed in 1931 that has held the title of New York's and even the world's tallest building at various points in its history.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Every year, one of the highlights for the exchange visitors of the Cross Cultural Internship Program (www.theccip.com), an EVP J-1 intern program sponsored by FUSIA, is the first Friday visit to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) followed by a trip to the observation deck of the Empire State Building. In one outing, the group took in some of the world's most groundbreaking works of art and incomparable 360-degree views of New York City.

With exhibits featuring the works of Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, and Frank Lloyd Wright, along with creations and new art forms pioneered by living artists, the MoMA, founded in 1929, offers art lovers a truly unique and captivating experience. For most of the exchange visitors, this was the first time to see these renowned works of art in person.

This activity, led by three student leaders, provided the exchange visitors a fuller experience of New York City and American culture while they are here to learn at their professional internships.

"I've glad to have the opportunity to lead," a student leader said. "It provides me with greater responsibility and another perspective on my training aside from my internship."

After the museum, the group traveled together to the Empire State Building where they ascended to New York's highest open-air observatory. The Empire State Building, a National Historic Landmark, is one of the world's most iconic buildings, a 102-story skyscraper constructed in 1931 that has held the title of New York's and even the world's tallest building at various points in its history.

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On Thursday, June 1, the exchange visitors of the Cross Cultural Internship Program (www.theccip.com), an EVP J-1 intern program sponsored by FUSIA, went as a group to learn about American banks and the broader banking system at the Flushing branch of TD Bank. The store manager, Calvin Chu, provided in overview of the industry and insights into how his bank sets itself apart.

With its roots in Toronto, TD Bank formed as a merger between the US-based Commerce Bank and the Canadian TD Banknorth. The bank emphasizes customer service and community engagement and is open seven days a week. The branch in Flushing has partnered with CCIP for many years, allowing exchange visitors to open up short-term bank accounts for their time in the United States free of charge.

The visit to TD Bank was organized by two of the student leaders for the program. For the exchange visitors, this visit allowed them to see the differences and similarities between banking in America and in Asia and provided a greater understanding of global markets. Mr. Chu has many years of experience in the industry and had a great deal to share with the group.

"I think it's cool that local businesses do so much to help out this program," Grace Ye from the University of Macau said. "I learned a lot from Mr. Chu that I had never expected to know about."

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Eleven CCIP J-1 Interns (www.theccip.com) attended a jazz concert at the Flushing Town Hall last Wednesday evening (May 31). The concert featured a fusion performance led by Macy Chen, a famous Taiwan-born jazz singer, accompanied by a jazz band.

This opportunity was presented by CAN, a nonprofit organization. Sing Tao Daily News, one of the program's host organizations, kindly sponsored the students' tickets for this wonderful occasion.

Macy Chen delivered a stellar performance and wowed the CCIP students with her talent. In addition, many of the those who attended felt fortunate to visit Flushing Town Hall, a historic landmark in Flushing.

Located on Northern Boulevard, the hall was originally established in 1645 as the seat of government in Flushing until the township was consolidated with New York City in 1898.

"It was my pleasure to be the primary activity leader this time to organize the concert for my host, Sing Tao Daily,” said Megan, one of the activity leaders and a student from the University of Macau. "It's a lot of fun to enjoy a concert like this, which makes our J-1 internship more meaningful. "

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For Memorial Day, the Cross Cultural Internship Program's (www.theccip.com), an EVP J-1 intern program sponsored by FUSIA, exchange visitors attended in the 90th Annual Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade. The largest of its kind in the nation, the parade that takes place in Queens, New York, recognizes veterans and those who have fallen in combat. The festivities included a closing ceremony to celebrate special honorees and a performance by The Blue Aces, a cover band made up of active US Air Force members.

This outing was led by two student leaders who helped plan the departure time and the pre-parade lunch. CCIP's student leaders oversee group activities and administrative duties.

The exchange visitors gathered before the parade, which started at 2 pm, and traveled to the location by pus. At the parade, the exchange visitors enjoyed meeting locals and learning more about America's history.

People travel from all over the region to come to the parade, so there was an assortment of attendees through which the exchange visitors could appreciate America's diversity.

"People always say America is a melting pot," one of the students remarked, "and being at this parade, I can see what they mean."

As this was also only the first or second weekend in the program for all of the exchange visitors, the parade was an ideal outing for the students from a variety of schools across Asia to get to know each other better.

"To see everyone gathered together for Memorial Day was really nice," another student commented. "It felt like a really important thing to experience while I'm here."

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This past Sunday, the Cross Cultural Internship Program (CCIP, www.theccip.com), an EVP J-1 intern program sponsored by FUSIA, welcomed its second group of exchange visitors with a post-arrival orientation. The new arrivals are among 74 total participants in the program this year who will intern at various companies and organizations throughout New York City while also experiencing the cultural and artistic diversity that the city has to offer.

The orientation was hosted by the program director, Elizabeth Kay, with the assistance of two student leaders. The evening orientation was a light and relaxed way to prepare the new arrivals for the weeks ahead of them and briefly reiterate important information they will need to succeed. The exchange visitors were excited to get to know one another better and eager to ask questions about their weeks in New York. The student leaders also came together to discuss the upcoming group activities.

After the orientation, Elizabeth Kay took the group leaders out to dinner to recognize their support. At the dinner, the group leaders shared what they've learned so far, and discussed what they hoped to contribute to the program and what they hoped to gain. The dinner was a happy atmosphere that set the tone for an exciting summer ahead.

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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.

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