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.

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

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.

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

CCIP interns Bruce and Jireh embarked on an unforgettable journey during their July 4th holiday, venturing into the awe-inspiring depths of the Grand Canyon. As they traversed the rugged terrain, each step revealed breathtaking vistas that stretched beyond imagination. Towering canyon walls framed their every photograph, capturing moments that seemed to suspend time itself.

The contrast between the bustling streets of New York and the expansive wilderness of the American West was stark and invigorating. They marveled at the sheer size of America, where nature's grandeur unfolded in panoramic views that humbled even the most seasoned travelers. Each vista offered a glimpse into the untamed beauty that has drawn adventurers and dreamers for generations.

Amidst the canyon's vastness, Bruce and Jireh found themselves immersed in a tapestry of colors and textures, each turn revealing a new facet of the land's ancient history and enduring splendor. Their holiday became a symphony of exploration and wonder, where the pulse of urban life gave way to the rhythmic heartbeat of nature itself.

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J-1 intern Alina recently visited Yellowstone National Park, one of the most spectacular national parks in the world. Yellowstone's rich landforms and variable climate, with hot air near the geysers, provided a breathtaking backdrop. While driving through the park, Alina witnessed sunlight shining brightly on the landscape. She visited the Old Faithful Geyser, the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, the tranquil Yellowstone Lake, the rushing Yellowstone Waterfall, the magnificent Yellowstone Grand Canyon, and the beautiful Mammoth Hot Springs. Additionally, she saw herds of American bison and frequently encountered red deer and antelopes.

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J-1 intern Er Ting and 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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On this day, J-1 intern Yuke visited the American Museum of Natural History in New York, one of the largest natural history museums in the world. The museum, known for its vast array of exhibits from around the globe, including dinosaur fossils and anthropological artifacts, provided an incredibly enriching experience. Yuke started the tour in the dinosaur hall, where a complete skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex offered a vivid understanding of ancient life on Earth. In the Hall of Human Origins, Yuke explored the process of human evolution through ancient remains and tools from different cultures, highlighting the rich historical heritage of the United States as a multicultural nation. The Hall of Earth and Space featured topics on the origin of the universe and planetary motion, with interactive exhibits and multimedia displays enhancing the understanding of the cosmos's vastness and mystery.

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Last CCIP interns Neka, Evelyn, Sirui, Er Ting, Jireh, and Bruce visited the US Capitol building in Washington, DC. Over the two days they spent in the city, they toured the Capitol and learned about how the government works. They saw the chambers where Congress meets, which gave them a deeper appreciation for the democratic process. They also visited other famous landmarks such as the White House, National Museum, and Georgetown. Through this trip, they developed a better understanding of American history and politics. Seeing the seat of the federal government up close highlighted for them the importance of civic engagement and active participation in democracy.

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Bruce attended an incredible event at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, which was truly an unforgettable experience. The evening was filled with exquisite food and drinks, each delicacy more delightful than the last. The ambiance was enhanced by the friendly and engaging people, making the event even more enjoyable. The stunning artwork and grand architecture of the museum provided a breathtaking backdrop, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the night. Overall, it was a memorable occasion that left a lasting impression.

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CCIP interns Eva, Yuke, Evelyn, Alina, Neka and Bruce had a wonderful trip with the other interns to visit the Statue of Liberty. They aimed to capture great photos of the iconic landmark with the sunset as their backdrop, making for some memorable snapshots. Afterward, they walked around Manhattan, soaking in the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of Times Square. The lively energy, bright lights, and constant activity of the area added to the excitement of their outing, making it an enjoyable and unforgettable experience for everyone.

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On June 7, CCIP interns Eva and Yuke, who interned at Jamaica YMCA this summer, met with Deloitte volunteers for their Impact Day of Service at Jamaica's transitional housing residences. Impact Day is a Deloitte initiative featuring professional engagement in over 1,200 projects across 10 US cities. Eva and Yuke, currently studying in Macau, are attending a J-1 internship through FUSIA's CCIP NYC Internship Program.

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CCIP interns Bruce, Evelyn, and Alina enjoyed a delightful dinner with former CEO Mark Ricca. They had an incredible opportunity to learn from his extensive experiences in banking and finance. Mark shared invaluable insights about the industry's challenges and successes, giving the interns a deeper understanding of financial strategies and leadership. They also discussed career development, networking, and the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing financial landscape. It was an enriching evening filled with learning and inspiration.

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CCIP J-1 interns Jordan, Evelyn, and Audrey visited the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) with fellow exchange visitors, where they experienced firsthand the transformative power of art. The iconic institution's thought-provoking pieces, ranging from the vibrant colors of Pop Art to the abstract forms of Expressionism, sparked engaging discussions among the group about the artists' backgrounds, influences, and the social and historical contexts of their work. This deeper exploration allowed them to appreciate not just the aesthetics, but also the deeper meanings and stories behind the artworks, fostering a greater appreciation for the power of art to evoke emotions, challenge assumptions, and offer unique perspectives on the world.

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Sirui spent a day exploring Midtown and Downtown, starting with a magical visit to the Harry Potter store, where she immersed herself in enchanting memorabilia and interactive activities. She then headed to the New York Stock Exchange, where a brief tour gave her a fascinating glimpse into the world of finance. Next, she marveled at the panoramic city views from the Summit Lookout, capturing stunning photos of the skyline. Finally, she wandered through various small shops, each offering unique local crafts and trendy fashion, making for a delightful and memorable shopping experience.

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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 the 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 CCIP winter program, where he gained valuable insights into legislative operations and constituent services.

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The 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 the 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 the 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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