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."