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."