CCIP Self-Placed Internships

Exchange visitor Pranav, alongside with a group of friends, embarked on an unforgettable snowboarding adventure at Lake Tahoe. The pristine slopes of Lake Tahoe provided the perfect playground for Pranav and his friends to indulge in their shared passion for snowboarding, creating lifelong memories and embracing the thrill of gliding down the snow-covered mountains. The snowboarding adventure at Lake Tahoe exemplifies the spirit of adventure, friendship, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors that Pranav and his friends hold dear. It showcases the transformative power of shared experiences regardless of culture and highlights the incredible bonds that can be formed through a mutual love for adventure sports.

J-1 intern Aditya had the incredible opportunity to partake in the exuberant Independence Day festivities of The United States of America in the iconic city of New York. More commonly referred to as "The 4th of July," this auspicious day marks the commemoration of America's liberation from colonial occupants and is celebrated with boundless joy and patriotism.

Gia and Reece (CCIP NYC participants) as well as Xin Kai, Derreck, and Pranav (FUSIA self-placed interns) are all from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, interning in the US with their J-1 internship program sponsored by FUSIA. They joined together in NYC and visited the iconic neighborhood of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), which offers a magnificent view of the arches of the Manhattan Bridge, located on the Brooklyn side of New York City.

J-1 intern Ankish embarked on a magical journey to witness the captivating Providence WaterFire, an awe-inspiring event centered around the enchanting display of bonfires on the convergence of three rivers in downtown Providence - the Woonasquatucket, Moshassuck, and Providence Rivers. Accompanied by friends and family, Ankish had a truly memorable and heartwarming experience.

J-1 intern Ankish traveled to Boston, Massachusetts, to celebrate their sister's graduation from Boston University. This joyous occasion brought together the spirit of academic achievement and the cherished bond of family, making it a moment of great pride and celebration for everyone involved.

Safacan, an exchange visitor hailing from Singapore, embarked on an awe-inspiring journey to Yosemite National Park. This remarkable adventure took Safacan on a 6.5-mile hike across the magnificent Nevada Fall and Ribbon Fall. Along the way, Safacan had the pleasure of meeting incredible individuals who provided great company and camaraderie during the hike. As someone from a small country, the visit to a vast national park like Yosemite was a first for Safacan, resulting in a memorable experience filled with wonder and appreciation for the fascinating nature that the United States has to offer. Safacan documented the journey through numerous photographs, capturing the essence of this remarkable expedition and cherishing the unique memories made amidst the captivating landscapes of Yosemite National Park.

Crystal, an exchange visitor, recently enjoyed an enriching dinner with her Japanese colleagues and National University of Singapore (NUS) NOC students in the Bay Area. The gathering provided a platform for engaging conversations, where Crystal had the opportunity to learn about her colleagues' internship experiences and exchange cultural insights. The evening was marked by a vibrant exchange of knowledge and experiences, as Crystal shared her understanding of Japanese culture while also learning from her Japanese colleagues and her housemate from the Philippines.

Crystal, an exchange visitor, attended the WomenInTech event organized by Singapore Global Network and pebblebed in San Francisco. The event provided Crystal with a unique opportunity to hear the entrepreneurial journeys of inspiring women, including Ai-hui, a two-time founder who currently leads an impact VC firm. Engaging in small group discussions, Crystal gained valuable insights on startup management and had the privilege of learning from Ai-hui's experiences as a first-generation immigrant entrepreneur. The event served as a catalyst for knowledge exchange and empowered Crystal with practical wisdom for running a startup.

Exchange interns Darren and Xin Kai joined their colleagues from Multitude Insights to witness the parade. The event provided them with valuable insights into the cultural celebrations that Massachusetts residents actively engage in. Darren and Xin Kai's presence at the parade highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and the power of shared experiences in fostering understanding among different communities. Their participation served as a bridge between cultures, enhancing their appreciation for Irish heritage and strengthening bonds with their Multitude Insights colleagues.

Accompanied by newfound American friends from Houston, Aditya delved into the heart of rodeo culture, witnessing firsthand the intricacies and excitement of the various events. The astounding display of bull riding and cattle herding showcased the profound connection between the people and the land, highlighting the enduring spirit of the American south.

Safacan, joined by Singaporeans working in other states and participating in university exchange programs, embarked on an exciting journey to the dynamic college town of Madison, Wisconsin. The group fully immersed themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, engaging with local students from the University of Madison and partaking in cultural activities that resonated with young adults. This enriching experience offered Safacan and their companions a unique glimpse into college life, forging profound connections with fellow Singaporeans and creating cherished memories that will endure a lifetime.

Exchange visitor Jacob had the thrilling opportunity to go sailing around the bay and under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Joining a group of fellow interns on a sunny Saturday afternoon, Jacob embraced the chance to explore the area from a unique perspective. The highlight of the trip came when they sailed directly under the Golden Gate Bridge, leaving Jacob in awe of its architectural brilliance. This unforgettable experience not only provided breathtaking scenery but also fostered bonds among the interns and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of San Francisco Bay.

Exchange visitor Pranav embarked on an unforgettable road trip to the Grand Canyon, accompanied by a group of friends. The scenic drive and breathtaking landscapes provided a backdrop for cherished memories and lifelong bonds. Exploring the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon, Pranav and friends hiked along stunning trails, capturing awe-inspiring moments through photography and marveling at the natural wonder before them. This road trip exemplifies the transformative power of travel and the profound connections forged through shared adventures, serving as a testament to Pranav's spirit of exploration and the incredible beauty that awaits those who seek it.

Evan, an exchange visitor, went on a captivating trip to New York. One of the main highlights of the journey was a visit to the renowned Empire State Building, which left Evan in awe. From the observatory deck, Evan enjoyed breathtaking views of the city skyline and learned fascinating facts about the landmark's history and architectural significance. The Empire State Building stands as a remarkable tribute to the 20th century, representing modern technology and innovation at its finest.

Participant An Lyn attended the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans, Louisiana on February 21st, 2022. The event, which is known for its colorful parades, lively music, and festive atmosphere, is a cultural phenomenon that draws people from all over the world. An Lyn was excited to experience the unique traditions of Mardi Gras firsthand and immerse herself in the vibrant energy of the city. With her camera in hand, she captured the stunning sights and sounds of the event, from the elaborate floats to the flamboyant costumes. As An Lyn put it, “Mardi Gras is a one-of-a-kind celebration that truly captures the spirit of New Orleans. It was an unforgettable experience that I will always cherish.”

Pratul, an exchange intern at InchFab, attended the SPIE Photonics West conference alongside their supervisors. The visit to San Francisco revolved around exploring the exhibition booths, seeking potential part suppliers and partners for InchFab. During the conference, Pratul had the opportunity to reconnect with a former university colleague from Singapore who had also presented a research paper at the event. Following the conference, Pratul ventured into San Francisco, exploring the city and enjoying a delightful lunch at a nearby pizza place known for its authentic Detroit style deep dish pizza.

Exchange visitor Safacan embarked on an enthralling road trip across California, exploring major tourist attractions in Los Angeles and San Diego. The journey allowed Safacan to immerse himself in the vibrant culture and iconic landmarks of Los Angeles, including the renowned Hollywood sign and Walk of Fame. Venturing south to San Diego, Safacan marveled at the picturesque landscapes, exquisite architecture of Balboa Park, and the lively Gaslamp Quarter. Safacan considers this road trip to be a highlight of his exchange program in the USA, showcasing the allure and diversity of California as an inspiration for fellow travelers.

Our CCIP and J-1 interns across the nation had the opportunity of embarking on two remarkable activities during their time in Washington, D.C. The visits to the US Capitol and the Department of the Interior provided unique insights into the pillars of American democracy and the nation's dedication to preserving its natural treasures.

Pratul, an exchange visitor with a passion for entrepreneurship and innovation, had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant start-up community at Stanford University. Their visit revolved around attending a renowned start-up incubator and venture capital fundraising event, offering valuable insights into groundbreaking ideas and potential investment prospects.

During their visit, Pratul had the privilege of witnessing numerous start-ups pitch their revolutionary concepts to potential investors. The event showcased the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit that thrives.

Exchange visitor Pranav, alongside with a group of friends, embarked on an unforgettable snowboarding adventure at Lake Tahoe. The pristine slopes of Lake Tahoe provided the perfect playground for Pranav and his friends to indulge in their shared passion for snowboarding, creating lifelong memories and embracing the thrill of gliding down the snow-covered mountains. The snowboarding adventure at Lake Tahoe exemplifies the spirit of adventure, friendship, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors that Pranav and his friends hold dear. It showcases the transformative power of shared experiences regardless of culture and highlights the incredible bonds that can be formed through a mutual love for adventure sports.

Participant Jimmy recently visited California and had an unforgettable experience exploring the Golden State. During his trip, he had the opportunity to visit some of the state’s most iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Disneyland. Jimmy also indulged in California’s famous cuisine, savoring fresh seafood in San Francisco and authentic Mexican food in Los Angeles. Overall, his trip to California was an exciting and enriching experience, filled with stunning sights, delicious food, and unforgettable memories.