The U.S. Department of State recently initiated the Cultural Enrichment Pilot Project, which enables the Department to successfully fulfill its mission to foster mutual understanding between Americans and citizens of other countries.
Last fall, J-1 participants in Florida were invited to attend the International Exchange Summit (I.E. Summit), an event organized in collaboration by the Department of State, The International Student Company, and Florida International University.
It was a day filled with networking activities, keynote speakers by leaders across industries, followed by an American College Football Game between FIU Panthers vs. Tulane Greenwave. The event was held on the Florida International University campus and was attended by several of Spirit’s Internship participants.
Glaiza S. is a participant from the Philippines who attended the summit. Read on to hear about her experience!
"Participating in the International Exchange Summit was an opportunity for me and my co-interns to be more exposed to the diverse world of cultural exchange. To some it was their first time in the USA, but as a former J1, this summit was very educational and inspiring for us as participants. We got to hear and witness how life in the US can be with the help of the speakers who shared their knowledge and input about how to cope with our new environment.
I learned a lot from the speakers. Mr. Jerome Costa, who is a Finance Manager shared with us how to budget and how it will affect us in the future. Ms. Kristin Sheffer, an author and a personal development coach talked to us about how to create a joyful and purposeful life by blending conceptual thoughts and practical wisdom.
Coming from different countries, this summit was a bridge to connect with other J1 participants whom we didn’t know before. Meeting people from different nationalities, exchanging cultures and networking through experiences were fun and interesting parts of the summit event.
A bonus for us was attending the football game at FIU, witnessing the game between FIU Panthers and Tulane Greenwave. It was fun cheering during game! Overall, the entire experience will always be remembered and cherished."
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