The Center for Global Engagement’s English Language Institute at the College of Staten Island proudly partnered with the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) to host an enriching career exploration experience for visiting scholars from Chuo University. Chuo University is a longstanding exchange partner with CSI, hosting CSI students in Japan while sending its own students to enrich CSI’s summer campus community. Each summer, Chuo students participate in and lead CLUE events that foster cross-cultural understanding across campus. This latest collaboration—made possible through CSI’s new association with JCCI, which includes major corporate members like Mitsubishi Corporation—highlighted the value of international engagement and career mentorship for global scholars.
The event began at JCCI Headquarters in Manhattan, where David Ernst, Senior Consultant at JCCI, welcomed the group alongside Vice President Masaaki Maeda, whose efforts were instrumental in bringing the partners together. Students received a warm greeting from Christian Perticone, Director of the English Language Institute, and enjoyed a detailed presentation on JCCI’s mission by Membership Coordinator Takashi Inoue. In his remarks, Inoue emphasized JCCI’s evolving mission to support strong business relationships between the Japanese and American communities in New York, close cultural gaps that might hinder economic cooperation, encourage its members to embrace social responsibility, and promote friendship and cooperation between the U.S. and Japan. A featured talk by Matt D’Aquila, Senior Consultant at ABeam Consulting, provided in-depth insights into early career pathways in Japanese-American international business. Matt’s thoughtful engagement and tailored advice resonated deeply with the students’ career aspirations.
Following the session, students traveled to the Mitsubishi Corporation’s U.S. Headquarters in Times Square, where they were welcomed by the Chief Human Resources Officer and Mr. Masayuki Tsuruga, General Manager. A presentation on Mitsubishi’s operations in the Americas was followed by breakout discussions with three young expatriate employees, offering personal perspectives on working across cultures. Students enjoyed a tour of the office and a networking lunch, where they explored future career possibilities with Mitsubishi HR representatives. “Everyone took a personal interest in the students and CSI’s responsibility for them. They did as much as they could have for us,” said Christian Perticone. David Ernst added, “I felt both morning and afternoon programs were meaningful to the students, inspirational and full of solid information for their careers. I look forward to continuing to develop the relationship between the College and JCCI.” The Center for Global Engagement thanks VP Masaaki Maeda for his leadership and vision, and extends special appreciation to Matt D’Aquila for delivering such a meaningful, student-focused presentation.
