I - WORLD Winter 2017
Newsletter for Alumni and Friends of International House Philadelphia
International House Philadelphia
ta b l e o f contents 1
Letter from the editor
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IHP ALUMNI SHARE A SPECIAL CHEMISTRY
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Welcome Week 2016
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Meet IHP’s Resident Advisors
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Program Highlights
Dear IHP Alumni,
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RESIDENT PROFILE: Miriam Souali
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Christopher Hearsey
I would like to welcome you all to this latest issue of I-World. I hope everyone is doing fine.
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Class Notes
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How you can Support IHP
I-World Editorial Staff Founding Editor Fatih Akay IHP alumnus (Turkey, 2000s) Editor
Shekeya Watkins Alumni Relations Manager
Senior Writer
Matthew Doherty Director of Communications and Marketing
Graphic Designer Julio Perez Jr. Photographers Rachael Moton Julio Perez Jr.
In order to refresh my memory, I’ve just gone through the past electronic versions of I-World, which I still keep on my computer. I was shocked by the fact that the story of I-World started more than 10 years ago. Time really flies! The first issue of I-World was published in August 2006. I still recall my e-mail conversations with Olga Fedorov, who was a Development Associate at International House Philadelphia at the time, regarding how we could initiate and improve alumni relations. I believe the publication of I-World has served as a great tool for this purpose. I strongly think that IHP gave us so much during our years as residents, especially in terms of the opportunities that it provided. Therefore, I feel it is important to keep our connection with IHP, and with each other, even after leaving it. As 2017 gets underway, I would like to suggest that each of us do more than read I-World, that we each contribute to IHP as much as possible. Your contribution may include doing simple things, such as writing an article for I-World and visiting International House, or you can become more deeply involved by donating funds to support IHP, attending local and worldwide alumni events, mentoring residents and sharing your knowledge and experiences with them through talks or lectures. To make a long story shorter, simply connect with IHP and stay involved! Before closing my message, I would like to thank Shekeya Watkins for all of her hard work in managing alumni relations at IHP. I hope everyone enjoys reading this issue of I-World, and that you have a Happy and Healthy New Year! Best regards from Turkey, M. Fatih Akay (Turkey, 2001-2005)
Cover Photo: 2016 Holiday Party
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International House Philadelphia
Margot Rowley, Chuck Gupta and Felipe Cesar Sousa e Silva
IHP ALUMNI SHARE A SPECIAL CHEMISTRY When Chandrakant “Chuck” Gupta (India, 19 50s) arrived in the United States in 1956 to pursue a Master’s degree in organic chemistry at Temple University and serve as a graduate assistant at the school, he was a 24-year-old student from India with big dreams and just $100 in his pocket. After Chuck found housing in West Philadelphia, he soon discovered International House Philadelphia, which was located at 3905 Spruce Street in those days. “A membership at International House Philadelphia cost only $5 a year so I went there often for social reasons,” he recalled. “They had open houses, lectures, dances and music, and my Indian friends all gathered and networked at International House.” Chuck, who had been planning to return to his homeland after graduating from Temple in June 1958, says his life and career path took an unexpected turn after he met Giles Zimmerman at International House Philadelphia, where Giles served as executive director. Giles told me, “You’ve got to stay in this country,” then I said, “Find me a job.” In no time at all, Giles helped Chuck get an interview with a company in South Philadelphia, where he was hired as a research chemist a week before he graduated. Chuck has never forgotten the positive impact that Giles and International House Philadelphia had on his life. In the decades that followed, Chuck became an ardent supporter of International House as he branched out from chemistry to become an entrepreneur and build his successful import-export business in the Philadelphia area. In 2014, Chuck’s enduring connection with International House Philadelphia and its mission to assist international students that are new to America came full circle when he became a mentor to Felipe Cesar Sousa é Silva (Brazil, 2010s). Felipe had been living at International House since 2013 while completing his studies in chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania.
They were brought together by Clara Fomich, IHP’s Executive Assistant and Office Manager, after she learned that Felipe planned to return to Brazil after graduation. “Clara called me and said there was a person that wanted to meet me. It was Chuck Gupta,” said Felipe, who agreed to meet Chuck at International House’s annual Holiday Party. Then, Chuck invited Felipe to a luncheon at Temple, where he also took him on a campus tour and introduced him to professors and researchers at the College of Science & Technology. With Chuck’s continued guidance and support, Felipe later enrolled at Temple, where he is pursuing his PhD in Organic Chemistry and working as a teaching assistant after receiving a scholarship. “I wondered why Chuck would do that for me and why he would want to meet me,” Felipe said. “Chuck mentioned that his experience was similar to mine when he came to Philadelphia and that he felt he should help me.” Felipe, who now lives on campus at Temple, says Chuck has become more than a mentor to him. Their common bond with International House Philadelphia led to a close friendship they could never have imagined when they came to America decades apart. “Chuck is kind of like my dad here is America, and he’s really become a supportive mentor and a special friend. We talk about everything, from politics to chemistry, and he introduces me to many people in my field, and to people that can inspire me,” Felipe said. “Knowing Chuck has impacted my life in so many positive ways. It’s incredible. If not for International House, we never would have met.” Chuck, who is happily retired and resides in the Philadelphia area with his wife, Margot Rowley, said helping Felipe was simply the natural thing to do. Felipe, 27, said he plans to follow this advice from Chuck, who said: “In the future, help someone the way I helped you.”
International House Philadelphia
Candle Lighting Ceremony Dinner
W e l c o m e W e e k 2 01 6 For new residents of International House Philadelphia, September is an exciting time marked by the start of the fall semester at local universities, and Welcome Week, a series of programs that introduce our students and scholars to their new home and to fellow residents from around the world. Welcome Week 2016 offered many cultural and Resident Life activities, including: a Resident Appreciation Breakfast, a University City walking tour, a German Oktoberfest celebration that was also open to the public, Tastes of I-House, an event that gave
residents the chance to prepare and share foods from their cultures and countries, a Friday night dance party, a concert by the West Philadelphia Orchestra and Saturday at the Movies, which showcased our enduring commitment to international cinema. For many residents, the most memorable and meaningful highlight of Welcome Week was the annual Candle Lighting Dinner Ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2016, which was sponsored by Wells Fargo and held in the Ibrahim Theater. During the ceremony, more than 100 residents of many different nationalities held glowing candles while reciting the International House pledge:
“As light begets light, so love friendship and goodwill are passed from one another. We, who have come from many nations to live in one fellowship at International House, promise one another to pass the light wherever we go.� The pledge was recited in more than 10 languages, including English, as the Candle Lighting Ceremony signaled the start of a period of living together and sharing experiences and knowledge with new friends from around the world. The moving ceremony included an international buffet dinner as well as several speakers who welcomed residents to International House, including alumnus and Board Chair Ludo Scheffer (The Netherlands, 19 80s).
Tastes of IHP
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M e e t I H P ’s R e s i d e n t A dv i s o r s International House Philadelphia has recruited and trained an outstanding team of Resident Advisors for the 20162017 year. The RAs have many responsibilities, including developing programs for fellow residents and helping them adjust to life in Philadelphia. They work under the direction of Deborah Houda, Associate Director of Resident Life. Belen Quereda Bernabeu Age: 31 Country: Spain University: Thomas Jefferson University Field of study: Medicine House: B House I became a Resident Advisor because I wanted to help other residents feel at home. I chose to live at International House because I enjoy the multicultural environment and the variety of cultural events that we can attend here. I hope to become a pathologist. I enjoy reading, singing, playing the guitar, visiting places and chilling with friends, when I’m not studying or working. My favorite food or cuisine is Indian, although I still have to try many others! One of the things I plan to do to promote international understanding is to get familiar with the different cultures of IHP and encourage residents to attend cultural events where they can learn about traditions and rituals in other societies and their meaning. People may be surprised to learn that I never considered leaving my country until I was almost 30.
Gilberto A. Vilá Arroyo Age: 21 Country: United States (Puerto Rico) University: Temple University Field of study: Podiatric Medicine House: C House I became a Resident Advisor because I want to gain leadership experience from providing people with the help they require and to support international exchange through cultural events. I chose to live at International House because I’m attracted to the idea of having students from around the globe live together to interact and share all aspects of their people’s culture. I hope to become a podiatric physician and surgeon. I aspire to return to Puerto Rico and work alongside my uncle in his clinic. When I’m not busy with either studying or working, I enjoy biking along Kelly Drive or just watching films and series. It’s hard to choose which my favorite cuisine is because I essentially enjoy them all, but one of my favorites is Arab. I believe the best way to promote international understanding is through eating together, either in big cultural events or small familial gatherings. I hope to do both so that we may all understand each other better. People may be surprised to learn that I visited Japan only to see my friends, who I met in International House. If I’d never met them I would’ve never even thought about going.
International House Philadelphia
Tamara Galoyan Age: 31 Country: Armenia University: Drexel University Field of study: PhD in Educational Leadership and Learning Technologies House: A House I became a Resident Advisor because I enjoy using my knowledge and skills to the benefit of people. I chose to live at International House because it offers a warm and welcoming environment to its residents. I hope to become a researcher/educator who always seeks for creative and novel solutions to the issues faced by the current educational system. I enjoy listening to music, reading, and socializing with people when I’m not studying or working. My favorite food is cheese, with a good red wine. One of the things I plan to do to promote international understanding is to enhance awareness and tolerance of cultural, racial, religious, and other types of diversities that exist among people. People may be surprised to learn that despite being very outgoing and friendly, I prefer to work and study alone in a peaceful and very quiet environment. Adit Gupta Age: 18 Country: United States University: Drexel University Field of study: Software Engineering and Mathematics House: G House I became a Resident Advisor because I love meeting new people, helping and teaching people and providing valuable input for those who are new to this country. I chose to live at International House because of the most diverse crowd of amazing people in all of Pennsylvania! I hope to become a successful software engineer and transition into a managerial position. I enjoy playing tennis, reading, and learning about new technologies when I’m not studying or working. My favorite foods or cuisine are Chinese, Indian and Italian food! One of the things I plan to do to promote international understanding is to help organize many diverse cultural shows and promote learning of different parts of the world. People may be surprised to learn that I enjoy cooking and can make almost anything as long as I see a recipe.
Mohamed Ben Halim Age: 28 Country: Libya University: Drexel University Field of study: Economics House: D House
I became a Resident Advisor because I really like being helpful and using my expertise in making people’s lives in Philadelphia easier and more enjoyable. I chose to live at International House because it offers an amazing mix of cultures and personalities from all around the world that lead to great friendships. I hope to become a person that makes a positive impact in the quality of people’s lives through public policy, economic analysis and information technology. I enjoy video games and intellectual discussions when I’m not studying or working. My favorite foods or cuisine are Italian and my mother’s. One of the things I plan to do to promote international understanding is to listen, understand, and exchange points of view in a peaceful understanding environment. People may be surprised to learn that I enjoy the ballet and classical music. Burcu Tezcan Age: 30 Country: Turkey University: Drexel University Field of study: Environmental Engineering House: J House and Apts. I became a Resident Advisor because my aim is to encourage understanding, respect and cooperation among the diverse residents of IHP. I like to deliver warm, welcoming and friendly help to residents in their experiences in the United States. I chose to live at International House because I like diversity. Living here gives me the opportunity to interact with people that come from different backgrounds, different countries and different cultures. I hope to become a professional engineer to contribute to global environmental issues. I enjoy walking around University City and taking pictures when I’m not studying or working. My favorite cuisine is Mediterranean. One of the things I plan to do to promote international understanding is to encourage the concept that all humans are created equal. People may be surprised to learn that I wanted to be an actress when I was young.
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Anna Monastero Age: 20 Country: China University: Drexel University Field of study: Environmental Studies with a minor in Spanish House: F House I became a Resident Advisor because I want to be a source of support and leadership to residents. I hope to help make residents’ transition to Philadelphia enjoyable, and overall I hope to play a positive role in their life at International House. I chose to live at International House because I love the diverse and inclusive environment it presents. I wanted to live in a place where I could actually connect with the people around me in a meaningful way. After living here for a month, I can attest that the International House is a cultural community that feels like home. I hope to become a sustainability consultant someday. There is so much I would love to do to further our protection and understanding of the environment, so any worthwhile career pertaining to environmental protection would be amazing. I enjoy being outdoors when I’m not studying or working. I’m happiest when I’m doing something active and surrounded by nature. My favorite food or cuisine is anything vegetarian! Even better if it’s vegan. One of the things I plan to do to promote international understanding is to try to break down the cultural barriers and stereotypes that have been set in place. I think the best way to promote international understanding is to meet people of all countries and cultures with an open mind. When you do this, you begin to realize that our shared values and beliefs are far more important than our differences. People may be surprised to learn that I ran in the Penn Relays for my high school. Jingyi Sun Age: 25 Country: China University: University of Pennsylvania Field of study: Architecture House: E House I became a Resident Advisor because I like to help residents, and pass my passion and love to everyone. I chose to live at International House because it is a big warm family and accepts diverse cultures. I hope to become an architect. I enjoy doing exercise when I’m not studying or working. My favorite food or cuisine is dumplings. One of the things I plan to do to promote international understanding is to make a cultural series that lets people know deeper cultures from different regions. People may be surprised to learn that I am afraid of ants.
Emily K. Zanker Age: 21 Country: United States University: University of Pennsylvania Field of Study: Cognitive Science, Linguistics Concentration House: H House I became a Resident Advisor because I want to play a crucial role in bringing an international community closer and to be at the forefront of promoting and participating in cultural events. I enjoy providing support for my peers as well as having the opportunity to bring ideas to life. I chose to live at International House because I want to live in a diverse setting, and get out of my comfort zone. I have lived in Philadelphia all my life, and becoming an IHP resident is the first step towards exploring the world simply by meeting people with diverse experiences. I love the mission of IHP and feel as though the goals for my own life are aligned with the role IHP plays. I hope to become a person who loves her job. As of now I am exploring international career options. I am interested in Experimental Semiotics Research, becoming an Aviation Officer in a branch of the U.S. military, and working in Linguistic Data analysis. No matter what my career is, I hope to continue acting as a mediator and resource for a wide variety of people. I enjoy learning languages, exercising, cooking, hiking, reading, drawing, painting and creating jewelry when I’m not studying or working. My favorite food or cuisine is hard to capture. I like a lot of food. The first things that come to mind however are sushi and steak. German Christmas cookies and pumpkin pie are also amazing. And cherries are my favorite fruit. One of the things I plan to do to promote international understanding is to encourage open dialogue between residents and kickstart these events with internationally popular themes, such as TV shows, food, and music. International understanding requires an open mind and a willingness to learn; I hope to lead by being a good model of those ideals during all events, both formal and informal. People may be surprised to learn that I really like stollen, a type of German fruitcake, despite the fact that I am allergic to gluten. Also, I am currently learning Russian and I have a History minor.
International House Philadelphia
Diwali Festival of Lights
Thanksgiving Feast
Program Highlights Arts, culture, educational and residential experiences abound at International House Philadelphia. In the second half of 2016, I-House residents came together for social hours, a Thanksgiving Feast, and the annual Holiday Party in December 2016, where Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa were all recognized. They also participated in “Voices of the House” programs in October and November 2016 that provided forums to share their views and feelings about America’s presidential election. Residents joined members of the Philadelphia community for International House Philadelphia’s annual Diwali Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2016, where everyone celebrated the Festival of Lights and the culture of India with authentic cuisine, music and dance performances, and the lighting of sparklers.
Holiday Party
Many residents and community members enrolled in IHP’s English and Foreign Language program during the Fall 2016 semester. International House Philadelphia alumni and members receive a 10% discount when enrolling in our language program. To learn more, visit: www.ihousephilly.org/classes. Highlights in IHP’s renowned Cinema program included This is Now: Film and Video After Punk, a touring program in August 2016 that showcased underground films from the post-punk era in the UK; the Imagine Science Film Festival Touring Program in September 2016; and a retrospective of works by French filmmakers Jean-Marie Straub and Danielle Huillet. International House Philadelphia also hosted screenings by the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival and the Philadelphia Jewish Film Festival. For information on upcoming programs, visit www.ihousephilly/calendar.
This is Now: Film and Video After Punk
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R ES I DENT P R OF I LE : M A R I A M SO U AL I IHP 2016-Present, Morocco and art theory. In particular, my aim is to benefit from this new intellectual and scientific environment to learn more about the advancement of both the practice and theory of contemporary art. I also want to comprehend the role of women in art. From the start, I knew that being in Philadelphia would be a very rewarding cultural and artistic experience for me. My expectation wasn’t wrong at all. I can feel culture and science in the air of this wonderful city, since universities, academies, colleges, museums and many art venues constitute very important components of the urban structure here. What is fascinating about International House is that we can taste, so to speak, the effervescent cultural environment of Philadelphia, since we enjoy having access to a diversified cultural calendar and getting easily connected to events inside and outside International House. When growing up, were you always interested in art?
I am from Morocco. I was born in 1989 in Targuist, a village in the Rif Mountains. When I’m not in Philadelphia, I usually live and work in Tetouan.
Yes, indeed. I’ve loved art since my early childhood, even before knowing its name. I enjoyed drawing and painting every day and everywhere, which really hasn’t changed for me. The only difference is that today, I am being influenced by my art practice and academic theoretical thought about art, art history and literature. When you’re an artist and studying art, all of your senses are alive.
What was it like growing up in Morocco?
Tell me about your experience at International House.
The main thing I learned is to try to find a balance between conserving heritage and tradition and being open on the universality of a global world. I also learned to comprehend the very meaning of diversity, a salient feature characterizing Morocco, which can be observed at such different levels as geography, society, language, and culture. Thanks to that, I learned to be flexible and tolerant. I grew up in a country where people from different ancient origins (Arab, Asian, African, Tamazight, etc.) have melted together to form a coherent society, known for its tolerance and acceptance of others.
I’ve learned about different cultures in a short period of time. I have had the pleasure of exchanging ideas with peers coming from different cultures and studying in different fields. International House Philadelphia offers a very enriching, kaleidoscopic cultural environment. I’ve attended many enjoyable and interesting social, artistic and cultural events, from which I have learned a lot about American culture in general and the local culture of Philadelphia in particular. From this great experience, I am also learning to celebrate the ideal of international mutual understanding.
Tell us about your academic background and studies.
What are your plans after you complete your education and leave International House?
Where are you from originally?
I studied at the National Institute of Fine Arts in Tetouan, before continuing my French literature and History of Art studies and research at Mohamed V University in Rabat and then at Abdelmalek Essaâdi University in Tetouan, where I obtained a Master’s degree in comparative literature. Currently, I am conducting my doctoral research at Abdelmalek Essaâdi University (Department of French Studies) and Bryn Mawr College (Department of Art History), thanks to a Fulbright Scholarship that was awarded to me. What brought you to Philadelphia and International House? I came to Philadelphia as a Fulbright exchange PhD student to enlarge and deepen my knowledge in the fields of art history
After completing my doctoral studies, my aim is to partake in the field of art in Morocco, especially in current advancements in art studies in general and art history in particular. I hope that my dissertation will fit with the aspirations of Moroccan artists and art researchers and help expand their international perspectives. How do you like to spend your free time? I usually paint or draw. But I also enjoy cooking with other roommates in our wonderful suite kitchen! Every day, I go for a walk in the beautiful neighborhood of International House. I also love the panoramic view of Philadelphia that I have from the big window of my room at International House and enjoy its daily variations.
International House Philadelphia
AL U M N I S P OTL I G H T: CHRISTOPHER HEARSEY IHP 2002-2005, United States
What did you learn here? I learned that any resident who takes the time to be a part of the IHP community learns two valuable lessons: leadership and the art of diplomacy. These are extremely important skills to develop no matter what one does in their career. Learning these skills is just as important when living with a group of people in a suite as it is working with a group of people in your professional life. Cooperation tends to be a better strategy than conflict and isolation. What is your fondest memory of living at IHP? My fondest memory would probably be resident parties. Whether the party took place in the IHP basement, in a suite, or in the theater, it was always a great time. Tell us about your career path, and your current role at Bigelow Aerospace.
Where are you from originally? I am from the Los Angeles, California area originally. I grew up in different parts of California: Canoga Park, Morro Bay, Pasadena, and La Crescenta. What brought you to Philadelphia and International House? In January 2002, I transferred from the University of Alaska, Fairbanks to Temple University to study Mathematical Physics. Luckily, I found International House Philadelphia. I was very fortunate to find such a welcoming and eclectic place to live. How did living at IHP impact your life? International House Philadelphia had a tremendous impact on my life. What I have always appreciated about IHP is that it enables a rich confluence of cultures and personalities that helps inform residents of the real world problems, both foreign and domestic, within and without IHP’s front doors by virtue of living together under one roof. Living with persons of so many backgrounds, experiences, and levels of education was stimulating and fun. When I was a resident, it was intellectually inspiring to live with so many residents of varying backgrounds. I don’t think I would be the person I am today if I hadn’t taken the time to understand and engage my fellow residents on the topics of the day, whether concerning economics, the Iraq War, or general gossip.
I started working for Bigelow Aerospace right out of law school in 2013. My current title is Director of Legislative Affairs, which essentially means that I’m the chief lobbyist for the company in Washington, D.C. I spend a lot of time talking and working with Members of Congress and their staff, executive branch officials, and counterparts at other commercial space companies, about space policy and legislation, among other things. Prior to my current position, I served as Corporate Counsel for Bigelow. My path to Bigelow reflects a multidisciplinary background that I developed over the years. After graduating in 2006 from Temple University with a BA degree in Mathematical Economics and Political Science, I moved to Washington to complete a MS degree in Legal Theory at American University. While in D.C., I worked for Senator Dianne Feinstein, was appointed to a graduate fellowship in space history at the National Air & Space Museum, and worked at the U.S. Department of State in the Office of Space and Advanced Technology. I also earned a MS degree in Space Studies from the University of North Dakota and completed a JD degree specializing in air and space law from the University of Mississippi. What is international space law and why did you gravitate to this field? Space law and policy is generally divided between national and international law and policy. The Outer Space Treaty of 1967 establishes the basic international legal principles for exploration and utilization of outer space for states that engage in space activities, which include, among others, freedoms to explore and use outer space for peaceful purposes and the prohibition on national appropriation of celestial bodies like the Moon and Mars. There are several additional treaties and international policy statements that expand on the obligations and freedoms of states to engage in space activities.
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On the other hand, national space law and policy are things states create for themselves and their nationals. Generally, states divide their regulation of space issues across civil, commercial, and military sectors. I gravitated towards space law and policy in my senior year at Temple University, when I took a privatization economics course. At the time, the U.S. Congress had recently adopted a new law that created a legal system for commercial human spaceflight called the Commercial Space Launch Amendments Act of 2004. I ended up where I am because I wanted to bridge my interest and knowledge of science and law and found a great medium with the outer space environment. Being a part of a community that is trying to develop the technology to position humans as a multi-planet species is very exciting. What can we expect to see in aerospace and space exploration and travel in the future? I would say that in the next 5 to 10 years we will see fundamental changes to the way people access space through reductions of economic, policy, and legal barriers to accessing space as well as the integration of different technologies into new products that will enable new, nontraditional types of space activities. Commercial space habitats will be ready by 2020, revolutionizing how people will live and work in space. Reusable rockets will dominate the launch market significantly reducing the cost of going to space. But we will also see force multiplying technologies like the proliferation of robotics and artificial intelligence to current space systems, which will enhance the degree to which space activities can be performed. I expect that NASA will go to Mars and everyone else will begin to build up the infrastructure and economies on the Moon and in cis-lunar space (the area between Earth and the Moon). So I can see short trips to low Earth orbit and the Moon for the average person, but I doubt the average person will be going to Mars before the 2030s, given the distance and planning required. If you had a chance to explore one planet, what would it be and why? I bought No Man’s Sky, a game similar to Minecraft, on Play Station 4 recently. No Man’s Sky is designed for exploration where you can warp from one star system to the next, collect resources, interact with other species, and walk, run, or fly on planets and moons within a galaxy so large that the odds of running into a another player are extremely low. But if I could do that in our Solar System, I would probably like to explore a planet in another Solar System or galaxy because I would like to be the first person ever to explore where I go.
What advice do you have for students as they pursue their career? No matter what you want to do in life, hang out with the people you want to be. When I was growing up in Los Angeles, many of my friends worked in the entertainment industry. They would always say, “If you want to be an actor, hang out with actors. If you want to be a director, hang out with directors.” No matter the profession you choose, you will spend the rest of your life working with the same cohort of people. But you can distinguish yourself and stay competitive for jobs by leveraging every opportunity you can handle. This includes, among other things, going to conferences, joining student and professional organizations affiliated with topics that interest you, and networking – building those relationships with people in your interest group because odds are that your colleagues will replace those who are your friends today. This may be the most direct way to gather information necessary for executing your job, but also if you want to leave your job someday to work for someone else in your chosen field. When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing? For almost 10 years, I have had season seats to the Washington Capitals. Hockey has always been in my life. So if I am not working, you can find me at a hockey game! If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be? If I could change one thing in the world, I would likely want to change how people participate in the democratic process, because the lack of knowledge about basic civics harms an entire political community when citizens cannot learn or obtain the information necessary to participate in policy and law making. Moreover, motivating citizens to vote is hard enough, but it is even more difficult to motivate someone to run for public office. I think reducing the barriers for the average person to run for any local, state, or federal office would be my goal. And I think information technology will soon provide a means for greater democratic participation.
International House Philadelphia
CLASS NOTES 1980 s
Judith McClure (United States) is living in Georgia and working as a regional director for Novartis Pharmaceuticals. Judith originally came to International House Philadelphia for a weekend stay but ended up staying longer. She has fond memories of her time at IHP. “I had just graduated from Kent State University in Ohio and had been hired by WTAF-TV in Philadelphia. My roommate from Kent State was attending the University of Pennsylvania and recommended that I stay at IHP while looking for an apartment. I then had the fortunate opportunity to meet the Director of I-House, Judy Wagner,” she said. After meeting with her, Judith was asked to stay at International House, where she made lifelong friends from all over the world that she has remained in touch with throughout the years. In fact, Judith and a couple of alumni recently got together for a mini-reunion in Austin, Texas. “Our comradery was just as special as in the past, and it was as if no time had passed,” she said. “The only thing I can say is that it is an honor to be able to call International House home.”
Odette Santiago-Elmer (Puerto Rico) began working as a corporate trainer and consultant implementing enterprise solutions after leaving International House Philadelphia. In 1992, she married David Elmer, whom she met when they were introduced by a mutual friend at IHP. Since then, Odette has traveled extensively, and continues to enjoy visiting many countries that were introduced to her by fellow IHP alumni. She and husband currently reside in Sanford, Florida.
1990 s Jenny Sethman (United States) graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1997 with a degree in Computer Science, and currently works as an IT staff member for the United Nations. She resides in New York City.
Nyles Gray (United States) is happy to report that he got married in March 2016. While vacationing in the Philippines, Nyles met his wife Mercedes and decided to stay and retire on the island. He admits that he still has some adjustments to make, like learning how to speak Tagalog, and dealing with typhoons instead of hurricanes during rainy season. “Other than that, I’m very happy living here and consider myself a Philly-pino,” he said.
IHP hosted a wine and cheese reception on September 2, 2016 to kick off a weekend of celebration for a group of alumni from the 1990s. A few alumni from this very close knit group traveled from different parts of the world to join friends in Philadelphia that they had not seen in decades. Meeting again at IHP for the first time in so many years brought back many joyous memories, strong emotions and wonderful stories. The group spent the evening reminiscing about their time at International House Philadelphia and catching up on life events.
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2000 s
Nana Sarpong AgyemangMensah (Ghana) is pleased to report that she is in her final year of medical school and completing a global health track at the University of Kentucky. While at IHP, Nana received the Davis Projects for Peace grant to organize a leadership and peace building workshop in Ghana. Nana is still committed to helping women locally and internationally. After medical school, she plans to specialize in women’s health. She will be completing her clinical rotation in Ethiopia this spring. Her long-term goals are to help women in developing countries improve their health outcomes. Hisanori Fujiwara (Japan) received his PhD from the University of Tokyo after completing his course work at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Hisanori is now a product planning manager at Daiichi Sankyo in Tokyo. He returns to Philadelphia almost once a year to keep in touch with his lifelong friends at International House Philadelphia. Hisanori visited IHP in September 2016. He said, “Living at I-House was really a life-changing experience. The diverse culture here enabled me to broaden my horizons.”
Timothy Francis McKenna (United States) has been working in the design industry since graduating in 2010. He currently works for Aspire Ventures, a venture capital fund in Lancaster, Pennsylvania that has a portfolio of impact industry ventures. In October 2016, Timothy was promoted to Creative Director at Aspire, where he leads a team of creative professionals in building new companies that will disrupt healthcare, finance, food, and artificial intelligence. At Aspire, Timothy is happy to report that he is working with the Hussian School of Art and International House Philadelphia alumnus Courtland Ellis. “He and I were inseparable during our time at IHP,” he shared. Timothy says he benefited from his time at IHP, learning professional skills, cultural awareness and the true meaning of friendship. “I learned so much from the other residents that it was almost like taking a backpacking trip across the globe without ever having to leave Philadelphia. I truly believe that IHP has helped shape my world view to see a positive future. Just because everyone is different, doesn’t mean you don’t have a lot in common,” he said. Kaiqin Zhang (China) is excited to share that she and five of her friends founded Handshake 302, an art organization in Baishizhou, Shenzhen, an urban village in China. Kiaqin is running the art organization, which she said “tries to bring people from inside and outside of the urban village to understand each other through art.” Kaiqin got married in 2011 after meeting her husband in Shenzhen.
2010 s
Fernando Atique (Brazil) is very busy working on his postdoctorate at New York University, and living at International House New York. In the last decade, Fernando has published numerous articles and written several books. Fernando plans to return to Brazil in December 2017 to resume his position as a professor of architectural history at Federal University of São Paulo. Amber Betances (United States) received her Bachelors of Science in Landscape Architecture from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and was recently accepted to its Master of Landscape Architecture program. Amber currently resides in Clifton, New Jersey with her family.
Calling ALL IHP alumni Couples Did you meet your significant other at IHP? If so, we want to spread the “love” and share your story with fellow IHP alumni. To have a brief synoposis of your love story featured in our next issue of I-World, contact Alumni Relations Manager Shekeya Watkins: (215) 895-6598 shekeyaw@ihphilly.org.
International House Philadelphia
Te-Chuan Chou (Taiwan) graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Master’s degree in engineering. Te-Chuan is currently working as a mechanical engineer for Foxconn’s California branch, where part of his role is to serve as “a bridge” between Asia and the United States. “I hope eventually that I can not only make this world a better place through engineering, but also try to eliminate the barriers and misunderstandings between countries,” he said. Te-Chuan still keeps in touch with other IHP alums. He credits his time at International House Philadelphia for inspiring and encouraging him to learn more about the world and other cultures. Samar Jha (India) is Director of Government and Public Affairs at The Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors. In 2016, he was featured in Billy Penn “Who’s Next Law: 18 young people changing the legal community in Philly.” Samar was also selected as a New Leaders Council Fellow, 2016 for the Philadelphia chapter. New Leaders Council works to recruit, train and promote the progressive political entrepreneurs of tomorrow — trendsetters, elected officials and civicallyengaged leaders in business and industry who will shape the future landscape. Its goal is to produce a growing corps of diverse and highly skilled new progressive leaders who rise to the top of their fields, working
together across sectors and in their local cities to build, expand and improve the progressive infrastructure necessary for strong democracy, social justice, and equal opportunity. He was also selected as the Marketing Chair for the Annual New Leaders Council Philadelphia Chapter Fundraiser. Samar says his fondest memories of International House Philadelphia are being a part its melting pot of cultures, and attending the different film festivals. Samar resides in Philadelphia with his wife.
Anna Fortune Katenta (United States) became the Coordinator of the Community Outreach and Engagement Core at the University of Pennsylvania’s Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology after graduating from the Dornsife School of Public Health at Drexel University. In her role, she engages with community members that are exposed to environmental hazards such as lead and outdoor air pollution from industry, and creates educational materials that enhance environmental health literacy. She now lives in Northwest Philadelphia with her rescue dog, Oscar. Dayeong Kwon (Republic of Korea) returned to his hometown Gangneung after leaving International House Philadelphia. Dayeong has been serving in the Republic of Korea Army as a second lieutenant since March 2016. He says he misses the parties at IHP and the many friends he met during his stay.
Marcelo Miranda (Brazil) returned to Brazil and obtained a teaching degree in mathematics after leaving IHP, where he says that he lived some of the best days of his life and met many amazing people. “IHP offered me the opportunity of making many new friends from varied nationalities that I still keep in touch with through social media. I’m sure our friendships will last forever,” he shared. Marcelo plans to pursue a graduate degree in mathematics. He hopes to study abroad.
Tugba Ozturk (Turkey) sends “Lovely greetings from Titanic City!” She’s working on a Master’s of Science in business analytics and management science at the University of Southampton in Southampton, United Kingdom (the port where the Titanic embarked on its ill-fated voyage. Tugba says the time she spent at International House Philadelphia was her first step to beginning her life’s journey. “When I arrived at International House, I felt lonely because I was away from my family and loved ones. However, it was easy to cope with these difficulties because of the friendly and kind staff and the fact that I was meeting students from all over the world,” she said. Tugba says she misses her “second home,” but she has priceless memories of IHP and hopes to return someday.
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H ow yo u c a n Supp o r t I n t e r n at i o n a l H o u s e P hi l a d e l phi a Support from our alumni makes a world of difference at International House Philadelphia, the region’s center for international arts, culture, educational and residential activities.
Your contribution to the Annual Fund will help: • • •
Maintain a welcoming, inclusive environment for our resident students and scholars from more than 75 countries around the world. Support our wide range of arts, culture and humanities programs, including our renowned cinema program and collaborations with local arts organizations, as well as our Spoken English and Foreign Language Program. Defray the costs of our many programs for Residents, ranging from Welcome Week and our Farewell Awards Reception to Social Hours, Voices of the House, Cultural Programs and more.
Donating to the Annual Fund is easy. just: • • • •
Make a secure online gift by visiting www.ihousephilly.org/support/annual-fund. Make a pledge by calling Nancy Martino, Director of Development, at 215-895-6528. Include International House (donor #1517) on all donation forms when you donate to the United Way. Send a check made payable to International House Philadelphia in the enclosed envelope.
As our way of saying thanks for a gift of $75 or more, we will provide annual Membership benefits to you, which include complimentary and discounted admission to hundreds of films, plus discounts on cultural programs, language classes, and more!
And there are other ways to support International House Philadelphia, including these options: • •
Gifts of Securities. Bequests and Planned Giving.
For more information about ways you can support International House Philadelphia, please contact Nancy Martino, Director of Development, at 215-895-6528 or nancym@ihphilly.org. Thank you once again for all that you do in supporting International House Philadelphia.
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