In last week’s post, you met Rafael from São Paulo, our IT intern we are hosting through the IAESTE program. This week, we’d like you to meet our Celebrate the Connections documentary producer and resident jack of all trades: Christon Ragavan.
Every year at Cultural Vistas, in addition to working with more than 900 U.S. businesses, companies, and NGOs to facilitate intern and trainee exchanges through the J-1 Visa. Because we practice what we preach, we also host international interns ourselves, like Christon and Rafael.
Meet Christon
- From Mumbai, India
- Recent graduate of Karunya University with a degree in engineering
- Serving as a multimedia intern through IAESTE supporting our Celebrate the Connections project, a U.S.-India arts exchange.
What motivated you to pursue an internship in the United States?
Having studied media studies, Hollywood movies always fascinated me and had a great influence. This is my first time in the United States and to pursue an internship in the land of media is a privilege.
What are three things that one might be surprised to know about you?
1. My core interest is in audio engineering, but while I am here I am primarily doing (and learning!) video work!
2. I play keyboard, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, and flute as well, but not as good as bass guitar.
3. Each time I take a walk, I get new fresh creative ideas!
How do you expect this experience to benefit you upon returning home?
The best thing I can take away from this experience is a wider perspective, particularly the cultural aspect of it.
What’s a common misconception about your country?
This is difficult one. People in India are very helpful and respect women. In my experience, some people have a misconception about this.
What are you looking forward to most during your time here?
Explore around!
Do you have any hobbies?
1. Music
2. Music
3. Music
either playing or listening!
Most fun thing you’ve done so far?
Took a morning walk in the snow with no warm clothes! It was the first time I had seen snow for myself.
The one thing you miss most about home?
Foooooood!!
Best meal you’ve had in the United States so far?
My welcome lunch of Korean barbecue. I forget the dish’s name, but it was really amazing!
View Christon’s Documentary at the Celebrate the Connections Showcase
During his time with Cultural Vistas, Christon has made meaningful contributions to our Celebrate the Connections project. Below is a sneak preview into the mini-documentary he is producing about six American urban artists’ four-city, 15-day visit to India earlier this year.
The full documentary will be unveiled together with live performances from some of the artists themselves on Tuesday, May 24 at our Washington, D.C. office as part of the Celebrate the Connections Showcase. If you agree that great art inspires, transcends borders, and creates connections, join us and RSVP now.
Connect on LinkedIn
- (Re)Visit: Washington, D.C. - May 22, 2020
- (Re)Visit: Philippines - May 21, 2020
- (Re)Visit: Japan - May 20, 2020
