Young talent plays an important role in international scientific exchange and cooperation. The Asia Simulation Federation (ASIASIM) supports young professionals with international educational backgrounds and cross-cultural experience by providing practical opportunities in international conferences, science communication, project preparation, and international collaboration.

Through tasks ranging from writing and conference support to cross-cultural communication and teamwork, interns gain practical experience and develop their own understanding of international organizations. Their diverse backgrounds, academic disciplines, and cultural perspectives foster mutual learning and inspiration.

Following the first series of internship reflections, this edition explores the theme “My View of International Organizations”. Four interns share their experiences and insights into the values of openness, inclusiveness, innovation, and cooperation, as well as what they have learned during their internships at ASIASIM.

WANG Suchun

PhD Student at Alexandria University, Egypt | Chinese

Getting to Know International Organizations Through a Rainstorm

During my years studying in Alexandria, I gradually became familiar with the weather along the Mediterranean coast. After the long, hot summer, heavy rain would arrive one storm after another in October and November, bringing cooler air. I remember each downpour so clearly because when the rain became too heavy, the university would announce class cancellations.

The first time I received such a notice, I stared at the message for quite a while. Growing up in China, I had rarely experienced school closures because of strong winds, rain, or even hail. I felt both delighted and surprised, and began noticing the differences between everyday life in Egypt and China. The same rain can lead to different arrangements in different cities. How, then, do cities choose their development paths in response to their own environments and needs? Later, while discussing my research with my supervisor, I learned that Egypt was advancing its smart city development under its “Egypt Vision 2030” strategy. This immediately reminded me of Hangzhou’s “City Brain” system. Although the two places are far apart, both are exploring how digital technologies can improve urban operations and people's lives. How exactly can technology transform a city? And what can different regions learn from one another’s experiences?

Driven by these questions, I wanted to explore emerging issues in technological development and learn more about fields that were still unfamiliar to me, such as artificial intelligence, digital twins, and embodied AI. The Asia Simulation Federation’s location near Liangzhu also made me think that an internship might give me the opportunity to visit the area and gain more concrete insights for my research. With these expectations in mind, I decided to join ASIASIM.

When I first heard the name “Asia Simulation Federation”, my imagination immediately wandered into the world of video games. Could I travel through the screen to Ginger Island in Stardew Valley and search for Golden Walnuts? Could the house I built in Minecraft one day become a real home? Might humans and intelligent agents in digital worlds actually meet someday? At the time, I could not clearly explain what “simulation” meant, but I was already fascinated by the possibilities the word evoked.

My understanding of international organizations, meanwhile, came mostly from the news. I imagined people from different countries coming together for peace and development, exchanging views at meetings and working toward shared outcomes. Once I began my internship, however, I encountered the work that takes place before those scenes unfold: formatting official WeChat articles, proofreading the Simulation of Everything magazine, writing news releases, contacting speakers for the Science and Technology Development Forum, and preparing promotional materials. A news release must communicate events clearly, while a speaker’s biography requires repeated fact-checking. I gradually realized that writing is not simply about producing polished sentences. It must help people from different backgrounds understand the purpose of a conference accurately, and every detail must withstand careful scrutiny.

While preparing a parallel session for the Chongqing Science and Technology Development Forum, I was also responsible for contacting guests. During the National Day holiday, a friendly professor often called me to discuss arrangements. With little time to organize my thoughts, I had to respond promptly and adapt when I was unsure of something. This was a valuable exercise. Beyond improving my language skills, I was learning how to think clearly when unexpected issues arose and keep communication moving forward.

Later, my work assignments changed, and I shifted to publicity for the Wenzhou Forum, continuing to write news articles and speaker biographies and handle other preparations. I did not immediately feel at ease when plans changed. Instead, I had to familiarize myself with the new tasks and adjust my pace. This experience taught me that growth at work sometimes happens when things do not go as expected. It also gave me a more concrete understanding of professionalism. I used to think professionalism meant having extensive knowledge and being familiar with standard procedures. Now, I believe it also means understanding the task at hand and doing it well, even when circumstances change.

It also led me to reflect on what I believe an international organization should be.

I hope it is inclusive, allowing people with different backgrounds and experiences to participate and giving newcomers opportunities to learn, express themselves, and take responsibility. I hope it is open to different perspectives, allowing experiences from different regions and fields to inform one another. I also hope it has the courage to innovate, remaining attentive to the changes brought by new technologies while continually seeking better ways to communicate and collaborate in everyday work.

After more than a month of interning, my understanding of international organizations has shifted from imagination to reality. I am still drawn to the global perspective and spirit of cooperation they represent, but I now better understand that these ideals must be reflected in every conversation, every preparation task, and every participant's actions. To me, an international organization exists to promote world peace and love. I hope to continue approaching my work with dedication, inclusiveness, and an open mind, contributing not only to the organization but also to a more peaceful and loving world.

ZHAO Wuwei

Master’s Student at Sapienza University of Rome | Chinese

Beyond the Conference Hall: My View of International Organizations

When people think of international organizations, they often picture flags in conference halls and speeches delivered on stage. Since joining the Asia Simulation Federation (ASIASIM), I have come to see more of what happens beyond the conference hall. Organizing a conference from the planning stage to its opening requires continuous communication among many people. While the discussions on stage may last only a few hours, the preparations begin long before. My previous experience participating in Chinese student and scholar associations in South Korea and Italy taught me that organizing events depends on clear division of responsibilities and teamwork. At ASIASIM, I have seen how these efforts support international scientific and technological exchange on a broader scale.

During my undergraduate studies at Chung-Ang University in South Korea, I participated in the Chinese Students and Scholars Association, working with other members to organize events such as welcome gatherings and Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations. Later, while pursuing my master’s degree at Sapienza University of Rome, I continued my involvement in the association, mainly planning social media posts, designing posters, and documenting events for university presentations, overseas recruitment fairs, and cultural activities. I also coordinated with others in a multilingual environment involving Chinese, English, and Italian. A tea ceremony hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Italy showed me how a cup of tea or a single question can open the door to cross-cultural dialogue. As a volunteer assisting with consular services at the embassy, I also helped respond to inquiries and organize information. These experiences taught me that effective communication starts with understanding what matters to others, explaining things clearly, and handling practical tasks well.

At ASIASIM, I have encountered a wider and more detailed range of responsibilities. Preparations are ongoing for the upcoming Global Simulation Conference, arrangements for the World Young Scientists Summit need to be completed one by one, and speeches for the opening ceremony of the Asia Simulation Conference require repeated review.

LI Qingyi

Graduate Student at Northwestern Polytechnical University | Indonesian

Learning and Growing Through International Cooperation

During my undergraduate studies, I actively joined student organizations and volunteer activities, taking on different roles, from member to leader. Through these experiences, I learned many practical skills and how to work with others. However, I had not yet experienced working in an international organization, where people from different countries and backgrounds work together toward a common goal.Fortunately, in May this year, I had the opportunity to present my research at an international conference. I felt both nervous and excited because it was a new experience for me. I prepared everything in advance to make sure I would not forget anything important. I was also grateful for the support of my supervisor and university, which gave me more confidence.Besides presenting my research, I also took the opportunity to observe how the conference was organized and what the team needed to prepare before, during, and after the event. I realized that organizing an international event requires people from different backgrounds to work together. During meetings, team members need to listen to each other, share their ideas, and discuss different opinions before reaching a conclusion. This experience changed the way I viewed international organizations. I learned that success is not about which country performs the best or whose ideas are the best. Instead, it is about how we work with people who have different opinions and personalities, respect each other's ideas, and make everyone feel welcome. A successful event does not depend on one person alone but on the efforts of the whole team. When people share different ideas and learn from one another, they can also find new ways to solve problems. To me, an international organization is about openness, inclusiveness, innovation, and collaboration. Although we come from different backgrounds, we can still work together toward the same goal.

Later that same year, I was fortunate to be accepted as an intern at the Asia Simulation Federation (ASIASIM). This has given me another opportunity to experience working in an international organization. I am very grateful for this opportunity, but I also had some concerns at first. Since ASIASIM is based in China, I'm worried that my Chinese language skills might not be good enough. I was also unfamiliar with the field of simulation technology. However, ASIASIM has given me the opportunity to learn new things and improve myself. Through this internship, I am learning that an international organization can welcome people from different countries and give them opportunities to learn and contribute, even when they are still developing their language skills or professional knowledge.

During my internship, I have met people from different backgrounds, including colleagues from neighboring countries such as Malaysia and Cambodia, as well as Chinese colleagues who have also studied abroad. Working with them has been an interesting experience, and I feel welcome as part of the team. During meetings, we have opportunities to share our ideas and opinions. I can also see the importance of teamwork in our current work preparing for the upcoming forum and conference. Each intern has different responsibilities, but we support one another whenever we face problems or difficulties with our tasks. We ask questions, share opinions, and help each other find solutions. Through these daily experiences, I am learning that having different backgrounds does not mean we have to disagree or work separately. Instead, we can learn from each other, combine our ideas, and find better ways to work together.Looking back on my experience at the international conference and reflecting on my ongoing internship at ASIASIM, I have come to understand that an international organization is not simply a place where people from different countries work together. More importantly, it is a place where people can learn from their differences, share ideas openly, respect one another, and work toward a common goal. My experiences have taught me that successful teamwork does not require everyone to think or work in the same way. What matters is our willingness to understand each other, support one another, and contribute to the team. As I continue my internship at ASIASIM, I hope to learn more about working with people from different backgrounds and how we can achieve better results together. To me, this is the true meaning of an international organization: people from different backgrounds coming together, learning from one another, and achieving something meaningful together.

LIN Zuer

Graduate Student at Xiamen University | Malaysian

Stepping into International Organizations and Hearing the Echoes of the World

1. From the Office to International Conferences

During my first two months as an intern at the Asia Simulation Federation (ASIASIM), my work mainly involved organizing documents, translating materials, and editing magazines. Through these tasks, I gradually learned about research developments in simulation and international cooperation. However, international organizations and their broader issues still felt somewhat distant from my everyday life. It was not until I helped organize international conferences and forums that I realized the gap was not as wide as I had imagined. My experience helping organize two events in October was particularly memorable.

Organizing conferences was more demanding than I had expected. We had to arrive in the host city early and work intensively on preparations. Contacting speakers, collecting information, confirming itineraries, coordinating airport transfers, checking dietary restrictions, and gathering presentation materials were all part of the process. Arrangements could change at any time, and communication did not always go smoothly. Every detail required attention, from daytime coordination and document preparation to responding to messages at night.

Previously, I learned about international organizations through documents, magazines, and news reports. Now, I was getting to know them through the people I met: renowned experts and scholars, faculty members from partner institutions, experienced event organizers, and student volunteers around my age. These encounters reshaped my understanding of international organizations, making the perspectives of people from different countries, cultures, and professional fields more tangible.

2. Understanding Trust Through Collaboration and Communication

Organizing the Science and Technology Development Forum required close cooperation among all parties. The Chongqing Society of Artificial Intelligence provided strong support and helped recruit volunteers. Working with these young people taught me how to coordinate a team and allocate responsibilities. As we moved from cautious task assignments to entrusting one another with responsibilities such as venue management and volunteer coordination, we developed a strong working rapport. I learned that effective collaboration requires not only a clear division of responsibilities, but also mutual trust and accountability.

Although I grew up in a multilingual environment as a Malaysian, communicating formally with international experts still required me to learn the etiquette and skills of international professional interactions. Initially, I mainly handled email correspondence with overseas guests. As preparations progressed, I gradually took on responsibilities such as coordinating itineraries and assisting guests on-site. When I finally had the opportunity to meet them face to face, even a small star like me could shine in that moment.

The invited speakers were professional and courteous. Professor Somroo from Pakistan left a particularly strong impression on me. Despite his extensive experience, he remained approachable and humble. After returning to Pakistan, he sent a message expressing his sincere appreciation for the arrangements during his visit. His recognition made me happy and reminded me that communication is more than exchanging information; sincere efforts can receive equally sincere responses.

3. From Conference Observer to Active Participant

I had once attended conferences as a participant, but it was only after becoming involved in organizing them that I realized how different the two experiences were. Participants see academic presentations and conference outcomes, while organizers are responsible for coordinating different aspects and ensuring that international events run smoothly. During the Science and Technology Development Forum, I had the opportunity to meet experts and scholars from China and abroad and learn about the latest developments in fields such as simulation and artificial intelligence. Through tasks such as guest reception, staff coordination, and on-site event management, I also became directly involved in international exchanges.

My experience at the Science and Technology Development Forum helped me approach my work with greater confidence at the later Wenzhou conference. Despite differences in event arrangements and working conditions, I became more proactive in identifying priorities, resolving on-site issues, and developing my own approach to handling tasks. This growth would not have been possible without the support and trust of the Federation. From routine administrative work to assisting with international conference organization, the Federation has given me opportunities to gain hands-on experience and take on responsibilities independently, allowing me to learn and grow through practice.

International organizations not only provide platforms for professionals to exchange ideas and collaborate, but also create opportunities for young people to gain practical experience. What I have gained goes beyond a better understanding of international scientific and technological exchanges. I have also developed the ability to take responsibility, coordinate with people from different backgrounds, and address practical challenges. Even young interns with limited experience can find their place and become active contributors to international exchange through organizational support and their own efforts.

4. From Practical Experience to Personal Growth

Working in an international organization made me realize that as we look towards the world, we also have the opportunity to be seen by it. Courage and potential that we may not have recognized in ourselves can gradually emerge through experience. Everyone has the potential to shine when given the right opportunity. An open and inclusive international organization should not only bring together outstanding talent but also create opportunities for young people to participate and grow.

The openness of international organizations lies not only in bringing together people from different countries and fields, but also in giving people from different backgrounds the opportunity to participate. Cross-cultural and cross-linguistic exchanges, along with the trust and recognition shared between people, remain with me and continue to inspire me. Through this experience, I have seen not only a bigger world, but also the possibility of becoming part of it.

For young people seeking to broaden their international perspectives, working in an international organization is an opportunity to apply their strengths, better understand international affairs, and develop their skills.

Young people from different countries and regions come together on the platform of international scientific and technological organizations. Their diverse experiences and perspectives enrich exchanges, while shared experiences help them gain a better understanding of international cooperation.

May more young people have the opportunity to engage with international organizations, build understanding through exchange, and develop their abilities through cooperation, becoming a new generation of young contributors to scientific and technological exchange between China and the world.