Cristian is a passionate, driven student at Bunker Hill Community College majoring in Business Transfer, with a wide range of future opportunities ahead of him. This year, he has been deeply involved in both his academics and his community, serving in student government, supporting first-generation college students, and working as a mentor to help others navigate their educational journeys. His background as a first-generation college student has shaped his strong work ethic, resilience, and commitment to giving back. Understanding the challenges that can come with pursuing higher education, Cristian is dedicated to creating inclusive spaces where students feel supported, informed, and empowered. Through leadership, collaboration, and service, he continues to make a meaningful impact on campus while preparing himself for continued academic and professional success in the field of business.
Lee An Reth is a currently a sophomore at Bunker Hill Community College. He is also an international student from Cambodia and hopes that someday he can represent his country in some way shape of form. By fall, he hopes to transfer to a four-year institution and major in economics.
Lee and I (Cristian) recently had the opportunity to attend a Chat & Chowder event hosted by WorldBoston, and it was an incredibly meaningful and enjoyable experience. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and valued as Green Room Scholars. Before the official start of the program, we had the privilege of sitting down with Joe, WorldBoston's CEO, and the evening’s guest speaker, Paul Knott. This smaller, more personal conversation allowed us to exchange experiences, ask thoughtful questions, and gain insight into Mr. Knott’s background and perspectives.
Speaking directly with the guest speaker before the event began was one of the highlights of the evening. We made sure to ask many questions about his professional journey, international experiences, and the broader themes related to global engagement. Mr. Knott was open, thoughtful, and encouraging in his responses. He created a comfortable space for discussion, which made it easy for us to share our own experiences as students and Green Room Scholars. The conversation felt genuine and intellectually stimulating, setting a positive tone for the rest of the night.
At the start of the main event, we were honored to be featured and recognized as Green Room Scholars. That moment made us feel appreciated and proud to represent our community. It was inspiring to see a room filled with individuals who value cultural exchange, dialogue, and global understanding. The audience was engaged, and the discussion throughout the event reflected the spirit of curiosity and connection that WorldBoston promotes.
Of course, the chowder itself was amazing and added to the welcoming atmosphere of the evening. Sharing a meal created a relaxed environment where conversations flowed naturally. By the end of the event, we had the chance to speak with several participants, exchange contact information, and build new connections. These informal conversations were just as valuable as the formal program, as they allowed us to learn about others’ backgrounds, careers, and international experiences.
One noticeable moment from the event was when Mr. Knott spoke about how he became a diplomat. He began by explaining the context of the British recruitment system: how the idea of becoming a diplomat was mostly achievable for kids from richer households. Coming from a poor town, Paul never imagined becoming a foreign officer. One day, however, he went to the career center at his school and saw a poster about the opportunity to represent his country and he applied. Months later, he received a call for an interview, something he admitted he had forgotten he even applied for. Although the recruitment process for diplomats has dramatically changed today and is more accessible for all citizens regardless of their socioeconomic status, which Mr. Knott also expressed was influenced by advances in media outreach, Paul Knott’s story is a testament of how being exposed to an opportunity can change a person’s trajectory.
One noticeable moment from the event was when Mr. Knott spoke about how he became a diplomat. He began by explaining the context of the British recruitment system: how the idea of becoming a diplomat was mostly achievable for kids from richer households. Coming from a poor town, Paul never imagined becoming a foreign officer. One day, however, he went to the career center at his school and saw a poster about the opportunity to represent his country and he applied. Months later, he received a call for an interview, something he admitted he had forgotten he even applied for. Although the recruitment process for diplomats has dramatically changed today and is more accessible for all citizens regardless of their socioeconomic status, which Mr. Knott also expressed was influenced by advances in media outreach, Paul Knott’s story is a testament of how being exposed to an opportunity can change a person’s trajectory.
Overall, the event was both enriching and enjoyable. It provided us with the opportunity to grow academically and professionally while also strengthening our communication and networking skills. We are deeply grateful for the chance to attend and represent Bunker Hill Community College. Opportunities like this allow students to step outside the classroom and engage directly with global leaders and community members.
WorldBoston also mentioned that they will be hosting more Chat & Chowder events in the future, with the next one scheduled for March. We strongly believe that BHCC students should continue participating in these events. These events offer students invaluable exposure to global conversations and create memorable experiences that foster confidence, curiosity, and connection. We truly appreciated this opportunity and look forward to attending similar events in the future.
