Eric works in the architectural sector as the Creative Director of Eric Xander Studio. For the millions of tourists who flock to the Dominican Republic each year seeking a cultural experience, Eric Xander Studio is an innovative architectural design company that aims to provide employment and business opportunities, preserve local culture through its proposed internationally award-winning museum, Taino Interpretation Center, and other projects that appeal to local and international architecture and construction clients, and combine architectural and cultural tourism to improve the quality of life of people from all socioeconomic backgrounds. Eric’s short-term goal is to complete initial negotiations with interested local and international organizations and lay the foundation for the museum project. Their long-term vision is to expand the company’s cultural development goals by designing museums throughout America that celebrate cultural and folkloric values and design decent housing for people with low incomes. Coming into the YLAI Fellowship, Eric’s top business challenge is Social Impact. More specifically, they want to approach organizations that can support the company’s projects and connect with them through a culturally and socially profitable business plan. During the Fellowship Placement, Eric hopes to gain exposure for his project, explore American ideals, learn the art of successful negotiation to gain institutional or private support, and create an attractive and strategic business action plan.