Introduce US culture to international scholars: Fullbright volunteer opportunity
From July 25 to Aug. 15, the English Language Program, or ELP, at Kansas State University will host a group of Fulbright Scholar Program graduate students from around the world for a Pre-Academic Program. During the three-week orientation, participants will study English and the U.S. academic system and culture before beginning their graduate programs — ranging from architecture to law — at other universities across the country.
In keeping with the Fulbright mission to promote mutual understanding and peace between other countries and the U.S., the group will also have opportunities to experience American culture through interaction with the local Manhattan community.
The ELP is looking for families and community members willing to host two to three students for an evening meal or an activity on either Sunday, Aug. 2, or Sunday, Aug. 9. Volunteers will be invited to a welcome dinner on Sunday, July 26, to meet with the students, and will be welcome to join in other various activities and social events through the program.
To volunteer to welcome students to the Midwest, please
The Fulbright Program is the U.S. government's flagship international exchange program supported by the people of the United States, the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and partner countries worldwide. Since its inception in 1946, the program has provided more than 380,000 students, scholars, teachers, artists and other professionals — chosen for their academic merit and leadership potential — with the opportunity to exchange ideas and contribute to solving shared international concerns. The Pre-Academic Program is a sponsored activity hosted in part of the Fulbright Program.
The ELP, part of the Office of International Programs, began operating in 1986. The ELP offers special programs for visiting international groups and provides English instruction for students who do not yet meet K-State's language proficiency requirements. Beyond coursework, the ELP supports students through language screening and helps them acclimate to American culture and the U.S. academic environment.
— Submitted by Joe Moore