Program Introduction

The IEF Education Foundation, a non-profit international education organization, is pleased to sponsor a three-week cultural and educational exchange program to Taiwan. This program is designed to give a select group of American students an introduction to Taiwan's history, culture and people.

In additional to gaining an in-depth insight into Taiwan, participants will represent their college or university at several special events scheduled with students and professors from three major universities in Taiwan. At these events students will have the opportunity to talk about their schools, share personal experiences and answer questions. In essence, participants are expected to become ambassadors for their college and the American educational system. 

Program Description

American Student Ambassadors will leave Los Angeles for Taiwan on July 6 and return home on July 26, 2002. The trip spans across three cities including Taipei, Hsinchu, and Kaohsiung, each city respectively located in the northern, northwest and southern region of Taiwan. 

American students will have an intercultural and educational exchange between the host universities' professors and students at:

• Shih Hsin University
• Hsuan Chuang University
• Shih Chien University

In addition, Ambassadors will be hosted by local Taiwanese families in Hsinchu. Each day features a combination of activities and visits that will enrich the participants' understandings of the social and cultural aspects of Taiwan. 

The action-packed itinerary features an extensive array of cultural experiences to help students understand the rich and fascinating Taiwanese cultures. The program features:

• An overview of Taiwan's art, music, drama and cuisine
• A thoughtful review of Taiwan's history
• Seminars and social events with local students and professors
• Tours of Taiwan's cultural and historic sites

Visits and Tours Highlights

• Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall 
• Martyrs' Shrine 
• National Palace Museum 
• Fort San Domingo 
• Chuifen - "Gold Capital of Asia" 
• Yang Ming Shan Hot Spring 
• Tihua Street 
• Ying Ko Ceramic Museum 
• Salt-picking path 
• Sanyi Wood Carving 
• Kenting National Park 
• Maolin National Park and Rainforest 
• Famous night bazaars and markets