UHD Students Learn about World Renowned Foods and Education in Taiwan at the Study Abroad Fair 2018

PHOTO: Isabelle Chen (L), Coordinator of the Education Division of TECO in Houston, introduces Taiwan MOE funded programs to a UHD student.

In spite of the fact that access to online resources has never been easier, the Study Abroad Office at the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) continues to value the importance of face-to-face consultations for their students with interest in studying abroad.

In an effort to provide helpful information and save students from the hassle of online searching, UHD hosts a Study Abroad Fair every semester. Its faculty-led programs and study abroad providers throughout the United States (U.S.) are invited to participate. This semester, a total of 14 entities participated in the fair, including KEI.ORG (Knowledge Exchange Institute), CISabroad, the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship granted by the U.S. Department of State, Sol Education Abroad, AIFS (American Institute For Foreign Study), isa (International Studies Abroad), and Academic Programs International and International Studies Abroad in Austin, among others. The Education Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Houston (the Education Division) was the only consulate office present at the event. Not only does the fair provide information on degree and language programs internationally but it also offers resources on internships, volunteers, temp-jobs, and scholarships opportunities available to students.

UHD professor, Joe Sample, who teaches creative writing in food cultures, has led two groups of students to Taiwan in 2013 and 2016. He visited the Education Division’s table to express his support and interest in establishing more exchange programs with Taiwan. UHD student, Ms. Sirena Olivan, contacted the Education Division to request further details on the MOE funded programs the day following the fair. Another student, Mr. Stance shared his love for Pearl Milk Tea and was amazed to learn about the origin of the drink after visiting the table. 

The promotion material, Taiwanese Postcards with street foods and tourist attractions illustrations was quite popular at the fair. As an overseas representative office in the U.S., the Education Division in Houston makes every effort to promote Taiwan whenever presented with an opportunity. Actions speak louder than words, feedback from teachers and students is the best testimony for the hard work that the Education Division does. It is estimated that five hundred students attended the fair this year.

PHOTOS: UHD students attend the Study Abroad Fair

-August 31, 2018