International Friendship & Culture Exchange (FACE) Program

Welcome to the International Friendship & Culture Exchange Program (FACE) landing page. From here, you’ll learn about what FACE is, how to get involved, and access this year’s application!

What is FACE?

FACE is a semester-long ISSO/OIP program that was developed to provide American and International students structured opportunities to spend time together. Oftentimes, this means that students will meet to partake in small group conversation to share the ideas, customs and concerns of their own respective countries, but it can also include other activities throughout the semester such as team trivia events or informal excursions.

The program is semi-structured, which means that participants will be provided with resources to spark great cross cultural conversations, yet participants and their groups decide when to meet and what to talk about.

The Goals of Program:

  • Encourage open communication between and among international and U.S. American students
  • Improve awareness and understanding of different cultures
  • Provide international students at UNC Charlotte an opportunity to improve speaking skills and exposure to U.S. Culture

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What do past participants have to say about FACE?

  • “My course work was so stressful last semester and it was relaxing to spend a couple of hours with FACE team weekly.”
  • “FACE helped me meet new people and interact with different cultures. In this land where I knew no one, FACE was an incredible asset for me. I absolutely love my face members!”
  • “This was my first time joining FACE this semester and I enjoyed it a lot. Attended almost all FACE events and it was fun to meet new people and understand different cultures and different viewpoints. I would be joining FACE again for next semesters for sure and would also recommend others to join for some fun events and making new friends.”

How to Apply:

For those interested in participating for the Fall 2024 semester, there’s only one step:

  1. Complete and submit the FACE Interest & Information Form (click the button below) by August 29th, 2024.

Click Here to Apply to Be a FACE Participant!

What Should I Expect After Submitting My Application?

Applicants will be notified via @charlotte.edu email account regarding their first meeting with their FACE group. Fall 2024 initial group meetings will be held in-person September 4th, and 5th at 4pm in CONE 210.

After attending the first meeting, what happens next is really up to you and your group! Though the ISSO will facilitiate some group events and check-ins throughout the semester, most of your small group gatherings will be independently decided upon and arranged amongst participants. Attendance at in-person meetings proposed independently by groups is always optional.

Questions?

If you have any questions or would like additional information, contact Vivian Klentos at aklentos@charlotte.edu.