International Education Week (IEW), is an initiative led by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange. It is observed in more than 100 countries worldwide every November. Join AFS-USA and a world of global citizens to #PassPeaceForward this IEW!
This year, IEW will be held November 18-22, 2024. Check out these resources and opportunities to get started!
IEW Contests
Student Presentation Contest
Give a presentation about your culture in at least one class at school (in-person or virtually). Follow these steps to make an impact (and maybe even win a prize!) during International Education Week (IEW):
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STEP 1: Ask your teacher(s) if you can give a cultural presentation in your classes during IEW (November 18-22, 2024). Use this teacher handout to explain why.
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STEP 2: Use the AFS PowerPoint template sent to your email (or download it here - PowerPoint Presentation Template) and fill it in with photos, and details about yourself, your home country, and town. Add lots of pictures and share any cultural details you want. You can demonstrate a dance, wear traditional clothing, play music - be creative and have fun! Be sure to read the notes below each slide for presenting tips.
*If you are a Sponsored Programs student on a U.S. Department of State Scholarship like YES, FLEX, or CBYX, please use this Powerpoint Presentation Template for SP students.
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STEP 3: After your presentation(s), tell us what you did! Submit details from your presentation by December 6, 2024 to be entered to win a Polaroid camera.
- For all CBYX, FLEX, and YES students: All CBYX, FLEX, and YES students will receive an IEW activities survey sent by American Councils to be completed and submitted by Sunday, November 24.
You will also receive an email with these instructions and other details to help you make the most of your IEW experience.
Prizes
By giving one or more presentations in your school and joining the initiative to spread simple acts of kindness and #PassPeaceForward, you'll be entered in the contest to win a Polaroid camera and other AFS swag!
Just be sure to log your presentation by December 6, 2024.
Eligibility
Feel free to customize your presentation, but you must include the last few slides of the AFS-USA template to be considered.
Presentation Qualities
The merit of each presentation will be judged on these qualities:
- Cultural Insights - for example, the presentation includes details about your home culture(s) and exchange experience in the U.S.
- Visual Appeal - for example, the presentation uses clear, relevant images
- Creativity
Encourage your classmates to visit the AFS-USA website - afsusa.org.
- Wear your AFS T-shirt to show your #AFSPride and start cross-cultural conversations at your school!
- Send your classmates to afsusa.org/study-abroad where they can sign up for an AFS study abroad program.
IEW Interest Form
Are there students, teachers, or parents in your classroom that want more information after your presentation? Please have them scan this QR code to connect with us!
Social Photo Contest
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STEP 1: Take a photo during International Education Week! Strike a pose with your favorite teacher or classmate or get a group shot with your presentation audience (in-person or virtually, with their permission).
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STEP 2: Post it on Instagram! Tag @afs_usa in the photo and use #AFSEffect or #IEW2024 in your caption! You can also send them to us at marketing@afsusa.org.
- For all CBYX, FLEX, and YES students: use #KLYES, #FLEXProgram, or #CBYX in your caption, depending on your program.
- For all CBYX, FLEX, and YES students: use #KLYES, #FLEXProgram, or #CBYX in your caption, depending on your program.
- STEP 3: We'll be reposting your photos throughout the week! We'll choose three favorites and DM the winners' accounts on Instagram. Three winners each receive AFS swag! Additional prizes may be announced during the contest.