Part of the University’s mission is to provide experiences that prepare graduates to be active citizens of the world. A new program from the Office of International Programs (OIP), in partnership with the Housing and Residence Life Office, will expand students’ cultural awareness.
The Global Gateways Program will be the University’s first international-themed independent residence hall. It will be located in House Six of the Greek Village with additional residential living options on the International Floor of Witherspoon Hall. House Six is female only, while the International Floor provides for male/female accommodations.
“We are pleased to expand upon the 15-year tradition of partnership established by OIP through the International Student/Scholar Office and housing and residence life through the Witherspoon International Floor with this dynamic new programming model,” said Christina Sanchez, associate director for the Office of International Programs. “Faculty are invited to encourage students to apply for the Global Gateways Program or contact OIP with recommendations regarding departmental partnerships for programming.”
Through the Global Gateways Program, residents will participate in organized social and educational experiences to increase intercultural competence and global awareness. Types of programs include international cuisine cooking lessons, country-specific mini lectures/presentations, foreign film screenings, faculty fireside chats, volunteer options with the Charlotte international community and more.
OIP officials said U.S. and international students are invited to apply to live in this dynamic community; the goal is to have a diverse representation from both groups. Only upper-class female students are eligible for residence in the Gateways House; however, the capacity within Witherspoon International House provides opportunity for male and female residents of various class standing, including first-year students.
Information and links to the applications for both the Global Gateways House and the Witherspoon International Floor are available online. The application deadline for returning students is Thursday, Feb. 28. New students can apply after receiving their UNC Charlotte admission decision; review of applications continues until all rooms are filled.
Email international@uncc.edu with questions or for more information.