Events are open to the public free of charge. Please visit our Eventbrite or Facebook page to view event schedules. If you would like to attend, please arrive on time. For events that require registration in advance, a registration link will be provided in the announcement.
Note: ID card is required for entry.
October 2016
PAS Interns Info Session
Time: Monday, October 3, 9:00 – 11:00am
Instructor: AC Interns, Tran Thi Thanh Van-AC Director
Are you interested in being an Intern at the American Center? How do you get an internship? And what are the requirements? Come to find the answers and mingle with our Interns. Bring your questions and friends!
The Forty-four
Time: Monday, October 3, 5:30 – 7:00pm
Before we find out who will be the 45th President of the United States, let’s take a look back at our 44 past Presidents. Come learn about their legacies, see their most important moments in office, and hear about some of the job perks of being the Commander in Chief!
https://fortyfour-achcmc-oct3.eventbrite.com
The Internet of Things (IoT)
Time: Monday, October 3, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Speaker: Hua Le Thanh Vy, Lecturer, HCMC University of Science
Come learn insightful details about some factors that shape the design and development of Internet of Things solutions, and participate in an open discussion and predictions about the coming trends in this area. The program will be in Vietnamese.
TED Talk Club
Time: Tuesday, October 4, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Instructor: Christopher McDonnell, English Language Fellow
In our Ted Talk Club we will work together to view, discuss and celebrate creative ideas. As a group we will identify our passions and ask ourselves, what makes our heart beat faster? We will explore the ideas that we are passionate about by diving into activities that expand our curiosity. What are you waiting for? Join us and bring friends!
Liberal Arts College Mini-Fair
Time: Wednesday, October 5, 3:30 – 6:00 pm
Liberal Arts Colleges represent a valued, respected, and influential segment of American higher education. Talk to admissions officers from nearly 20 institutions to learn the merits of their institutions and the processes involved in the admissions and financial aid opportunities. Consulate Officers will also be there to guide you through the visa procedures. Online registration is recommended: https://goo.gl/LAUnP3
YSEALI Info Session
Time: Thursday, October 6, 9:00 – 11:00am
Speaker: YSEALI Coordinator
Are you applying for the Spring 2017 YSEALI Academic Fellows Program? Are you planning to celebrate the 3rd birthday of YSEALI? Then come and join the info session at the American Center to learn about YSEALI opportunities, tricks and tips for a successful fellowship application shared by the fellows who returned from the program, as well as how you can be a part of YSEALI YOUnified Day this December!
English Teaching Workshop Series: Ed Camp Model Conference
Time: Thursday, October 6, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Instructor: Christopher McDonnell, English Language Fellow
EdCamp is an innovative conference that is designed to create a participant-driven, fun-filled day of professional development. The conference will consist of facilitators, instead of official presenters, who will lead the group discussions that arise in each of the day’s breakout sessions. Participants come to EdCamp with ideas about what they would like to learn and what they would like to share. It is the participants who decide what the day will look like. This session is for current English language teachers. Space is limited, please RSVP here:
https://english-teaching-workshop-series.eventbrite.com
Vice Presidential Debate (speaker)
Time: Thursday, October 6, 5:30-7:00pm
Moderator: Lasson Ron, Economic Officer
We know who Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump are, but what do you know about Tim Kaine and Mike Pence? Join us to learn more about the role of Vice President and watch highlights from their debate!
https://vice-presidential-debate.eventbrite.com
American Culture series: American Food
Time: Friday, October 7, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Instructor: Christopher McDonnell, English Language Fellow
This Round table discussion and presentation will touch on everything from Big City Food and dinning to Small Town dining to drive-in diners and food trucks and everything in between. We will explore regional food from everything from BBQ to to Pizza and all food in between.
International Day of the Girl
Time: Tuesday, October 11, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Speaker: Angela Young and Sarah Hennessey, Foreign Service Officers
Come celebrate the International Day of the Girl with Angela Young and Sarah Hennessey, Foreign Service Officers posted in Jerusalem and Tunisia. Hear about U.S. Embassy and Consulate programs focused on girls and women, as well as what life is like and what Angela and Sarah enjoy most about where they each live. They will also be available for a Q & A.
Short Story Club
Time: Tuesday, October 11, 5:30 – 7:00pm
Instructor: Rob Crotty, U.S. Consular Officer
In the spirit of Halloween, we’ll be reading Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart.” Edgar Allen Poe is one of America’s most famous authors and is considered the father of the horror genre in American literature. You know he must be famous because he is always referenced in The Simpsons. Stop by to read and discuss his most famous story!
You can find a copy here: https://americanenglish.state.gov/files/ae/resource_files/the_tell-tale_heart_0.pdf
Second Presidential Debate
Time: Wednesday, October 12, 5:30-7:00pm
Time for Round 2! Join us to take a look inside the second Presidential Debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. This debate is in a Town Hall style and promises to be an interesting way to see the candidates face off.
https://second-debate-achcmc-oct12.eventbrite.com
English Teaching Workshop Series: Technology in the English Language Classroom series
Time: Thursday, October 13, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Instructor: Christopher McDonnell, English Language Fellow
This workshop will focus on the Conceptual Framework (CRCD) “Collect – Relate – Create – Donate” created by Professor Ben Schneiderman. The workshop will demonstrate and allow for teachers/attendees to practice technology integration in the English Language Classroom. Teachers/Workshop attendees will learn how to use media to create multiple avenues to information (collect & consume). Teachers/Workshop attendees will learn how to use media to provide different pathways for students to demonstrate their knowledge, understanding and mastery of content. Attendees will learn how to use media to engage students and prompt deeper, sustained pursuit of knowledge. The workshop will demonstrate Google Drive Workflow including manual sharing strategies and automation with Google Drive ad-ons. The workshop will demonstrate and allow for attendees to use and learn about Learning Management Systems, Behavior Management Systems and Instant Response Systems. Space is limited. Please RSVP here: https://technology-in-english-classroom.eventbrite.com
Racial and Cultural Stereotypes in the U.S.
Time: Thursday, October 13, 5:30 – 7:00pm
Speaker: Kenya Jordana James, U.S. Consulate Officer
Come join Consulate Officer Kenya James, who will walk you through racial and cultural stereotypes in the U.S. and dispel myths that people have about different groups in America. Bring your questions!
Demystifying the Student Visa Process
Time: Monday, October 17, 3:00 – 4:30pm
Speaker: U.S. Consulate Officer
Consulate Officer will guide you through the student visa application process.
TED Talk Club
Time: Tuesday, October 18, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Instructor: Christopher McDonnell, English Language Fellow
In our Ted Talk Club we will work together to view, discuss and celebrate creative ideas. As a group we will identify our passions and ask ourselves, what makes our heart beat faster? We will explore the ideas that we are passionate about by diving into activities that expand our curiosity. What are you waiting for? Join us and bring friends!
The First Lady
Time: Tuesday, October 18, 5:30-7:00pm
Moderator: Anne Eisenhower Turnbull, U.S. Economic Officer
What is the role of the First Lady when her husband is President? How does living in the White House effect the President’s kids? What would we call the husband of a female President? Join us as we answer all these questions and more with a look at the women who have served as the First Lady of the United States.
https://the-first-lady.eventbrite.com
Cyber Security Awareness Month
Time: Wednesday, October 19, 11:00 am – 12:00pm
Speaker: Travis Nissen, U.S. Consulate Information Management Specialist
October is Cyber Security Awareness Month! Join us to learn about how to stay safe when you are online.
Conversation Hour with American Students
Time: Tuesday, October 19, 5:00-7:00pm
Speakers: American students
Come practice your English and learn about what it’s like to live in the U.S.! Join us for an interactive discussion with a group of 12 American students from various majors and universities. Be ready to share your experience of being a Vietnamese college student too!
Music Education in the U.S.
Time: Thursday, October 20, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Speakers: Alexander M. Cannon, Assistant Professor of Music History/Ethnomusicology, School of Music, Western Michigan University
In this information session, Dr. Alexander M. Cannon, an ethnomusicologist at Western Michigan University, introduces the many ways that students approach the study of music in the United States. Conservatories and music schools offer a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in music performance, music composition, music technology, music scholarship, music education, and music therapy. With so many programs, applicants often feel overwhelmed by their choices; many worry as well that a degree in music only yields a low-paying performance career. During this interactive presentation and the following Q&A session, Dr. Cannon debunks the myths about the study of music and provides information on the many career paths possible with a music degree. He also describes the structures of specific types of music programs in the United States. While some programs provide a direct path into a career, other programs are more flexible and allow students to cultivate multiple expertise areas. An education in music opens doors to artistry, creativity, and entrepreneurship, enabling graduates to tackle properly the increasingly diverse and globalized world in which we operate.
Women in Community and Cultural Leadership
Time: Thursday, October 20, 5:30 – 7:00 pm
Please join Consul General Tarnowka as she celebrates Women’s Day with some of Vietnam’s top cultural leaders. This year, we will explore women’s leadership in culture, society, and entertainment. Singer Hong Hanh, NGO-founder/traditional music performer Tina Nguyen, and actress Kim Khanh will join the Consul General for an interactive roundtable discussion. Please bring a valid photo ID for entrance.
American Culture series: Customs and Holidays
Time: Friday, October 21, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Instructor: Christopher McDonnell, English Language Fellow
This round table discussion and presentation will be all thing American Customs and Holidays. We will explore variety of different customs in the American family nationally, regional and locally. We will discuss the many traditions and customs attached to those holidays.
Third Presidential Debate
Time: Monday, October 24, 5:30-7:00pm
Come to the AC to discuss the final debate between the candidates before Election Day! Let’s talk about how they did in all three debates and where this leaves them in the polls.
https://third-presidential-debate.eventbrite.com
TED talk
Time: Tuesday, October 25, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Instructor: Christopher McDonnell, English Language Fellow
In our Ted Talk Club we will work together to view, discuss and celebrate creative ideas. As a group we will identify our passions and ask ourselves, what makes our heart beat faster? We will explore the ideas that we are passionate about by diving into activities that expand our curiosity. What are you waiting for? Join us and bring friends!
Short Story Club
Time: Tuesday, October 25, 5:30 – 7:00p.m
Instructor: Cody Titensor, U.S. Consulate Officer
Come join our Short Story Club, where we will read and discuss the story which set in beautiful, tropical Hawaii. This story from the year 1908 is about growing up, falling in love, and the challenges created by racism in our society . Read the story here: https://americanliterature.com/author/jack-london/short-story/aloha-oe
We encourage you all to read this short story before our next session. Bring your friends and questions!
The Electoral College
Time: Wednesday, October 26, 5:30 – 7:00pm
Speaker: Andrew Riplinger, U.S. Consular Officer
Do you know how the votes are counted on Election Day? Come learn about the Electoral College and the process for deciding which candidate wins each state. You’ll even have the chance to “vote” for your favorite candidate!
https://electoral-college.eventbrite.com
Discussion about U.S. Community Colleges
Time: Thursday, October 27, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Speakers: Representatives of 10 community colleges
Community colleges in the U.S. are seen as an attractive option for students who are concerned about the financial commitments needed for studying in the U.S., or for those students who might not achieve high enough grades to be admitted directly to a university for their freshman year. These are two common reasons that Vietnamese students note when selecting the community college pathway in the U.S. But, there is a lot more to consider when looking at the options between applying and studying at a community college compared to applying and studying at a university. All students and parents are invited to attend this workshop to learn more about what opportunities are offered through this higher education pathway. This will be an interactive event, so it is a wonderful opportunity to ask questions, or get clarification on information that you might have heard regarding community colleges, but are not certain about.
Halloween film screening: Hocus Pocus
Time: Thursday, October 27, 5:00 pm
Come celebrate Halloween with us at the American Center! Enjoy spooky decorations, snacks, and a screening of the classic film “Hocus Pocus.” Bring your friends and enjoy an evening of U.S. culture and Halloween fun!
Perfecting the College Essay
Time: October 28, 2:00-4:00p.m.
Speaker: Christie Ruggieri, Assistant Director for Admissions, Drexel University
The application essay is a great way for colleges and universities to truly get to know you. Meet with an admissions representative from Drexel University to learn how to perfect yours. She will provide tips, offer advice and bring examples so that you are fully prepared to write the best essay possible!
