Activities & Events
The association holds regular meetings for the membership, at which issues of importance to all study abroad programmes in the United Kingdom are discussed and information distributed. The list of events is updated on a regular basis and the association makes every attempt to organise at least 7 meetings per year in addition to the Annual General Meeting, which takes place in October.
UP AND COMING EVENTS
First Meeting and Welcome Back Social
with the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) from the US Embassy
Tuesday 16th September 2008, 4:00-6:00 p.m.
David Kidd, Regional Security Officer at the US Embassy in London, will give a presentation about the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC). OSAC is a Federal Advisory Committee with a U.S. Government Charter to promote security cooperation between American business and private sector interests worldwide and the U.S. Department of State. The UK Country Council meets in London several times a year and is comprised of a number of committees devoted to security issues for different business sectors, including a newly established education group. OSAC membership may be beneficial to members with an interest in preparation and training for worldwide security issues and crisis management planning.
The meeting will be followed by our traditional Welcome Back Social.
Annual General Meeting
Friday, 10th October
Time and venue TBA
Please enter this date in your diaries. The Executive Committee is currently working on details and members will be informed in due course regarding the agenda items and speaker(s).
[for more details on venue and RSVP requirements please visit the Members' Pages]
PAST EVENTS
| 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 |
PAST WORKSHOP AND EVENT DETAILS 2008
Work Placements and the Points Based System
held Thursday 19 June 2008
Over 50 members of the Association attended a review and question session on the Points Based System [PBS]. The main topic of discussion was the status of work placement students under Tier 4 of the PBS in the light of Suzanne Barnes’ communication of May 13th 2008 (available on the News page). All questions raised were sent to Suzanne Barnes. AASAP will publish Suzanne’s answers as soon as we receive them. Colleagues also briefly discussed the process of registering as a Tier 2 sponsor and BUNAC representatives discussed the possibility of Tier 5 ‘Youth Mobility’ coming to the rescue of work placement programmes that do not neatly fit Tier 4’s 50-50 work/study split.
The Association remains in waiting mode. The Tier 4 Statement of Intent is due to be published in late July and UK Borders has promised an answer to the ‘visiting academics’ question by the ‘late summer’; that is, will they come in under Tier 2, Tier 5 [‘Temporary Workers’] or maybe even Tier 1 depending on the circumstances?
We also await a promised meeting with Suzanne Barnes.
In the meantime, colleagues with a UK base are advised to pursue Tier 2 licensing if they intend to bring faculty or administrators into the country as migrant workers after November 2008, when Tier 2 goes live.
Absentee Voting in the November Election: US Embassy
held Tuesday 3rd June 2008
In order to prepare for the upcoming November elections, Wendy Knolls, Vice Consul of the US Embassy, offered members a presentation on the procedures for overseas voting that included an opportunity to ask questions on how best to advise students on applying for and using their absentee ballot. Information on application deadlines and state-specific instructions is available at www.fvap.gov
AASAP/UK visit to the Geffrye Museum in Shoreditch
held Thursday 15th May 2008
The Geffrye Museum is one of London’s most friendly and enjoyable museums and is unique in specialising in the furniture and domestic interiors of the urban middle classes. Our visit included a self-guided tour of the Museum, an introductory talk by the museum’s Deputy Director Christine Lalumia and tea in the restaurant. Our members are welcome to book group visits, attend the occasional evening presentations and even organise a peek into the alms-houses themselves.
Student Counselling: Identifying and Dealing with Student Problems
held Monday 14th April 2008
In response to the Survey of Members' Interests, this meeting was devoted to issues surrounding students experiencing distress as a result of separation, difficulties with adapting to life abroad, and existing mental health conditions. Hillary Ratna, M.A, a BACP Senior Accredited Counsellor/Psychotherapist, offered a presentation including advice and guidance for study abroad staff about identifying students in need, understanding best practice, and offering support and assistance.
The City of London – financial capital of the world
held Wednesday 2nd April 2008
Jeremy Fern, City Affairs Office of the City of London and a member of the team that promotes London as a financial centre, talked about the history and current make-up of the City of London. The presentation, given in front of the impressive three-dimensional map of the City of London, was followed by a question and answer session.
Annual Meeting with Staff from British Universities
held Friday 15th February 2008
The annual meeting for AASAP/UK members running direct-enrolled programmes was held once again to allow us to swap notes with our BUTEX colleagues representing UK universities that receive our visiting US students. Much of the discussion focused on immigration changes and their likely impact on US students enrolled in British universities, particularly those wishing to either intern or work while here.
Planning for a Flu-Pandemic – from the NHS and the Health Protection Agency
held Wednesday 30th January 2008
The first meeting of the new year concerned how best to plan for the event of a flu-pandemic. The session was led by representatives from the Camden NHS Trust and the Health Protection Agency and addressed questions such as: how likely is a pandemic? What would the consequences be in London and what would the health authorities do (specifically in Camden)? What would you do if 25% of your staff and students were hit by a new strain of flu all at the same time?
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PAST WORKSHOP AND EVENT DETAILS 2007
End of Semester Social
held 6th December 2007
We celebrated the end of yet another term with wonderful colleagues at the venue some might consider the AASAP Annex...Truckles Wine Bar in Bloomsbury. We hope you have a wonderful holiday and look forward to seeing you in 2008.
The Devolving Relationship Between Higher Education Institutions and Students
held Friday 16th November 2007
Mr. David Palfreyman, Bursar and Fellow of New College, Oxford, who is also founder and co-director of the Oxford Centre for Higher Education Policy Studies (Oxcheps), presented on issues of tort liability, contract law and the different approaches in the UK and the USA to student claims against higher education institutions. The presentation was followed by Evensong in the chapel of New College, and dinner.
Meeting with the British Accreditation Council:
The Accreditation Process for Study Abroad Providers
held Friday 2nd November 2007
Dr Stephen Vickers and Dr Gina Hobson from the BAC gave a short presentation and answered questions about the accreditation process, specifically in relation to the study abroad sector. Associate members interested in pursuing UK accreditation were in attendance. The meeting was prompted by the announcement that education providers under the Points Based System for immigration will need to prove they are accredited (cf the News page item dated July 2007).
Annual General Meeting
held Friday 12th October 2007
Our 2007 AGM included a presentation by Suzanne Barnes of the Home Office with an update on the Points Based System. In particular, she was asked to speak about the ‘Study through Work’ subset of Tier 4 (work placements/internships), as well as the mechanisms for inclusion on the Home Office Sponsor Register. A brief business meeting ensued, followed by lunch.
The afternoon session was led by Jude Carroll from Oxford Brookes University, who spoke about plagiarism, a relevant topic in our battle to fight academic dishonesty. Our day together finished with a wine reception.
The Metropolitan Police: Information and Advice
held Monday 18th September 2007
The first meeting of the 2007-2008 academic year focussed on the topic of 'Crime and Student Safety' in the UK . The Metropolitan Police discussed and answered questions on the following topics: (a) arrest and court procedures: what happens when students commit crimes and are arrested; (b) what happens when students are the victims of crime; (c) what types of crime students are most likely to experience; (d) tips for avoiding becoming victims of such crimes; (e) where are the crime hot spots in London; (f) what should students do when they are witnesses of crime.
Colleagues were invited to share examples of good practice they have adopted and any relevant experiences they or their students have had. Under topic (c) we asked the Police to talk about the terrorist threat in the UK in general and in London in particular.
The meeting was followed by our usual start-of-the-year 'Welcome Back Social'
End of Year Social
held Monday 11th June 2007
Members met at Truckle's Wine Bar for the annual summer social.
Cultural Visit: Ben Franklin House and Summer Social
held 17th May 2007
Our cultural visit was held at the Ben Franklin House and was conveniently combined with the annual summer social. Two separate tours of the Ben Franklin House were offered, and the social was held at the Players Bar. Both were well attended, and members had a relaxing and enjoyable time.
Changes to the Immigration Rules
held 9th May 2007
This session covered the recent changes to the Immigration Rules, as noted on the AASAP/UK News page (please consult the entry, because it has been updated). Suzanne Barnes from the Border and Immigration Agency (BIA) and George Anderson from the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) were in attendance. Suzanne and George explained the changes and their impact on USA study abroad programmes, and responded to a large number of questions put forward by AASAP/UK members regarding this issue. Their responses are now included on the AASAP/UK News page.
The Millennial Student and the Helicopter Parent
held 24th April 2007
This session covered the definition of the Millennial Student (cf. the Millennial Student Project, University of Arizona ) and the Helicopter Parent, and our response to their specific needs and expectations. These students, born roughly between 1980 and 1994, have a unique profile of abilities as well as deficiencies, and their parents, sometimes considered hovering and over-involved, add a new dimension to the issues faced by study abroad programmes. Topics included student expectations, our obligations in accordance with FERPA, our duty of care and the idea of ‘in loco parentis,’ and what we can and cannot divulge to parents. The presentation included small group discussions as well as time for questions and answers.
Britain for Beginners – Defining a Nation for Study Abroad
held 24th March 2007
The vexed question of what constitutes “Britishness” is rarely absent from the headlines and politicians’ lips in Britain today. This one-day conference considered how students of Britain access and understand this debate. Papers included aspects of teaching and the study of “Britishness”. How is Britain presented within Study Abroad programmes? How is national identity presented to natives, immigrants and to the rest of the world? The conference, held at the University of Evansville’s UK campus at Harlaxton Manor in Lincolnshire, included presentations, lunch, a tour of Harlaxton Manor and a concert by the National Trust Out of Silence Choir. The keynote speaker was Angus Hawkins, Director for International Programmes (Department for Continuing Education) at Oxford University .
Meeting with Staff from British Universities
held 21st February 2007
A group of around 25 AASAP/UK and BUTEX members met at University College London to discuss topics of mutual interest, including: orientations for January arrivals, assessments and exam resits for JYA students, medical services for students in England for less than 6 months and the increasing demand for short-term study abroad courses. Several members commented afterwards that they had found the opportunity to meet together very useful, so it’s anticipated that a similar session will be offered next spring. BUTEX is an affiliate member of AASAP/UK and represents UK universities which receive large numbers of study abroad students.
Is this Legal? Copying, Scanning and Readers
held 30th January 2007
The question of what is legal to photocopy and what is copyright infringement is something all universities wrestle with. We prepare everything from course packs and readers to scanning articles for posting to a class listserv or Blackboard. It is tempting to treat the reproduction of class material as a 'grey area.'
In the UK, copyright issues for higher education institutions are covered by the Copyright Licensing Agency (CLA). A representative from the CLA discussed exactly what is covered by a licence, the cost of obtaining one, and recent changes made in the CLA remit reflecting the increased use of digital media. For those whose institutions already hold such licences it was an opportunity to ask specific questions about what copyright licenses cover and, perhaps more importantly, what they do not. For those institutions that do not have a copyright licence, the meeting addressed reasons why it is advisable to obtain one.
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PAST WORKSHOP AND EVENT DETAILS 2006
Home Office Consultation
held 7th December 2006
This meeting covered the Home Office consultation on the charging regime for the Points Based System of immigration. The Home Office will undoubtedly announce a change in the fee structure for visas, and stakeholders must respond to the consultation by 22 December. The consultation document was explained and discussed, and AASAP members were urged to submit individual responses. The AASAP response appears on the News page.
End of Semester Social
held 6th December 2006
The annual end of semester and holiday social was held at Truckles Wine Bar in Pied Bull Yard. The event was very well attended, and offered members the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing evening with no business agenda. The annual holiday raffle included six prizes donated by various shops and organizations in Alnwick, Northumberland.
Transport for London Meeting
held 22nd November 2006
Two representatives from Transport for London responsible for the running of the student discount scheme were in attendance. This session allowed TfL to hear about US study abroad issues and concerns with respect to the Student Photocard scheme. It was also an opportunity for AASAP/UK members to learn about the administrative and logistical systems within TfL that explain some of the rejections of applications and delays in processing applications.Fifteen Years of AASAP/UK
held 15th November 2006
At the invitation of the US Ambassador Robert Tuttle and his wife, AASAP/UK held a reception at Winfield House, the London home of the Ambassador. The reception was a celebration of 15 years of the association, International Education Week, and 2006, the Year of Study Abroad. The event was also an opportunity to introduce Lord Acton, Honorary President of AASAP/UK, to the membership. More than 140 people were in attendance, including members, invited guests, and sponsors of the event.
Annual General Meeting
held 6th October 2006
Suzanne Barnes and Mike Taylor from the Immigration & Nationality Directorate spoke in the morning about the Points-Based System and practical issues affecting the US study abroad sector. Carolyn Campbell from the Quality Assurance Agency and Stephen Vickers from the British Accreditation Council spoke in the afternoon about quality assurance and the accreditation process for higher education in the UK. Both sessions included ample time for questions and answers.
Stress Management Workshop
held 21st September 2006
This meeting explored study abroad workplace stress and practical coping strategies. A relaxation specialist and masseuse were in attendance.
Summer Social
held 8th June 2006
An unusually hot and sunny day allowed members to relax al fresco at Truckle's Wine Bar for the annual summer social.
Managed Migration: Proposed Changes to Immigration
held 9th May 2006
Elaine Breckenridge, Laurie Koehler and Bill Sheasgreen led this session on the Points-Based System of immigration proposed by the Home Office. A review of current Immigration Rules as they apply to study abroad was followed by a summary of the proposed changes. Members were also informed about recent meetings and correspondence with the Home Office and other stakeholders. The meeting was very well attended and concluded with a lively question and answer session.
Cultural Visit: London's Docklands
held 25th April 2006
AASAP colleagues enjoyed an informative walking tour of London’s Docklands with an expert Blue Badge Guide. For hundreds of years the river Thames was the gateway to London, and the docks were essential to the trade and industry of the entire country. The tour included a trip to the Docklands Museum and ended with a social at a bar around Canary Wharf.
Forms, Forms, Forms!
held 15th March 2006
AASAP members shared useful information about the many forms required of study abroad students and administrators. Individual presentations were devoted to Prior Entry Clearance (VAF1), Work Permit Applications, Council Tax, Data Protection, US Embassy registration, Transport for London (Student Photocard), Criminal Records, and the FLRS. The presentations were accompanied by Powerpoint and all attendees received an information pack.
Annual Meeting with BUTEX and British Universities
held 16th February 2006
This meeting offered AASAP members who enrol students directly into British universities the opportunity to discuss a range of topics of mutual concern with their colleagues in international offices. The meeting was open to all AASAP/UK members, but was of special importance to direct entry and hybrid programmes. The meeting was very well attended and included BUTEX members from as far afield as York and Leeds.
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PAST WORKSHOP AND EVENT DETAILS 2005
End of Semester Social
held 15th December 2005
Once again, AASAP/UK hosted the Annual Holiday Celebration at Truckle
This social event was a great opportunity for us to get together and celebrate a wonderful Fall 2005 semester in Study Abroad.
Gender in US Study Abroad in the UK
held 8th November 2005
This session posed the question “where are the young men in US study abroad?” In the last ten years, the percentage of women in US study abroad has fluctuated between 62% and 65% with as many as 70% in some London-based US programmes. The preponderance of young women has implications for our staffing policies and our student affairs activities. Our meeting discussed some of the explanations given for this imbalance as well as gender imbalances within Europe’s Erasmus. Can we do anything to get a few more men on our programmes? What marketing strategies can we adopt? Or are we on a losing wicket when trying to bring more US males to the UK? AASAP/UK has proposed a session on this topic for the NAFSA Annual Conference in Montreal to be held May 2006.
Annual General Meeting
held 7th October 2005
Dominic Scott, Chief Executive of UKCOSA, was our guest speaker in the morning. In the afternoon representatives from Withers and SITE led a workshop on issues of governance, employment law, risk management, and liability issues. Information packets were posted to all members in early September.
Welcome Back Meeting and Social
held 22nd September 2005
The first meeting of the academic year was devoted to emergency planning and safety, prompted by the security issues raised by the London terrorist attacks on 7 July 2005 . We were fortunate to have three guest speakers: PC Turner and PC Percil from the Metropolitan Police, and M. André Goodfriend, First Secretary and Consul (American Citizen Services) of the US Embassy Consular Section in London .
Study abroad administrators were given valuable information about the services of the Met and the US Embassy, and were also advised about various mechanisms for administrators and students to ensure adequate provisions are being made for safety and security. The minutes of the meeting are posted under ‘Meeting Minutes’ on the member services page.
Following the Welcome Back meeting, members and the guest speakers met at International Students House for a wine reception. Attendance was healthy and discussions were lively.
Cultural and Social Visit
held 17th May 2005
The Freud Museum was the venue of the Association’s annual cultural visit and end of year social. The museum, Sigmund Freud’s last home, is now a cultural and research centre. The visit started with an introductory lecture, and afterwards everyone had time to tour the house. The cultural visit was followed by the end of year social, including refreshments and light snacks. We were blessed with good weather, which allowed us to use the museum’s garden. The event was well attended and enjoyed by all.
The Death of a Student: Dealing with a Crisis
held 18th April 2005
This meeting was devoted to the death of a student on the University of Maryland programme in November 2004. Maryland’s London Director Laurie Koehler shared the particulars and the issues of managing a crisis with respect to the family, the administration and the students on the programme. The presentation covered the handling of affairs with the family, US Embassy, police, coroner, and funeral home; the return of the student’s personal effects, organising counselling sessions for the remaining students, and arranging a memorial service in London. How to set priorities and deal not only with matters surrounding the student death, but also with the day-to-day running of the university study abroad programme were also included. The presentation was followed by questions and answers and a discussion of the role of the London office in an unusual crisis situation.
Making Connections with British Culture
held 16th March 2005
Participants on island programs, especially if they are London based, often face a challenge if they wish to make authentic connections with British culture in the space of a semester. Staff often want to provide opportunities to bridge this gap and help their students get the most out of their study abroad experience.
This session looked at practical ways that members have used to introduce students to aspects of British life and culture they might not otherwise encounter. Presentations were given by Community Service Volunteers, do-it.org, the University of London Union and a member of the Association of Professional Tourist Guides (‘Blue Badge’ guides).
AASAP/UK intends to prepare a new resource for members, the Social Cultural Directory. This will be in addition to the Library Directory and Faculty Directory, and will include a listing of opportunities with contacts to facilitate student integration with British culture. Information should be forwarded to info@aasapuk.org
Direct Entry Programme Issues
held 23rd February 2005
This session was specifically aimed at programmes enrolling students directly into British universities, although all AASAP/UK members were welcome. Topics on the agenda included 1) Issues with pre-entry clearance versus getting stamps on arrival; 2) the meaning of "Alternative Assessment" for semester only students; 3) different workloads at different UK institutions and how to justify this to home campuses in the US; 4) transcripts and the time it takes to receive them; and 5) contact hours.
Colleagues from BUTEX were in attendance and discussions were lively, productive and valuable for all concerned.
Keeping in Touch with the Home Campus
held 10th February 2005
This session was devoted to issues of communication and understanding between the UK and USA offices.
Topics during this session included 1) what can be discerned about ‘there’ from ‘here;’ 2) communicating about ‘here’ to ‘there;’ and 3) campus visits and campus visitors.
The panel and discussion was led by four professionals from four member institutions: Dr. Laura Holt (Notre Dame), Dr. Meredith Hyde (Syracuse University), Dr. Eric Sneddon (Central University of Iowa) and Dr. Donna Vinter (Grinnell College).
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PAST WORKSHOP AND EVENT DETAILS 2004
Pre-Christmas Drinks Social
held 8th December 2004
AASAP/UK hosted the Annual Holiday Celebration at Truckle's Wine Bar in Pied Bull Yard. The association provided drinks and nibbles and a festive environment for AASAP/UK members. We also held a raffle and gave away three £10 book vouchures, three London mugs full of chocolate and two bottles of wine. This was a great opportunity for us to unwind as an association and celebrate another successful semester in Study Abroad.
Student Services
held 9th November 2004
This session focused on designing and delivering student services that address the development of the “whole” student while supporting the academic mission of each institution. We examined orientation, programming, pastoral care/accountability, culture shock/re-entry issues, field trips, counselling, crisis management, and discipline. All in attendance shared views, opinions and institutional programmes that they are currently implementing and have demonstrated solid, strong results.
Annual General Meeting
held 8th October 2004
Our AGM included two highlights in addition to normal association business. The first was a presentation by a representative of the Department for Education and Skills regarding the newly-created Registry of Education and Training (Learning) Providers. This timely topic was followed by the unveiling of our exciting new website, designed to maximise the resources of AASAP/UK for its many members.
Welcome Back Social at the Ithaca College London Centre
held 23rd September 2004
Our members demonstrated once again that social opportunities provide an ideal way of sharing information and resources. Many new members were welcomed into the fold of AASAP/UK.
New Directors' Forum at the Ithaca College London Centre
held 23rd September 2004
Record attendance turned out for the traditional season opener when experienced UK programme staff go over key issues and answer newcomers' questions. Two guest presentations were made as well: Ryan Lorenz spoke about anti-Americanism and the study abroad student whilst Cassandra Pittman informed us about the 2004 US Presidential Election Party to be held in central London on 2nd November.
Summer Social at the British Library
held 3rd June 2004
The Association held its “summer/end of the academic year” social in Meeting Room “A” of the British Library. Coffee, tea and a selection of wonderful afternoon tea cakes were on the menu. The social gave us an opportunity to look back on the academic year and to share ideas for the next year.
Cultural Visit to the British Library
held 3rd June 2004
The British Library hosted the Association’s annual cultural visit this year. The new National Library, officially opened by the Queen in 1998, has three component parts: the British Museum Library, the Patent Office Library, and the National Central Library for Science and Technology. In the 1970s the Government purchased a British Rail goods yard adjacent to St Pancras Station in the London Borough of Camden as a home for the new National Library. The government chose Colin St John Wilson to be the architect of the project. As befitting the nation’s top library, which draws researchers and visitors from all over the world, the building is a stunning example of late 20th century architecture. Guides told the story of the library, the inevitable run over of costs, the inevitable delay in opening, the failure to build the final 1/3 of the building at the rear of the Library, and much else while leading us through the public areas of the Library. The British Library is clearly a state of the art location for research. Even better news is that it is now somewhat easier to obtain a Reader’s Pass than it was in the old days when the British Museum housed the Library. At the end of the tour, Professor Philip Davies of the Eccles Centre for American Studies, which is based at the BL, gave a short talk on the Eccles Centre, its lecture series, its conferences, and his plans for the future.
Issues Relevant to Direct Entry, Exchange and Hybrid Programmes
held 6th May 2004 at College Hall WC1
Colleagues from the International Offices at British Universities, from BUTEX [British Universities Transatlantic Exchange Association] and AASAP met to discuss the issues facing study abroad in the UK [e.g., falling numbers] and transatlantic exchange. After discussing the various routes Americans take to study in Britain [i.e., as study abroad students on island, direct-entry and/or hybrid programmes, or as full time undergraduates at British universities] the meeting split into focus groups to discuss (a) how we can improve what we do for our students and for UK partner institutions, (b) how we can work together with BUTEX to improve the services we provide our students, and (c) how AASAP, BUTEX and International Offices can work together to encourage more American undergraduates to choose the UK as the destination of their study abroad experience. Colleagues decided that the session worked well and that we should meet annually on these themes. The meeting should come earlier in the academic year so that some of the ideas generated in the discussion might be implemented in the following year.
Internships/Work Placements and the Law
held 24th March 2004 at International Students House (ISH), LONDON W1
This meeting brought members up to date on the Executive's discussion with the National Minimum Wage team at the Department for Trade and Industry. The NMW Team has promised a "steer" on the issue of national minimim wage payments for American college/university students undertaking a work placement or internship in the UK. It will be left to AASAP/UK and individual members of the Association to consult their own lawyers after receiving the DTI steer. Discussion at the meeting focussed on whether or not there was a "contract of employment" in our work placement/internship programmes and whether or not US students were a special case as they were in fact full-time students at American university centres in the UK and might therefore benefit from the same exemption from the national minimum wage legislation as enjoyed by British university students. Members also discussed the legal issues that impact on summer internship programmes. Throughout the meeting, invited representatives from UKCOSA and the Department for Education and Skills provided clarification of legal points and answered members questions.
Immigration Issues
held 24th February 2004 at American Intercontinental University, LONDON W1
This session followed up from the successful October 2003 AGM discussion on immigration, especially since the new regulations came into force November 13th. A range of guests attended, including representatives from UKCOSA and the Immigration and Nationality Directorate (IND). Our discussion was lively and informative.
Whole Student Programming
held 26th January 2004 at College Hall, LONDON WC1
This session focused on the physical, mental and cross cultural aspects of the US study abroad experience. Invited speakers and AASAP members exchanged ideas regarding good practice, good locations, good resources and good people in the London area.
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PAST WORKSHOP AND EVENT DETAILS 2003
Holiday Social
held 15th December 2003 at Truckles Wine Bar
AASAP hosted its annual December with wine and nibbles, a holiday raffle, and [as ever] good conversation aplenty. Membership turnout was excellent.
Annual General Meeting
held 10th October 2003 at the FSU Study Centre
The Annual General Meeting started with a presentation by Ian Full and Jessica Rushworth of UKvisas, an office run jointly by the Home Office and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office of the British government. The lecture was a valuable summary of the EU-wide Residents Permits scheme and the new entry clearance requirements that take effect on 13 November 2003. Following the lecture the membership approved the revised by-laws and elected the Executive Committee for the coming year.
Welcome Back Social
held 18th September 2003 at Ithaca College,
This annual social provided an opportunity to visit with colleagues and prepare for the academic year ahead. Bill's wine selection was gladly received.
New Directors/Staff Forum
held 18th September 2003 at Ithaca College
This orientation for new study abroad directors and their support staff in London covered a wide array of topics relevant to new study abroad staff in the UK. Subjects covered included housing, internships, health, and safety.
Counter-Terrorism in the United Kingdom
held 8th September 2003 at International Students House W1
The Metropolitan Police delivered a session on counter-terrorism to a packed room of AASAP delegates. Some lessons were learned from the Met, including the fact that US students are no more a target for terrorism than anyone else in this country...and that clear lines of communication are important when dealing with any real or perceived emergency.
Spring Social
held 13th May 2003 at the UNO MUNDO Bar, International Students House
The social importance of AASAP came to the fore once again as we enjoyed fine company and refreshments in our bid to celebrate the end of another semester.
Safety and Security at British Universities
held 10th April 2003 at the Cruciform Building WC1
This session was aimed at direct entry programmes which enrol their students in British universities. Approximately ten colleagues met and focussed on safety/security/emergency planning in the British university sector.
Special Session on the War in Iraq
held 20th March 2003 at IES
Nearly 50 colleagues met to discuss the potential impact of the war and its consequences on study abroad programmes in the United Kingdom. A consensus seemed to emerge that a) it was unlikely any programme would be forced to close, and b) it is prudent to devise a management plan to deal with potential crises that may effect our programmes. We agreed that communication between programmes is essential at times like these.
UK/EU Employment Legislation
held 11th March 2003 at Syracuse University's Royalty Studios
A lawyer from the firm Bryan Cave spoke with us about legal issues and answered our questions.
Benchmarking Internships
held 23rd January 2003 at the Foundation for International Education
This session was devoted to sharing members' understanding of what constitutes good practice. We shared perspectives and learned from each other by examining our wide diversity of practices and processes. The panel discussion included employers and providers from the American university programmes community in London with input both from the panel and from the floor.
Internship Emergency Meeting
held 14th January 2003 at Ithaca College London Centre
The Association met to discuss a recent letter from IND [Immigration and Nationality Directorate of the Home Office] informing us that, from February 2003 on, all students on US study abroad programmes who were undertaking a work placement [British speak] or internship [US speak] will (a) have to enter on a TWES [Training and Work Experience Scheme] visa and (b) will be subject to national minimun wage legislation, i.e., their "employers" will have to pay them the national minimum wage. We decided to meet with the Home Office to ask for a 'stay of execution' while formulating a strategy to secure an official attitude more favourable to our study abroad students. More details on this issue can be obtained by emailing Bill Sheasgreen.
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PAST WORKSHOP AND EVENT DETAILS 2002
Holiday Social
held 10th December 2002 at Truckles Wine Bar
The Association met for drinks to celebrate the end of yet another term.
The Aftermath of a Crisis: Student Death on a Programme
held 27th November 2002 at Syracuse University (London)
Syracuse's Director Peter Leuner and Assistant Director Susan Strauss talked us through the week in September this year when one of their students was killed in a traffic accident, sharing lessons they learned as well as advice on how best to manage such a crisis.
Annual General Meeting
held 11th October 2002 at the FSU Study Centre
Our AGM focussed on AASAP/UK's past year as well as its future. Several executive committee positions were up for election and we now have some new faces on the Executive Committee. AASAP also made two important decisions which should enable it to better meet the needs of its members in the future: re-assess the level of members' dues and hire a part-time administrative assistant. Both these moves should allow AASAP/UK to do more for its members...and do it better. Please email Bill Sheasgreen if you wish to know more about these exciting developments.
Welcome Back Social
held 19th September 2002
This annual social was held at Ithaca College and provided an opportunity to visit with colleagues and prepare for the academic year ahead. Bill's wine selection was superb as usual.
New Directors/Staff Forum
held 19th September 2002
This orientation for new study abroad directors and their support staff in London covered a wide array of topics relevant to new study abroad staff in the UK. Housing, internships, health, and safety dominated much of our conversation.
Midsummer Night's Social
held 21st June 2002
Several colleagues met at Truckle's Wine Bar for a long cool drink to mark the end of the academic year 2001-2002, AASAP/UK's tenth anniversary year. Most of the discussion was about holiday plans; however, we did have time to talk about the forthcoming BUTEX conference in Swansea at which AASAP/UK intended to run a session, and about internships and immigration.
Issues faced by Direct Entry Programmes: Concerns, Challenges, and Opportunities
held 23rd April 2002
This session provided an opportunity for programme directors and administrators to network, discuss issues of common concern, and raise awareness of these issues to the wider membership.
Cultural Visit to the British Museum
held 14th March 2002
This informative session was hosted by John Reeve, Head of the British Museum Education Service, who alerted us to a large number of opportunities [facility rental, receptions, orientations, special lectures, etc.] for the US university sector at the BM. For further information, email John.
Drop-in Talk Shop
held 1st March 2002
This session was attended by members of the Executive and provided an opportunity for colleagues to chat about any issues of concern.
US Law and Study Abroad
held 21st February 2002
Florida State University Study Centre
Maureen Powers from IES spoke about US law and its applicability to students on US study abroad programmes in the United Kingdom.
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PAST WORKSHOP AND EVENT DETAILS 2001
10th Anniversary Celebration
held 14th November 2001
US Embassy London
Our celebration was attended by nearly 200 guests, including the US Ambassador to London, the member of Parliament currently chairing the House Select Committee on Education, and dozens of study abroad and international education professionals and well-wishers. The reception also marked International Education Week and was officially supported by the US Embassy in London.
Annual General Meeting
held 12th October 2001
Attendance at our 10th anniversary AGM reached record levels. Most of the morning session was devoted to a presentation on "new world for study abroad after September 11th", which raised plenty of discussion as we shared our concerns, hopes, and crisis management preparations. During the afternoon we took a nostalgic look back at our first ten years as well as a brief look into the future.
New Directors Forum
Held 20th September 2001
This orientation for new study abroad directors and their support staff in London covered a wide array of topics relevant to new study abroad staff in the UK. Much of the discussion revolved around responding to security issues raised by the 11th September attack on the US.
Welcome Back Social
Held 20th September 2001
This annual social provided an opportunity to visit with colleagues and regret the passing of summer.
New Immigration Regulations
Held 26th April 2001
This workshop explored the implications of Section V of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, which came into effect on May 1st. Section V of this Act regulates the provision of immigration advice and services by any individual or organisation in the United Kingdom. Some AASAP/UK members may need to register with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner [OISC] for an exemption from these regulations. For more information please refer to the official website at www.oisc.gov.uk Special thanks to Clive Saville, Chief Executive of UKCOSA, for this guest presentation.
Museum of London Visit
Held 28th March 2001
This visit included a presentation about the range of activities which the Museum can offer our students, including object handling sessions, guided tours, and lectures.
Money, Banking, Costs
Held 27th February 2001
This session explored issues related to programme banking, student banking, budgets, cheap London, and hidden/unexpected costs.
Evaluations: just a waste of time?
Held 31st January 2001
This well-attended session provoked serious discussion about the use of programme and faculty evaluations. Several ideas were shared and all members were given an information pack with more than a dozen programme evaluations.
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PAST WORKSHOP AND EVENT DETAILS 2000
Holiday Social
Held 6th December 2000
We celebrated the successful conclusion of Autumn 2000 at Truckles Wine Bar in Bloomsbury. This year's social included a raffle prize.
Supporting Students with Important Health Needs
Held 1st December 2000
This informal discussion focussed on supporting students with important health (physical and mental) needs. This "Friday afternoon talk-shop" was held at the Marlborough Hotel in Bloomsbury.
Annual General Meeting
Held 20th October 2000
The AGM included a forum on the "Impact of our Programmes and Students on the Community" as well as an afternoon session on academic standards. The AGM also dedicated some time to AASAP/UK business matters, including elections to the Executive Committee. Hats off to the American Intercontinental University for hosting our AGM once again. Thank you!
Welcome Back Social
Held 21st September 2000
We began the new academic year with the annual AASAP/UK Welcome Back Social, held at the Ithaca College London Centre.
New Director and Staff Orientation
Held 21st September 2000
This orientation for new study abroad directors and their support staff in London and the UK included discussions on a wide array of relevant topics.
Theatre Museum Visit & Social
Held 8th June 2000
The Theatre Museum kindly hosted an evening for members of AASAP/UK, including a presentation about the history of the museum and the type of sessions that they offer to educational groups.
Maximising London
Held 25th April 2000
This session highlighted useful resources regarding London and all it offers to study abroad students.
Orientation and Re-Entry Seminar
Held 30th March 2000
This popular and well-attended session focused on sharing ideas and activities related to orientation procedures and leaving routines.
Efficient Use of the World Wide Web
Scheduled for 28th February 2000
Cancelled due to inadequate number of attendees.
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PAST WORKSHOP AND EVENT DETAILS 1999
Holiday Social
Held 8th December 1999
AASAPers met at Truckles Wine Bar in Bloomsbury for mince pies, mulled wine, and good cheer. This social proved to be an important stress releaser and let several of us compare notes about the highs and lows of autumn semester 1999.
Annual General Meeting
Held 15th October 1999
The morning sessions were dedicated to AASAP/UK business, including elections to the Executive Committee. Several new members were elected to the Committee; a complete list can be found on this website. The afternoon session included a presentation by TJ Dowling, the Cultural Attache at the US Embassy in London.
Welcome Back Social
Held 16th September 1999
We began the new academic year with the annual AASAP/UK Welcome Back Social, which gave us an opportunity to visit with colleagues, swap war stories about orientation challenges, and exchange ideas and resources for the coming year.
New Director's Meeting
Held 16th September 1999
This annual workshop served as an ideal orientation for new study abroad directors in London and the UK. Several "old hands" facilitated discussions covering a wide array of topics, including issues related to professional and personal adjustment, faculty, libraries and academic resources, student programming, housing, internships, liability and safety, health, banking, and travel.
Day Trip to Boulogne, France
Professional Networking and Social Excursion
Held 7th May 1999
Crisis Management: Building an Effective Plan for your Study Abroad Institution
Held 14th April 1999
Globe Education: Introduction to Programmes and Tour of Shakespeare's Globe
Held 10th March 1999
Click here for complete minutes about the various educational options offered by the Globe to AASAP/UK institutions and students.
BUNAC Advising Workshop
Held 5th February 1999
Click here for complete minutes from this informative workshop about UK work possibilities for US students.
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