Friday, February 03, 2006

Wilmington, N.C. - The University of North Carolina Wilmington Office of International Programs (OIP) is launching a drive to help students take the initial step toward an international educational experience - obtaining a passport.

Any UNCW student who participates in the passport drive or who already possesses a valid U.S. passport is eligible to enter a contest to win free international airfare (up to $1,000). After receiving a passport, students can register their passport numbers with the OIP. The drawing will take place near the end of the spring 2006 semester during the study abroad pre-departure orientation. The contest deadline is in late April, the day before orientation.

The OIP will be distributing passport information during UNCW's 13th annual intercultural week (Feb.6-11).

The OIP is responsible for implementing and coordinating the University's commitment to internationalization. This office provides international student and scholar services including immigration, orientation, and international recruitment. Programs range from short term study abroad to semester and year long experiences. Adrian Sherman serves as the Assistant Provost and Director of the Office of International Programs. For more information on the UNCW OIP passport drive, see - www.uncw.edu/intprogs/.

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