Imagine this: In 1970 Margaret Thatcher and your family have just had dinner. You are discussing the current state of affairs in England and Ms. Thatcher, the current shadow Secretary for Education in the UK, is talking about labor strife and the coal miners. Your daughter plans to study in London the following year and Ms. Thatcher invites her to be her guest on a visit to Parliament and to meet some of her Conservative Party colleagues.

Your membership in the Institute of International Education/International Visitor Program provides you with the opportunity to meet this emerging world leader and over 1000 others each year when you participate in our 'citizen diplomacy' activities. These meetings give you an opportunity to share your opinions with high-ranking, influential, international decision-makers. You gain insight into some of the foreign perceptions of the US government and Americans, and in turn you can help change negative assumptions and stereotypes and make friends for America.These contacts often lead to lifelong friendships and reciprocal hosting when you travel. Although our visitors speak English or have translators with them, this unique public service also gives you the chance to practice your language skills.

We call it Direct Diplomacy. It works.

Click here to learn more about IIE membership.