On February 1, 2026, members of the San Diego Chapter of the Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors (FASCA-SD) gathered at the San Diego Chinese Academy (SDCA) for an informational session introducing the 2026 summer English Teaching Volunteer Service Program for Overseas Youth, hosted by the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC). Designed to promote cultural exchange, service learning, and personal growth, the session provided students and families with a comprehensive overview of the program and its opportunities.
The event was emceed by FASCA members Dylan Chen and Eileen Wu, who guided the program and supported speakers throughout the session. The event began with a featured presentation by Ms. Betty Hsiao, Director of the Culture Center of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (T.E.C.O.) in Los Angeles (Santa Ana). Director Hsiao delivered a detailed introduction to the program, outlining its goals, structure, and significance. She also shared valuable insights into the application process, including important reminders and tips on how to properly complete the application, helping students and families better prepare for submission.
Council members of the Overseas Community Affairs Council, Mr. Steve Hsieh and Ms. Yunching Yeh Davis, who serve on the program’s application review committee, continued the session by providing insights into the selection criteria. They explained key aspects of the application process and shared helpful guidance to help students and parents better understand the program’s expectations.
Following the presentations, four FASCA members — Willem Huang, Helen Lu, Caroline Pai, and Elliot Chian — shared their firsthand experiences participating in the program during the summer of 2025. They spoke about the training process, daily schedules, teaching responsibilities, meals, and living arrangements. The student speakers also offered practical advice on preparation and what to bring, providing attendees with a realistic and informative look into the volunteer experience.
The session continued with reflections from Sharon Lee, the mother of Willem Huang, and Cindy Huang, the mother of Caroline Pai. They shared how the program positively influenced their children’s personal growth, highlighting increased independence, deeper cultural understanding, and improved Chinese language skills. Their reflections emphasized the program’s lasting impact on both personal development and cultural identity.
Through shared experiences, detailed explanations, and open discussion, participants gained a deeper understanding of how the program fosters leadership, independence, and cross-cultural service. FASCA-SD hopes that more students and families will come to understand the value of this meaningful program and take advantage of the opportunity provided by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Council by signing up to participate.
Reported by: Leonard Way, FASCA San Diego PR Team
●About FASCA-SD
The Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors – San Diego empowers Taiwanese American youth to develop leadership skills, promote cultural exchange, and serve their local communities through education and outreach initiatives.
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●Website: https://www.fascasandiego.com/
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