The University of Missouri Asian Affairs Center (AAC), created in 1998 by the Office of the Provost, reflects the university’s formal recognition of cultural, strategic and economic importance of the nations of the Pacific Rim. The center has a mandate to build upon MU’s substantial Asian programs, university and alumni linkages, and teaching and research connections in the region to benefit citizens, government entities and businesses in Missouri and the region. The Asian Affairs Center also strives to work toward these other goals: - Serve as a bridge between MU and Asia. - Develop and maintain close ties with MU alumni and partners in the Pacific Rim. - Promote awareness and appreciation of Asia and its various cultures on campus and in the community. - Provide short- and long-term training programs for Asian scholars, officials and students through the Missouri International Training Institute (the educational and training arm of the AAC). Living English as a core concept~~ The Asian Affairs Center’s educational philosophy on language and cultural acquisition is a full immersion approach. Program participants start “living” English and American culture, rather than studying them. The center provides an optimal learning environment for participants to pursue that goal with community involvement, American collegiate ambassadors and an English-only policy throughout the program.