International Student Orientation
International Student Orientation is mandatory for all new incoming students. The program is structured to outline your immigration responsibilities and how to maintain your status while in the United States. Valuable resources and offices are introduced and current international students lead discussions and answer questions. More information can be found here.
CAPX/CPT Workshops
These workshops are jointly sponsored and presented by the Career and Professional Experience (CAPX) office and International Affairs. During the workshop students will learn about the steps to obtain an internship and fill out required paperwork to begin looking for an internship. A representative from International Affairs will cover Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization and how this is obtained. Workshops are typically held once a semester.
International Trivia Night
International Affairs, along with Student Life and the International Student Advisory Board host an annual trivia night where teams of students have the opportunity to learn more about their peers by competing to answer trivia questions about demographics, sports, politics and culture to win awesome prizes all while enjoying delicious international cuisine.
OPT Workshops
Optional Practical Training (OPT) workshops are held throughout the semester to give students an outline of this F-1 student benefit and the application process. Students in their final semester must attend a workshop early on in the term to be prepared to apply for OPT. The OPT workshop is also available online to students in their final semester.
Life After F-1 Workshop
This workshop is geared toward students who are graduating in the current or next semester. International Affairs invites a professional immigration attorney to outline student options after completing their degree programs. Topics typically include applying for Optional Practical Training, the H-1B, the Green Card process, changing to other immigration statuses, and more.
Odyssey Travel Grant
Each spring semester SAIC awards travel grants degree-seeking students for the sole purpose of education through personal travel. These awards are given through the generosity of a donor and are granted on a noncompetitive basis. Names are drawn at random from submitted applications during an award ceremony each spring. The grants must be used for travel before the following January. Applications are accepted online.
International Student Farewell Picnic
International Affairs hosts a picnic for international students graduating in May of each year. International students are encouraged to join their fellow graduates to celebrate their degree completion with International Affairs and other SAIC staff and faculty. The event is held the week before the commencement ceremonies and is open to graduates and their guests.
Spring and Fall International Student Mixers
In the spring and the fall, International Affairs hosts a mixer for international students. This is a great time for international students to reconnect and meet other international students over drinks and snacks. Past events have included activities such as postcard making, games, and a live DJ.
