OISS expands programming
New programs developed to bring UD's international community together
4:18 p.m., March 12, 2014--Under the new leadership of director Ravi Ammigan, the University of Delaware’s Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) has expanded its semester programming and members of the the international community are appreciative.
This spring, OISS will host more than 40 programs and activities, a dramatic increase from last year.
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Students and scholars can attend events such as the weekly International Coffee Hour, resume writing and job searching for international students, academic culture in the U.S., taxes in the U.S., scholar orientations, immigration and employment sessions, international film series and a trip to Washington, D.C., to see the cherry blossoms.
"It is our privilege to serve the international community here at UD and we hope that everyone will take advantage of these events as a way to further intercultural awareness and global understanding on campus," said Ammigan.
OISS is committed to providing quality advising services and supportive programming to students and scholars during their stay at the University and in the U.S.
In collaboration with campus and community partners, OISS contributes to the internationalization of UD by providing opportunities for growth through cross-cultural interactions and international programming.
The office also provides information and support for the challenges of living, studying and working in a different culture, as well as celebrating the presence of international students and scholars on campus and their important contributions to the University’s research and teaching missions.
“To see some of these new initiatives that get the international community together got me excited,” said Samit Baindur, a graduate student from India pursuing an MBA and master’s in organizational development and change.
Baindur said OISS programs have enriched his on-campus experience. He is impressed by the number and variety of OISS programs and especially enjoys International Coffee Hour.
The kickoff coffee hour event drew more that 200 international and domestic students, scholars, faculty and staff, and has drawn a large crowd ever since. Held every Friday at 44 Kent Way from 4-6 p.m., International Coffee Hour brings the international community together and is where Baindur said he has met new friends.
“It is a good time and place for people to open up, meet new people, and talk about culture,” said Baindur.
In his last semester of graduate school, Baindur is trying to take advantage of as many opportunities UD and OISS have to offer.
The Optional Practical Training Workshop is especially relevant and helpful to Baindur as he is preparing to graduate and search for work in America.
“They have something for everyone, social and informational,” said Baindur.
Collaborators for programing include the Office for Academic Enrichment, Career Services, the Counseling Center, the International Caucus, the city of Newark, the New Student Orientation Office, various academic departments and many more.
Members of UD’s international community include more than 3,500 students, scholars, and family members from over 100 countries outside of the U.S. OISS is housed in 44 Kent Way, the new home for UD’s global and graduate communities.
More information about OISS is available on the website, and those with interest can also follow OISS on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates on events and programming.
Article and photos by Elizabeth Adams