Can you even believe that next week is the fifteenth week of the semester? There is no doubt that the last week of classes (and the following week, Finals Week) are a mixed blessing. For continuing students, you are finally so close to a much-deserved break; but for those of you who are finishing your programs, whether degree or exchange, you are closing what may be one of the best chapters of your life!
But as we inch closer to the final days of the semester, there are still things to do so let's get stuck in!
WALK-INS DECEMBER 9-13
The final week of classes is busy for your and it's busy for our office too! Because of this, you should be aware of TWO changes to the usual Monday-Friday 1-3pm Walk-In Hours.
CHANGE ONE: I-20 SIGNATURE DROP-INS on Tuesday
On Tuesday, I will be in MSC at the Fireside Cafe from 11am-1pm for I-20 signatures. If you will be traveling out of the country (with the intent to return) you will require an updated travel endorsement (or signature) for page 2 of your document. The travel signature is valid for 12 months for continuing students and 6 months for students on OPT. If you are unsure whether you need an updated travel signature or you know you do, please stop in to the OIE during walk-ins OR stop by to see me at MSC on Tuesday. If you require a new I-20 (because of loss, damage, etc), you will need to visit the OIE or send me an email so I can print a new one for you.
CHANGE TWO: THURSDAY WALK-INS TIME CHANGE
Because of afternoon meetings, there will be no walk-ins for ISSS on Thursday afternoon. However, international students can stop by for walk-ins from 10am-12:00pm without an appointment.
GLOBAL INVOLVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
For those of you looking to begin completion of your Spring 2020 Global Involvement opportunities early, please keep an eye on CONNECT. Danielle has already received several requests and as you will have learned from this semester, it is better to start early than to wait until the end to complete your hours! Also, please remember that you are responsible for identifying your own Global Involvement opportunities. The OIE will post opportunities that we learn about (especially if they are not posted elsewhere on campus) but YOU are responsibile for identifying opportunities that match your interests by connecting with campus and community organizations.
Students needing to complete 20 hours in order to apply for the Fall 2020 application (due May 1) can begin collecting Global Involement hours now!
DO YOU NEED A NEW FINANCIAL GUARANTEE?
SACM students ONLY: please ask yourself if you need an new I-20 for the spring semester. Not sure? Good news! I will be emailing all students requiring a new Financial Guarantee before Monday, December 9. Please watch your email for a message from me regarding the status of your Financial Guarantee!
IS YOUR I-20 EXPIRING?
Please check your I-20 for the End Date. The End Date is the date that you should be finishing your program on; if your I-20 is expiring in December or January and you need an extension, please contact Danielle immediately for options!
We will host a small going away reception for students who will be leaving us this semester, including graduates and exchange students. Students who are not graduating but would like to send off our leavers are welcome to join.
Please join us for snacks, photos and well wishes!
