Our office wants to make sure that your educational journey in the U.S. is safe and healthy, allowing you the space to learn and grow. That's why we're focusing on some important safety reminders for international students this week. As always, please reach out to our office if you have any questions or concerns.
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Tips for Recognizing Fraud and Scams |
International students and visitors can be targets of crimes because they are less familiar with the area. These incidents are random, but can often be avoided with some knowledge and awareness. A scam is when a person or persons try to get you to give your personal information and/or money under false pretenses (a lie). It can also be called fraud. The most common scams include someone claiming to be:
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A U.S. law enforcement or other U.S. agency (police, FBI, Department of Homeland Security, USCIS, etc.)
- The IRS (U.S. tax department)
- A company offering you a job or anyone you don't know that requests you purchase items (including gift cards) using your own money. Gift cards are used in scams because they don't require identification to be used.
- A person offering fake housing or apartment rentals.
- Someone on social media you do not know (including WeChat, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.)
- Posing as the ISSS office or an ISSS staff member
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If you receive a questionable or concerning call or email, do not give out any personal information, get the caller’s name and contact details, then call or email ISSS immediately. We can assist students in identifying potential scams and responding to any legitimate communication from a U.S. government official.
Learn more about safety and scams on the ISSS website »
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Safety During Fire Season |
Wildfires are common in California during the fall (September – November), and planned power outages may occur to prevent fire from spreading. Here’s how to stay prepared:
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USF encourages students to have an emergency plan. Being prepared will help you stay safe and calm during outages or wildfire events.
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Recent Changes to the Visa Application Process |
Over the past few months, the State Department has revised their policy and guidance on scheduling visa interviews, visa interview waivers, and visa validity periods. We advise students to review these changes before making international plans to renew their visas. Please review the links to our announcements below for more information:
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Infusing Culture Into Chopsticks |
Tuesday, Sept. 16 | 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m.
Privett Plaza
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Join the Center for Asia Pacific Studies and CHOPSTICKSTORY for a hands-on workshop exploring Korean heritage through chopsticks. Learn their history, craft your own set, and enjoy games and challenges that connect culture, science, and community. This event is open to all USF community members.
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| Thursday, Sept. 18 | 6–7 p.m.
University Center — 411/412
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American Snacking 101 edition! Make community with international students! All USF students are welcome. From salty to sweet, discover the flavors that make American snacking iconic. Share your own favorite childhood or cultural snacks! Join us to savor the classics and enjoy some FREE TREATS! This event is open to all USF community members.
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Thursday, Sept.18 | 6:30–8 p.m.
Fromm Hall 125
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Join poet and artist Daniela Naomi Molnar for a reading and conversation around her new book of poems, PROTOCOLS: An Erasure from Ayin Press. Molnar's work is fueled by a deep awareness of the dangers and possibilities of language, antisemitism, and the lasting impacts of collective memory and inherited trauma. This event is open to all USF community members.
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| First Chance for Internships |
Tuesday, Sept. 23 | 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m.
McLaren Conference Center
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Discover how to find and land the right internship at this Career Services workshop. Learn the best search resources, how to use your network effectively, and tips to make your application stand out. You’ll leave with practical strategies to kick-start your internship search and build confidence in the process. This event is open to all USF community members.
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- Rebecca is a fourth-year student majoring in computer science and minoring in mathematics. Her favorite thing about ISSS is how many resources the department provides to help the students here.
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Hivva is a third-year student majoring in marketing and analytics. She appreciates how welcoming, friendly, and hardworking the staff are. They go out of their way to make international students feel comfortable and supported, creating a true home away from home.
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Chi is a second-year student majoring in economics and minoring in business/legal studies. Her favorite thing about ISSS is the resources available for international students, including events, information about opportunities on social media pages, and step-by-step informative posts on important processes.
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Vy is a graduate student majoring in marketing intelligence. What she appreciates most about ISSS is its unwavering support. The team leads with compassion and takes pride in building a community where every voice matters.
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If you are requesting an immigration document or letter from our office, remember that we request ten business days to process requests. Make sure you plan accordingly so you have enough time to receive your document before you need it. All ISSS requests should be submitted through the MyISSS student portal (log into your MyISSS account, go to Requests & Documents, and select the appropriate icon on the right side of the page). You can view our MyISSS Student Handbook for assistance with your submission.
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Click the Chat with ISSS button on the bottom, right corner of any ISSS web page, and the ISSS team can assist you with your inquiry.
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Our podcast focuses on mindfulness, diversity, and inclusion, featuring episodes that cover diverse topics. Subscribe for engaging narratives, consistent audio quality, and a cohesive visual identity, and join us in building a mindful and inclusive USF community.
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Want to submit content for future newsletters? For a student feature, fill out this form, and for all other contributions, email our office at isss@usfca.edu for more information.
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University of San Francisco | International Student and Scholar Services
2130 Fulton Street | San Francisco, CA 974117 US
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