WEEKLY UPDATE – May 12

ISSS would like to share stories and advice from your peers who have gone above and beyond to advocate, support, and create a community for international students. In gratitude and appreciation, we have bestowed each student with the ISSS International Service Award pin to commemorate their tenacity and efforts. 

As always, if you have questions related to immigration, you can email ISSS or make an online appointment with your ISSS adviser. Please note that this will be our last newsletter until fall 2025. Our office is so proud of each and every one of you, and we wish you all the very best! We also look forward to what this year's graduates achieve! For those of you still working toward completing your degree, enjoy your summer!

Degree Level: Graduate
Program: Public Health
Position Served: Graduate Student Senate

"Being an international student comes with its own set of challenges, but it also gives you a unique perspective that’s so valuable. Find your people — whether that’s through student organizations, events, or just casual coffee chats. When you're far away from home in an unknown country, community makes all the difference."

Degree Level: Graduate
Program: Professional Communication
Position Served: Assistant Residence Director 

"Don’t be afraid to take up space. As an international student, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed or even intimidated in a new environment, but always remember that you belong here just as much as anyone else. As long as you’re being respectful and kind, there’s nothing wrong with showing up as your full, authentic self." 

Degree Level: Graduate
Program: Law 
Position Served: LLM Representative for SBA

"This role taught me that true leadership is about service. I learned to listen actively, represent others with integrity, and build consensus across different viewpoints. Being a trusted point of contact for my classmates gave me a deeper understanding of responsibility and the value of showing up consistently for others."

Degree Level: Undergraduate 
Program: Hospitality Management & Marketing
Position Served: ISO Guide Fall 2024, VSA Co-Founder/VP/President 

"Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Get involved, ask for help when you need it, and be proud of your background. It might feel scary at first because of the cultural and language barrier, but you’ll grow so much and find your community along the way."

Degree Level: Undergraduate 
Program: Psychology
Position Served: International Student Association Executive Board (President 2024–25, Vice President 2023–24, Events Associate 2022–23) 

"Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. These four years fly by, and you won’t get them back. I’ve met a lot of international students who feel homesick and just want to go home, and I get it. But I always remind them: you will go back eventually. While you're here, make the most of it."

Degree Level: Undergraduate 
Program: Computer Science
Position Served: ISSS Student Assistant 

"My most memorable experience at USF was during my senior year when I was able to attend a soccer tournament with my club soccer team in Irvine. It was one of the most beautiful moments of my life, where we could just bond as a team and play a sport we all love." 

From May 19 – Aug. 1, the ISSS front desk will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Staff will remain available by phone from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The International Student and Alumni Network promotes the exchange of ideas and celebrates the achievements of USF international students and alumni. We invite students and alumni everywhere to come together and use this group to connect with old friends, network, and share your favorite USF memories and experiences living, working, and navigating immigration in the U.S. Join here »

Buongiorno amici! Tune in to the last episode for spring 2025! Join our refreshing conversation with an international visitor from Italy in discussion about international student support, cultural exchange, and the unique experiences of students navigating global education between the U.S. and Europe. Listen in »

During the new presidential administration, ISSS is monitoring and communicating immigration updates that may affect our international students. Visit our International Student Support web page for updates and resources.

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 in to 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.

Click the Chat with ISSS button at the bottom, right corner of any ISSS web page, and the ISSS team can assist you with your inquiry.

Appointments can be made online. Appointments are booked in 20-minute increments.

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.