WEEKLY UPDATE – March 9

Spring break is coming up from March 16–20! During spring break, ISSS front desk hours will be from 10 a.m.–3 p.m., and ISSS phone hours will be from 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

This week's newsletter includes information to help you navigate the international student online portal, MyISSS. Students can use this online portal to submit requests to ISSS, view the status of their current and previous requests, access all previously submitted requests, download and print documents from completed requests, and view information and announcements from our office. This is also the system ISSS uses to submit federally required data to the DHS Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Remember to review the MyISSS Student Handbook for information on using MyISSS and other frequently asked questions.

Students submit most requests to our office through MyISSS. Keep in mind that you can access all requests you started and submitted in your student portal. The image below shows the MyISSS initial login page. If you are a current student or alumnus with active MyUSF credentials, click the Log in with MyUSF credentials button and enter your MyUSF credentials. If you are an alumnus and your MyUSF credentials are no longer active, click the Log in with Alumni Portal Account button to log in using your USF email address.

Once you log in, you can read important announcements on your Homepage and review your Personal & Program Information. Click on Requests & Documents to submit a request, review a request you have started and saved, find requests that have been reviewed or processed, and find and download a new I-20/DS-2019 or letter that has been issued to you.

Remember to reference the MyISSS Student Handbook if you have any questions about using the MyISSS student portal. You can also send us an email or chat with us in real time using Glia (available via the Chat with ISSS button on our website) if you experience difficulties submitting requests or downloading documents.

Wednesday, March 11 | 6–7 p.m.
UC 411/412 Intercultural Center

Come and be in community with international students! Join the Intercultural Center in this special floral arrangement workshop exploring historical and emotional connections of florals from across the globe! Flowers and food will be provided. Open to USF students. 

Thursday, March 12 | 5:30–6:30 p.m. Cowell 107

Learn about your options to remain in the U.S. after completing your program of studies. An immigration attorney will provide an overview of employment opportunities for F-1 students, with a focus on the H-1B work visa and next steps after graduation. Open to USF students.

Register here »

Register by March 31

Graduating this spring, summer, or fall? Celebrate your graduation through community-centered celebrations rooted in cultural traditions. Register today for one or more of the seven End of the Year Ceremonies hosted by the Cultural Centers! All graduating students are welcome.

Learn more »

Saturday, April 11 | 4–5 p.m.
Sobrato Center

The University of San Francisco Silk Speaker Series features key thought leaders on global affairs, the economy, and business. This year, Academy Award-winning actress and producer Nicole Kidman joins us on Saturday, April 11, for an evening conversation.

Nicole Kidman brings a powerful voice and perspective to the Hilltop as a global advocate for women's rights.

RSVP now »

Rashi Bhatt is a doctoral candidate in the International & Multicultural Education program, working on her dissertation centered on international student voices from India. Her research aligns well with the ISSS project, Global Connections podcast, which fosters connections within the international student community. She has been the ISSS graduate assistant since fall 2023 and has been integral in executing programming events like International Education Week, Spring Star Route Fram Retreat, and International Student Orientations each semester! Rashi loves discovering trendy cafes, boutique home decor shops, and museums in her free time.

Spring break is coming up! If you are planning to travel internationally during the break, ensure you have a valid travel signature on your I-20/DS-2019 and all other required documents for travel. You can find more information on our Travel Info web page. Also, make sure to review any travel advisories on our International Student Support web page.

We have compiled a list of ISSS student assistants'  favorite SF spots! Check out some of their favorite restaurants and activities in San Francisco during spring break!

Restaurants: 

Activities: 

Looking for more things to do? Click here »

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 requests are processed within 10 business days. Make sure you plan accordingly to 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 on 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. Find upcoming workshops on the ISSS Events and Workshops calendar.

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. Join us in building a mindful and inclusive USF community.

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.