WEEKLY UPDATE – Feb. 2

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. In this week's newsletter, we're focusing on some important safety reminders for international students. As always, please reach out to our office if you have any questions or concerns. 

It’s always important for students to be proactive in preparing for emergency situations, both on and off campus. Being aware of your surroundings can help you recognize signs of danger. Learn more by reviewing USF’s emergency procedures and the resources below: 

All international students should keep their emergency contact information on Banner Self-Service (Student) up to date.

International students and visitors can be targets of crimes because they are less familiar with the area. These incidents are random and, with some knowledge and awareness, can often be avoided. A scam, also called fraud, is when a person or persons tries to get you to give money under false pretenses (a lie). The most common scams include someone claiming to be from:

If you ever have any questions or concerns about the communication you receive, get the caller’s name and contact details, then call or email ISSS. We can assist students in identifying potential scams and responding to any legitimate communication from a U.S. government official. 

Learn More » 

The Department of Public Safety, along with community partners, ensures a safe learning, working, and living environment at the University of San Francisco. Their office provides information on crime prevention and tips for staying safe. Public Safety suggests keeping phones and valuables out of sight and avoiding wearing headphones when walking around. Being aware and vigilant allows you to pick up on subtle signals that warn you to be cautious and be able to react quickly. Protect your personal identifying information (birthdate, social security number, passport number, visa information, etc). Never provide this information to anyone over the phone or by email. Stay safe and trust your instincts! 

Learn More »

Students who have not attended an OPT Workshop and are applying for OPT will be required to self-enroll in the online OPT course in Canvas and successfully complete the course before they can apply for OPT. After completing the online OPT course, students can attend optional OPT Drop-In Advising to meet with an ISSS adviser if they have questions about the OPT process. Students who have completed the OPT Workshop within the last academic year are not required to complete the online OPT course. Please visit our OPT web page for more information. 

Feb. 1–28

Get your heart pumping this February during American Heart Month. Let's inspire each other to stay active, prioritize heart health, and show the world just how committed the USF student community is to leading a heart-healthy lifestyle! Open to the USF Community.

Register to Join » 

Tuesday, Feb. 22 | 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

Star Route Farms

Spend the day at Star Route Farms in Bolinas, California, where international students will connect with nature, learn about sustainable farming, share a meal, and participate in community-building activities. This is an opportunity to relax, meet others, and explore the Bay Area beyond campus. Open to USF students.

 Register Now »

Tuesday, Feb. 24 | 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. PST

Online

Hosted by the USFCA Career Services Center, this event features recruiters and USF alumni sharing real-world advice on standing out in today’s job market. Get insider tips on applications, interviews, and what employers are truly looking for. Open to USF students and alumni.

Register Here »

Tuesday, Feb. 24 | 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m.

Lo Schiavo Privett Plaza

Celebrate the Year of the Horse with the Center for Asia Pacific Studies and other Asia-focused programs on campus! Join the celebration at Privett Plaza for music, games, prizes, food, and a traditional lion dance by Leung’s White Crane Association. Open to the USF Community.

Learn More »

Students seeking support are welcome to call CAPS any time at (855) 531-0761 to talk to a counselor. To schedule an initial appointment or cancel or reschedule existing appointments, call (415) 422-6352, between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or leave a voicemail. We encourage you to stay connected with friends and loved ones and engage in extra self-care. Staff or faculty seeking additional support may utilize the Employee Assistance Program via CONCERN, which is accessible 24/7 by calling (800) 344-4222. 

Learn More »

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 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.   

Click the Chat with ISSS button in 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.

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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.