Dec. 13

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 featured these students' stories on our Instagram and bestowed the first two students 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 spring 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 next year's graduates achieve!

ISSS will be open from 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Monday, Dec. 16 – Friday, Dec. 20, and Monday, Dec. 23.

Degree Level: Graduate 

Program: Professional Communication

Position Served: Graduate Coordinator for Cultural Centers

"As the graduate coordinator for Cultural Centers, I had the privilege of mentoring the Cultural-Focus Club, providing guidance and support to enhance their initiatives. I also had the rewarding responsibility of supervising and mentoring our undergraduate student international community intern, who played a key role in  

organizing and hosting the vibrant Café International events. Furthermore, I had the distinct honor of leading one of the end-of-year ceremonies, the Latine/x Recognition Ceremony. This role not only allowed me to serve and uplift my fellow international students but also to support cultural-focused organizations, fostering an inclusive environment that promoted a deep sense of belonging and community."

Degree Level: Graduate

Program: Professional Communication

Position Served: CSSA President

"My advice to future international students is to have the courage to face rejection, embrace the possibility of failure, and truly cherish your university life. Living abroad as an international student won't always be smooth sailing, but having the bravery to challenge yourself and accept the possibility of failure will open doors to a world of new experiences and opportunities.  Don't hesitate to take that first step — beyond the threshold of fear lies a world of unexpected excitement and possibilities. It's also crucial to maintain a balance between academics and leisure. In a completely new environment, there's so much to explore, but at the same time, it's important to stay focused on your studies and strive for meaningful academic achievements."

Degree Level: Graduate 

Program: Computer Science 

Position Served: International Student Orientation Guide for the Department of Computer Science

"One of my most memorable experiences as a USF student was participating in a collaborative project during my Machine Learning course. As part of the project, I worked with my teammate to develop a wind power prediction system. It was not just about applying 

algorithms we had learned; it was also about the end-to-end research experience, from research on the background of the project, dataset searching, dividing tasks, and integrating everyone’s contributions into a cohesive solution."

Degree Level: Graduate

Program: Sports Management 

"My senior day on the tennis team [was my most memorable experience as a USF student.] It has been such a mix of emotions. [When] the tennis program got cut, that day was my last game as a Don as well as the last game for the USF Tennis team. On that day, I realized everything I’ve done and achieved during my time at USF, [and felt] very proud. At the same time, it has been sad to be part of the last tennis team in the history of USF. "

Degree Level: Undergraduate

Program: Architecture

"[My most memorable experience at USF was] finding community within my major by working very long nights in the studio. Often times during finals week, we spend night and day in the XARTS studios working toward our final submissions. [Having moved] to a whole new country, like other students who have moved cities or states, it became a space not only to work hard but to build bonds. Sharing materials, giving others critiques, and timing each other’s naps so we do not get behind schedule. My first year I lived very far from campus so I did not create those bonds as fast as some. Once I moved closer, I saw the value of working in the studio more frequently. While I hope to never experience those intense all-nighters again, I will always cherish the people and projects that came from it."

Degree Level: Graduate

Program: Professional Communication 

"My advice to future international students is to embrace the journey with an open mind and resilient spirit. Be ready for cultural adjustments — it takes time but is incredibly rewarding. Embrace diversity, learn from different customs, and appreciate new traditions to enrich your perspective. Build a strong support network by connecting with students, professors, and university services to make your transition smoother. Remember, education goes beyond the classroom. Immerse yourself in local culture, explore your surroundings, and engage in activities that broaden your experience. Stay curious, celebrate your achievements, and use this journey to shape your future."

Degree Level: Graduate

Program: Professional Communication

Position Served: Public Relations Student Society of America

"My most memorable experience was my first volleyball game — so fun! I got to see some friends, meet people, and cheer for USF. [My advice for future international students is] do your research and ask questions! Someone before you already has an answer." 

Check out our graduating student stories on our Instagram »

International Student and Alumni Network (ISAN) 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 Now »

Wishing all students a joyful and restful holiday season!

"Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and Happy New Year!"

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.

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.

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