If you think your first day of college is a bit frightening, try doing it in a country where almost no one speaks your language.
The Center for International Programs and Services at The University of Memphis provides assistance to foreign students to make their first year in school much easier.
Through this office students can find out about federal government policy, employment information and student associations that will help them adapt to a new culture.
Beginning July 15 the office will relocate to the Old Brister Library building, first floor in room 102. The center's phone number is 678-4271.
Based on the type of student visa granted, the advisor will be able to determine the employment availability.
For example, if students have an F-1 visa, they are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during a full semester session and full time during the summer (breaks).
Before applying for any position at school, it is important students to go to the CIPS office and bring their passports, I-20 form from The U of M and from other schools, and proof of health insurance.
Getting a job without being well informed about the restrictions and laws can get students in serious trouble with the U.S. Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Any immigration issue that students may have can be addressed to Arda Beskardes, the Immigration Specialist for The U of M at abeskrds@memphis.edu
Once employed on campus, international students must visit Senese Duhart in the Finance Office at 103 Wilder Tower. Her phone number is 678-2271, and office hours 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday - Thursday. The office closes at 4:30 p.m. on Fridays.
In the United States, all employees are required to report to the government every semester the amount of money they make.
Duhart will assist students with on-campus jobs, assistantships or scholarships, in obtaining a taxpayer identification number and in making sure they don't pay unnecessary taxes.
To help adjust to a new culture and a new school system, students have formed The International Student Association. ISA members strive to create an atmosphere of comfort, adaptability and common interests and to help each other in the adaptation process.
Charles Haynes is a communications major at The U of M and an American-born student who recently spent some months in France as an international student.
He said he recommends every foreign student join this organization.
"It is important to feel like that you 'fit in,' and when someone speaks our language and understands our needs it makes it easier for us to enjoy the process and not feel alone," Haynes said.
For information on all the activities, meeting times, and different associations in school, students can contact Kara Wilber at kwilber@memphis.edu.
The Center for International Programs and Services also provides a bi-weekly newsletter that specifically addresses the needs of international students.
Students can read about government news, job opportunities, housing, sales and any events that the department is planning to have.
To subscribe to the newsletter, send an e-mail to CSNUNIS@memphis.edu
CIPS is planning an International Education Week for Nov. 17-21, 2003 that will include the following activities:
* A five-day exhibition of photographs by American students abroad and foreign students in the United States.
* A display of indoor and outdoor games from all over the world.
* An international movie night.
* An international job expo fair.
* A Study Abroad Information Fair.
* A student and faculty panel on sharing international experiences.
* A photo contest award reception.
For information on this event you may contact chhaynes@memphis.edu.
