Spring 2009 Semester

Dear International Student,

Congratulations on your admission to the University of Miami! We at the Department of International Student and Scholar Services are pleased that you have selected our University. While studying abroad is a challenging educational adventure, it can also be overwhelming at times.  We are here to assist you.

About International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS):
ISSS provides support services for international students, scholars (faculty and researchers) and observers.  Over 1500 international students (undergraduate and graduate), 335 international scholars, and 590 international observers from approximately 111 countries are studying, teaching, conducting research, and observing at UM. 

ISSS offers the following support services to assist international students and scholars with the unique challenges as well as opportunities internationals encounter while pursuing their academic goals at the UM:

• Immigration Advising                    
• Orientation Programs
• Employment Information and Authorization
• U.S. Income Tax Filing Requirements Information
• Advising regarding Personal and Adjustment Problems
• Advocacy
• Liaison with Sponsors and Governments

We work closely with the Council of International Students and Organizations (COISO), the umbrella organization for all international students groups at UM, in highlighting the diversity of the University community and in planning cultural events and activities on campus, including International Week and United Nations Day.   In addition, we advise the Model United Nations Club and Team.

Pre-Arrival Information:
On our website, we have included information you will need prior to arriving on campus. To access this information, go to www.miami.edu/internationalservices and click on “Prospective International Students” and then click on “Pre-Arrival Information”. You will find information regarding services and programs offered by ISSS, travel and entry into the U.S., housing, tuition and fees, living expenses while in the U.S., and health care and insurance.

International Student Orientation (ISO):
ISSS sponsors ISO for all incoming international students.  ISO is a Pre-Orientation program for international students, which compliments the University’s new student orientation program by providing international students with information that will assist in their transition to living and studying in the U.S.
 
As a participant, you will meet returning students and administrators who will discuss immigration rules international students must follow to stay in the U.S., academic expectations in the U.S., local community resources, life and customs in the U.S., and available health care, emergency assistance, and insurance coverage.  You will also have an opportunity to meet and get acquainted with your new peers. 

All new international students are required to attend ISO.   Parents are welcome to attend the Welcome Reception beginning at 10 a.m.  The remainder of the program is for students only. 

Tuesday, January 13, 2009
9:30 a.m.                           Check-in
10:00 a.m.                         Welcome Reception
11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.     Student Program

University Center – Flamingo Ballroom
1306 Stanford Drive
Coral Gables, FL 33146

For more information call (305) 284-2928 or email isss@miami.edu

New Student Orientation Program: 
All undergraduate international students MUST attend the university-wide new student orientation program which begins on Wednesday, January 14.  To view the program schedule, please go to http://www6.miami.edu/orientation/

We look forward to meeting you on January 13!

Sincerely,

Teresa de la Guardia
Director
International Student & Scholar Services
University of Miami
5600 Merrick Drive , 21-F
Coral Gables , FL 33124-5550
Telephone: 305-284-2928
Fax: 305-284-3409
Email: isss@miami.edu
Website:www.miami.edu/internationalservices