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Statement
of Purpose
The Office of International Student Services (ISS) promotes,
provides, and supports international and intercultural educational opportunities
for the Howard University community and others by serving as an information
and advising resource, providing international student and scholar services
and coordinating special projects.
Support Services
ISS provides
several support services to Howard’s international community. These include visa and immigration assistance, personal
counseling, and orientation to academic and social life in the U.S. ISS
also facilitates the integration of international students and scholars into
the Howard community and promotes awareness of the important contributions
of this group to the mission and international character of the University.
Finally, ISS serves as a resource center for information often needed by
members of the international and University communities, and functions as
an advocate for international students, staff and scholars.
General Services
ISS provides
numerous services and activities to assist international students, staff
and faculty
with a variety of needs. We
publish a newsletter twice each semester, organize informational meetings
with non-University resource people, and maintain information on international
student financial aid sources.
Immigration Counseling
ISS advisors
assist students, faculty, and staff with F-1, J-1, and H-1 visa and immigration
concerns. The office provides
assistance with visa extensions, transfers, and application procedures for
admission to the University. The Director also provides information
and assistance on Labor Certifications and Permanent Residency.
Cultural
Adjustment Programming
ISS advisors
provide guidance and support to ease the adjustment to life in a new country. This guidance begins with a specialized
orientation program for new international students. Orientation
is offered at the beginning of each semester. Students are acclimated
to U.S. life and culture while learning about the academic environment at
H.U. Individual orientation sessions are provided to international
faculty and staff upon their arrival to the University.
Personal Counseling
ISS advisors
provide limited personal counseling services to members of the University’s
international
community. ISS offers
assistance with personal concerns and makes referrals to appropriate University
and community resources.
Intercultural Programs
ISS sponsors
and participates in many activities to increase awareness of the international
and intercultural nature of Howard
University. These activities include International Week, International
Fest, and activities of regional student organizations.
External Activities
ISS maintains
contacts with educational and civic groups to enhance international education
opportunities
for the University’s international
community. These opportunities include an International Student Job
Fair, cooperation with the Foreign Student Service Council, and membership
in the Foundation Center for grant and scholarship information.
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