UC Santa Cruz’s International Student Services & Programming (ISSP) wrapped up the 2024–25 academic year with a wide array of orientations, events, and support programming designed to empower, inform, and integrate international undergraduate and graduate students into the campus community.
Orientation & Graduate Preparation
The year began with the annual International Student Orientation for all incoming degree-seeking and exchange students in F-1 and J-1 visa status. These comprehensive sessions helped students navigate visa requirements, adjust to U.S. academic culture, and access campus resources, forming a solid foundation for a successful transition to UC Santa Cruz.
International graduate students also benefited from the Graduate Preparation Program (GPP)—a targeted, four-week initiative that focused on academic communication, U.S. university systems, and teaching assistant readiness.
Peer Mentorship
Throughout the year, returning international students participated in Mentorship Programs, offering guidance to new international undergraduate and graduate students navigating their first year. Peer mentors fostered cross-cultural connections and leadership skills, helping ease the transition for new arrivals.
This year, the International Graduate Mentorship Program was funded by a grant received through the work of Andy Ng, Assistant Director of International Programming. Three graduate students were selected to lead as mentors and worked together to identify needs, lead programming, and support international graduate students as they integrate into campus life at UC Santa Cruz.
Career Building & Campus Engagement
ISSP emphasized professional development, curating opportunities for students to gain experience through internships, volunteer roles, and on-campus employment. These roles were tailored to meet visa regulations while building students’ networks and skillsets.
The team also hosted a variety of workshops:
- OPT Preparation Workshops guided F-1 students through the process of applying to and participating in Optional Practical Training. For the first time, a round table discussion at the Silicon Valley Campus was offered.
- The International Career Series and LinkedIn Workshop helped students craft U.S.-ready resumes and professional profiles.
- Tax Workshops for international students and scholars covered essential filing information with expert input from Glacier tax software administrators.
- A graduate student support series provided helpful resources and community-building sessions throughout the summer.
- Monthly Global Cafes, including visits from Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS), Career Success, and a collaborative learning session with Slugworks continued to help build community among international students and scholars and connection to campus support services
Cultural Celebration & Belonging
Cultural programming brought the campus community together. International Education Week featured cross-cultural activities celebrating UCSC’s global diversity. Lunar New Year events introduced events and cuisine, strengthening cultural bonds among East and Southeast Asian student communities. Art as Translation invited international students to reflect on the ways food and language intersect to shape memory and identity. Work Day at Pie Ranch offered students a meaningful Saturday afternoon of community, service, and learning. International Market Fair allowed students to participate in international activities and enjoy a selection of international treats.
Additionally, the ISSP newsletters kept students up to date on immigration policies, deadlines, and upcoming events, ensuring that our international students remained connected, informed, and supported year-round.
A Year of Impact
ISSP’s multifaceted programming in 2024–25 supported:
- Immigration guidance, including visa check-ins, announcements, travel guidance, and work authorization information.
- Academic integration, through mentorship and graduate preparation.
- Career readiness, via employment and internship resources.
- Cultural engagement, with events and activities that foster a sense of belonging.