Navigating USC as an International Student: A Guide to Resources and Support
For international students embarking on their academic journey at the University of Southern California (USC), a wealth of resources is available to ensure a smooth transition and a fulfilling experience. From pre-arrival preparations to ongoing support, USC and affiliated organizations are dedicated to assisting international students at every step.
Pre-Arrival Support and Information
The journey to a new country and university begins long before arrival. USC understands this and provides resources to help students prepare. USC has overseas offices strategically located around the world. These offices are located in China, Hong Kong, India, Korea, Mexico, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. These offices are ready to assist new students and their families with any questions or concerns they may have.
In addition to USC's own offices, the U.S. government offers support through EducationUSA centers located worldwide. These centers provide guidance to students preparing to study in the United States. Some even offer pre-departure cultural orientations to prepare students for living and studying in the US.
On-Campus Support: The Center for Global Education
The Center for Global Education serves as a "home away from home" for international students and scholars at USC. The Center provides advising and support services regarding visas, immigration regulations and benefits related to F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrant visa categories. They assist new students and scholars with pre-arrival preparations, finding suitable housing, transportation from GSP airport, orientation, and a variety of programs and events throughout the year.
It is important to note that maintaining visa status, as well as the status of any dependents, is the responsibility of the student.
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Building Community: International Student Organizations
USC is home to a wide variety of international student organizations that provide a sense of community and support for students from around the world. Most of these organizations are under the umbrella of the International Student Assembly (ISA), which serves as the coordinating body for most student nationality groups on campus. These clubs serve as a support group and foster a sense of community among current international students. They are also an invaluable resource for new incoming students. It is important to note that some international student groups are not part of ISA.
These organizations offer a platform for students to connect with others from similar backgrounds, share experiences, and celebrate their cultures. They often organize events, activities, and programs that promote cultural exchange and understanding within the USC community.
Engaging with the World: Global Initiatives and Policies
USC encourages international engagement through research, instruction, health care, student programming, and other partnerships and affiliations abroad. The International Collaborations and Export Controls Policy contains guidelines related to these activities. All USC faculty and staff should be familiar with these guidelines before participating in any international activities or travel.
Any engagement of individuals to perform work outside of the United States - including as independent contractors - must go through the Office of the Vice President for Global and Online Initiatives for review and approval. This ensures compliance with relevant regulations and promotes responsible international engagement.
Student Travel Abroad Policy
The Student Travel Abroad - Destination Restrictions and Crisis Management Policy outlines the responsibilities of students, faculty and staff engaged in organizing and managing student travel abroad. USC tracks all student travel, except personal. In the event of a crisis abroad affecting programs run by partner institutions or USC-organized initiatives that do not include on-site participation by USC employees (i.e. internships), a campus-based response team will be convened to coordinate the university’s response to the emergency. This policy prioritizes the safety and well-being of students traveling abroad and ensures a coordinated response in case of emergencies.
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CGE Events and Trips
The Center for Global Education sponsors several on-campus events and off-campus trips for our Global Spartans each year. The goal of our on-campus events is to bring different cultures to campus and create a sense of global community. All Global Spartans are welcome at these events. Our off-campus trips aim to show our international students more of the Upstate and the Southeast.
Key takeaways for international students
- Utilize overseas offices: USC's international offices are valuable resources for pre-arrival support and guidance.
- Connect with EducationUSA: EducationUSA centers offer assistance with preparing for studies in the United States.
- Engage with the Center for Global Education (CGE): The CGE is a central hub for international student support, offering advising on visa matters, housing, transportation, and more.
- Join international student organizations: These groups provide a sense of community and are invaluable resources for new students.
- Familiarize yourself with USC's international policies: Understanding policies related to international collaborations and student travel is crucial for responsible global engagement.
- Participate in CGE events and trips: These activities offer opportunities to learn about different cultures and explore the surrounding region.
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