International Student Newsletter

Dear international students,

Happy December! As we inch towards the end of a great semester at BU– full of fresh starts, new beginnings, and great(ish) weather– let’s celebrate all our wins and finish off on a high note. In this edition, you will find an interview with sophomore student Anusha Agarwal (COM’27) who shares her insights on working an on-campus job at BU’s Student Activities Office. You can also find a quick rundown of all that BU has to offer for its final month before winter break; from finals’ de-stress programs to BU School of Theatre performances. In this issue, we are also launching a new section from the ISSO: they share some important travel reminders for international students to keep in mind. As always, the goal of our newsletter is to provide you with helpful information and resources so that you can navigate life at Boston University. We wish you Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year! Have a great winter break full of reconnection and relaxation. We’re looking forward to seeing you next semester!

Announcements

Post Completion OPT Workshop

Hoping to gain some work experience in the United States post-graduation? ISSO’s virtual workshop will teach you about the benefits and application process for post-completion OPT work authorization for F-1 students who want to work in the United States post-graduation.

Tips and Tricks to Manage Workload during Finals

We won’t mince words– finals week is tough. Luckily, BU’s Educational Resource Center is hosting a workshop that gives you helpful tools to navigate finals – from preparing and planning for exams to lowering your stress during finals period. Whether you’re a seasoned test-taker or a finals rookie, this workshop will help you successfully navigate finals week.

Watch End-of-Year Performances at BU

There’s nothing we love more than a break from our hectic study schedules; here are two out of the many performances that the BU School of Theatre will be hosting this December! Enjoy The Rink, the rare roller skating musical from Broadway (Tickets: $22.50) and La Bête, a witty satirical comedy set in 17th-century France (Tickets: Free).

Join Finals De-Stress Programs

No matter the stakes or the stress, your health is always a priority. This year, various BU organizations have specifically designed programs to help you unwind and relax during this busy period. Try mindful meditation, diving into relaxing tea-making art, or learning how to use music for your well-being.Take care of yourself!

Upcoming Events

Full Calendar

Student Experiences

Sheila Hernandez

A Word from Students

BU student, Anusha Agarwal (COM ‘27), shares her insights on working at an on-campus job at BU’s Student Activities Office

Read the Full Story

ISSO Insights

Winter Travel Season Reminders

Congratulations on being in the home stretch of the semester! As you complete your finals, you are likely making plans to maximize enjoyment and relaxation during your winter break. If you are making international travel plans for winter intersession, ISSO has a few reminders:

  • Review the ISSO’s current Travel Advisory when making international travel plans so you can make sure you have the appropriate immigration documentation and authorizations to return to the US.
  • Check that you have a valid travel signature within the past 12 months on page 2 of your I-20 if you are an F-1 student, or page 1 of your DS-2019 if you are a J-1 student. Remember, you can download your most recently issued I-20 or DS-2019 from your ISSOPortal.
  • If you need a new travel signature,
    • bring your immigration documents to the ISSO during normal business hours to request a travel signature while you wait. OR
    • request a new I-20 with a valid travel signature through the ISSOPortal using the “Add New Travel Signature” request.

The ISSO is closely monitoring the change in federal administration in January. ISSO will update the news section of the website and alert the community when there are any developments that could impact travel or student immigration procedures. Please see a recent news post regarding travel considerations before a change in federal administration.

The Compass

There are over 250 academic, housing, community, and employment resources currently on the Compass and each issue we will highlight two.

Previous Newsletter Issues