sign post pointing to many countries

International Week helps Spartans learn about studying abroad, and celebrates international students visiting SJSU (International Programs and Services image).

By Pat Lopes Harris, Media Relations Director

International Week spring 2012 festivities will begin with the International Pancake Breakfast, and include a travel photo contest, study abroad fair featuring over 200 universities, “Norooz” (Happy Persian New Year) celebration, and International Scholarship Fundraising Banquet.

At the banquet, “we will be honoring Helen Stevens for her long-time devotion to international education and commitment to supporting our students, faculty and staff at SJSU,” said International House Director Leann Cherkasky Makhni.

Stevens, who recently retired, was the director of International Programs and Services. During her tenure, SJSU was named a Fulbright Scholar Top Producing University. Also, the Institute of International Education consistently ranked SJSU among the top masters degree institutions in the nation based on the total number of international students on campus.

New this year will be “Women of the World: Spotlight Afghanistan,” featuring Najia Karim, Cultural Society of Afghan Women in the Bay Area founder and the wife of SJSU President Mo Qayoumi. More info on all events follow.

INTERNATIONAL WEEK EVENTS – SPRING 2012

I-Week Photo Contest  – Win Prizes!
To download the flyer, click here.
Photo submission deadline March 8.
Show off your talent and travel pictures by submitting up to three photos from your travel or study abroad experiences around the world.  The theme is “International Experiences”.  This contest is open to the whole SJSU community.  Digital entries only.  Email photos to alejandra.lizardo@sjsu.edu. Pick up an application at the IPS office, Clark 543 or download one here.  Winners will be announced on March 13 during the International House’s Coffee Night at 8:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, MARCH 11
International Pancake Breakfast | 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
International House, 360 South 11th St.
$5 Students / $10 Non-students / $25 Family of four
Join the campus and neighborhood communities to enjoy international foods, traditional dress worn by residents, and international entertainment.

MONDAY, MARCH 12

International Programs & Services Bowling Competition 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Bowling Center, Student Union
Free bowling party! Sign up at the IPS Office Clark 543 now – space is limited!  Table tennis and billiards available as well.

TUESDAY, MARCH 13
Study Abroad Fair | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Student Union, ground level
Check out information about 255 different overseas universities where you can study abroad! Pay SJSU tuition rates, get guaranteed SJSU credit for every class you take abroad! Go for a year, a semester or a summer.  SJSU Study Abroad alumni will be available to answer questions.

Fulbright Scholarship Information Session for Students | noon – 1 p.m.
Costanoan Room, Student Union
Come to learn about the Fulbright Scholarship opportunities for U.S. students abroad, hosted by International Programs and Services. Get a head start in anticipation of the opportunities for 2014-2015 to be announced in early May!

International Student Employment for Faculty & Staff | noon – 1 p.m.
Clark 547
This workshop for SJSU faculty and staff will review immigration rules and policies governing on and off campus work permission for F-1 International students.

F-1 Tax Workshop | 2 – 5 p.m.
Engineering 189
Learn about which tax forms international students need to submit to be in compliance with federal and California state tax laws.

Coffee Night | 8:30 – 10:30 p.m.
International House, 360 South 11th Street
Photo contest winners to be announced at 9pm.
Casual Open House for SJSU students.  Coffee Nights are a fun and interactive way to meet new American and international people from the surrounding community

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14
Beyond OPT Attorney Presentation | 2 – 4 p.m.
Washington Square Hall 109
Immigration Attorney Gali Gordon reviews work authorization avenues for students looking to work beyond the optional practical training period.

THURSDAY, MARCH 15
International Gateways Boulevard of Languages Reception | 5 – 6 p.m.
International Scholarship Fundraising Banquet |  6 – 8 p.m.
International House, 360 South 11 St.
Reservations required. Obtain reservation form. Banquet proceeds benefit the Louie Barozzi Scholarship Fund that rewards international students and study abroad participants for academic excellence and community service. Enter through the Boulevard of Languages, hosted by International Gateways, to a wine and hors d’oeuvres reception followed by dinner.

FRIDAY, MARCH 16
Happy Norooz Persian New Year | noon – 1 p.m.
Learn how it’s celebrated.
MOSAIC Cross Cultural Center, Student Union, second floor

Counseling Services and Resources for International Students | 2 – 3 p.m.
International House, 360 South 11 St.

SATURDAY, MARCH 17
Women of the World: Spotlight Afghanistan | 10 a.m. – noon
San Jose Public Library, Willow Glen Branch, 1157 Minnesota Ave.
Sponsored by American Association University Women San José Branch

In celebration of International Women’s Month, Najia Karim, founder of the Cultural Society of Afghan Women in the Bay Area and wife of SJSU President Mohammad Qayoumi, will be joined by CSAW members in presenting original artwork and poetry and a slide show contrasting Afghan women of the 1960s and now. Audience participants will receive English translations of three original Afghan poems by women artists. A reception will follow next door at the AAUW headquarters, 1165 Minnesota Ave.

SUNDAY, MARCH 18
Happy Persian New Year “Norooz” | 3 – 7 p.m.
Afternoon Tea and Celebration. Free tickets available at 3/16 Norooz event.

Café Pomegranate, 221 E. San Fernando St., will be transformed into the Happy Norooz spot to celebrate Persian New Year. Santa Claus may not be coming to town, but Baba Norooz will be there – with gifts!  Enjoy Persian teas, snacks, music, dancing, and a slide show.  There is no charge for the party.