Dear International Students,
Congratulations on reaching the end of an extraordinary academic year. There have been many challenges this past year. However, you have all risen to the occasion and responded with determination. All of us in ISSS are so proud of each and every one of you. Your tenacity and commitment are admirable. Your continued resilience is noteworthy. We are so proud of you, our Global Spartans.
With the end of the academic year in sight, I do want to reflect and highlight some of the positives this past semester. ISSS has been able to award our international students with multiple scholarships (Global Spartan scholarship, Louie Barozzi scholarship) this past spring and for the new academic year. Three of our students were awarded the Institute of International Education’s (IIE) Emergency Student Fund. We have highlighted some of these students and will highlight others in future blogs. We continue to find ways to support you through our virtual advising, workshops and co-curricular programming. Our Global Leaders and peer mentors continue to provide peer to peer support. The ISSS team members are constantly looking at ways to engage you and to ensure your success.
Some of you may plan to travel over the summer, while others will stay here. At this time, ISSS would recommend that you refrain from traveling abroad, if possible. If you do travel abroad, please make sure to review this information carefully. We also recommend reviewing the information on this page and to consult with ISSS by emailing us at international-office@sjsu.edu if you have any questions.
Please also keep in mind that for fall 2021, as currently matriculated students in F-1 status, you may enroll in all online classes from abroad or here in the U.S. and continue to maintain your F-1 status. You can read more by going here. In addition, we will message you in the summer, as we learn more about CSU vaccination requirements. We are awaiting further guidance from the Chancellor’s Office. The ISSS team will start a gradual return to campus this fall, with a few team members on campus daily. We will share more information, as our plans solidify.
As you enter the final stretch of this semester-long marathon, stay strong and focused. We know you will not only make it to the finish line but you will do so with much success. We hope that you take time to pause, reflect and rejuvenate over the summer months. Please know that all of us will be available to you over the summer and beyond. We look forward to reconnecting with some of you in person in the fall.
Warm regards,
Parinaz Zartoshty, Director of ISSS