Life in Iowa is a program designed to assist international students in adjusting to life and the academic system here at the University of Iowa. It includes cultural events and academic sessions, as well as career series.

*All times on schedule are U.S. Central Time. For more information about these events, email isss-peer@uiowa.edu.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact Shuhui Lin in advance at 319-335-0335.

Demah AlGheithy jumping for joy on graduation day in front of UI flags

Upcoming Events

Life in Iowa: Museum Scavenger Hunt promotional image

Life in Iowa: Museum Scavenger Hunt

Saturday, August 17, 2024 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Old Capitol Museum
Join Life in Iowa for a scavenger hunt at the Old Capitol Museum to explore Iowa's history, win prizes, and connect with fellow UI students!
Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour

Thursday, August 29, 2024 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting August 29, 2024, Life in Iowa, hosted by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE), invite international students and scholars at the University of Iowa to join them for a weekly coffee hour.
Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour

Tuesday, September 3, 2024 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting August 29, 2024, Life in Iowa, hosted by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE), invite international students and scholars at the University of Iowa to join them for a weekly coffee hour.
Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour

Tuesday, September 10, 2024 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting August 29, 2024, Life in Iowa, hosted by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE), invite international students and scholars at the University of Iowa to join them for a weekly coffee hour.
Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

Life in Iowa ISSS x ISSE Weekly Coffee Hour

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:00pm to 3:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting August 29, 2024, Life in Iowa, hosted by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE), invite international students and scholars at the University of Iowa to join them for a weekly coffee hour.
Life in Iowa:  OPT Workshop promotional image

Life in Iowa: OPT Workshop

Wednesday, September 18, 2024 5:00pm to 6:30pm
Virtual
Join Life in Iowa for a comprehensive virtual Optional Practical Training (OPT) workshop, sponsored by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS).
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Resources

Employment Options

Find employment related resources for F-1 students here.

Mental Health Resources for International Students

Access information specific to your needs.

Video Resources

Optional Practical Training

How to create a LinkedIn profile 

How to connect with alumni via LinkedIn

Recurring Events

These events are held yearly.  Keep an eye on the event calendar to see when they are offered. 

  • Applying for Curricular Practical Training (CPT)/Optional Practical Training (OPT)
  • Trip to Cedar Rapids
  • Football 101
  • Work Visa Options After Graduation
  • Culture Shock and Reverse Culture Shock