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

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour

Wednesday, April 2, 2025 11:30am to 12:30pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting Jan. 22, 2025, 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 every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at T.Spoons coffee shop in the University Capitol Centre. Enjoy a (free!) coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and engage in casual conversations with students, staff, and campus and community...
International Student Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour

Wednesday, April 9, 2025 11:30am to 12:30pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting Jan. 22, 2025, 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 every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at T.Spoons coffee shop in the University Capitol Centre. Enjoy a (free!) coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and engage in casual conversations with students, staff, and campus and community...
Spring Activity Night promotional image

Spring Activity Night

Friday, April 11, 2025 5:00pm to 6:30pm
Field House
Are you looking for something new and fun to do with your friends? Spring Active Night is the perfect event to take a break from the stress of school, work, and exams while having fun with friends. Through this event, you can enjoy a variety of physical games and activities that not only help you unwind but also connect with others and build community.Whether you are looking to try new games, engage in physical activities for stress relief, or just enjoy a fun evening, this event is a great way...
International Student Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour

Wednesday, April 16, 2025 11:30am to 12:30pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting Jan. 22, 2025, 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 every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at T.Spoons coffee shop in the University Capitol Centre. Enjoy a (free!) coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and engage in casual conversations with students, staff, and campus and community...
International Student Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour

Wednesday, April 23, 2025 11:30am to 12:30pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting Jan. 22, 2025, 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 every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at T.Spoons coffee shop in the University Capitol Centre. Enjoy a (free!) coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and engage in casual conversations with students, staff, and campus and community...
International Student Weekly Coffee Hour promotional image

International Student Weekly Coffee Hour

Wednesday, April 30, 2025 11:30am to 12:30pm
University Capitol Centre
Starting Jan. 22, 2025, 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 every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at T.Spoons coffee shop in the University Capitol Centre. Enjoy a (free!) coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and engage in casual conversations with students, staff, and campus and community...
View more events

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