Life in Iowa invites international students to attend the Work Visa Options After Graduation workshop on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, from 3:30 – 5 p.m.

A collaboration between UI International Programs and the UI Human Resources Learning & Development team, Building Our Global Community (BGC) is a certificate program for faculty and staff to better interact with and support international students and scholars.

Akalanka B. Ekanayake, a fourth-year PhD student in chemistry at the University of Iowa, originates from Sri Lanka. His journey to Iowa was motivated by the university's renowned chemistry program and the opportunity to work with leading researchers in the field.

This workshop will provide valuable insights into U.S. payroll and tax procedures to avoid common pitfalls and manage your finances effectively. This is a great opportunity to learn from experts and clarify any questions you might have.

Whether you are new on campus or resuming your studies at Iowa, here are five tips to help you start off on the right foot in the new academic year. 

The virtual Optional Practical Training (OPT) workshop, sponsored by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), takes place on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, from 5 - 6:30 p.m. (CDT).

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 every Thursday from 2 to 3 p.m. (CT) at T.Spoons coffee shop in the University Capitol Centre.

Join Life in Iowa at the Old Capitol Museum for a scavenger hunt on Saturday, August 17, 2024. Explore the history of the State of Iowa, the University of Iowa, engage with other students, and win prizes.

Meng Zhou, originally from China, earned his PhD in informatics from the University of Iowa and has embarked on a new role as an assistant scientist at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Dimitri, an undergraduate at the University of Iowa studying English and creative writing, hails from Malaysia. Like high school students worldwide, Dimitri wasn't certain about his desired field of study in college. Initially, he aspired to become a paleontologist, scouring for dinosaur fossils solo. Later, his ambitions shifted towards becoming a singer-songwriter akin to Miley Cyrus. To craft songs, he began writing lyrics, which gradually led him to poetry, and subsequently, to prose and storytelling.

Jongkwan Yun, sport and recreation management major, is currently interning in the operations and promotions department of the Iowa Cubs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, through curricular practical training (CPT).

"As an international student, I've received incredible support and resources from the university. From language assistance to cultural adaptation programs, the university has gone above and beyond to ensure my success."