The VISA Series (VCU International Student Achievement)
The VCU International Student Achievement (VISA) Series will consist of weekly, advisor-led
workshops, focused on topics relevant to the university’s F-1 students.
All workshops are virtual this semester.
geois@vcu.edu
(804) 828-0595
Spring 2024 Workshops
F-1 Employment |
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Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) We know that the training experience in your major gained through post-completion OPT can play a vital role in bringing to life the concepts learned in the classroom. We also know that applying for OPT and complying with OPT regulations can seem a bit daunting. These workshops are intended to help offer you clarity and confidence as you navigate the process. This workshop is intended for students who are graduating at the end of the current semester. Every Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. January 23rd - May 7* *Except for March 5, 2024 (Spring Break) Pre-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) Gaining hands-on professional experience prior to graduation can be vital for preparing students to enter/reenter the workforce. Pre-completion OPT authorization will permit you to engage in practical training in your field while simultaneously completing your coursework. This workshop is ideal for students with training opportunities that do not meet the academic requirements for CPT. February 6, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Register here March 27, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. Register Here
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a great option for students whose program of study requires participation in an experiential learning activity like an internship or who wish to take an internship-type class to satisfy a degree requirement. This workshop will cover the regulatory framework for engaging in academically-aligned practical training, eligibility criteria, and the process for requesting CPT authorization. January 25, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. Register Here February 8, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. Register Here February 21, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. Register here March 14, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. Register Here March 26, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. (noon) Register here
On-Campus Employment Working on campus is a great way to gain some valuable experience to add to your resume, engage with the campus community, and earn a bit of extra money. F-1 students interested in applying for on-campus employment are invited to attend this workshop to discuss their eligibility and get a list of resources to support their job search. January 11, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. (noon) Register here International Student Job Search Virtual Workshops The Job Search Learn where to search for jobs that international students will be eligible for. January 23, 2024 at 3:30 p.m. Register Here Co-presented with VCU Career Services The Resume Learn how to tailor a resume to highlight your strengths and put your best foot forward! February 22, 2024 at 3:30 p.m. Register Here Co-presented with VCU Career Services Interview Tips and Tricks Learn how to present yourself effectively in person and what skills to practice before your interview! March 20, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. Register Here Co-presented with VCU Career Services |
Maintaining F-1 Status |
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The Basics: Maintaining Your F-1 Status A key component to your success as an international student in the U.S. is understanding the F-1 regulations. In this workshop, we will provide a brief overview of the regulatory requirements for F-1 students and outline the processes for maintaining your SEVIS record and your F-1 status. January 18, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Register Here January 24, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. (noon) Register here F-1 Travel Traveling outside of the U.S. as an F-1 student requires a significant amount of pre-planning. This workshop will cover a number of travel-related topics, including the process for obtaining a travel signature, renewing an expired F-1 visa, and gathering the proper documentation to present upon reentry. Anyone looking to take a vacation or return home to visit friends and family is encouraged to attend. February 15, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. Register here February 27, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Register here April 10, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. Register here May 2, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Register Here
Deciding what to do after graduation can be a challenge for any student. For F-1 students, this comes with the added responsibility of maintaining your status. Our Post-Graduation Planning workshop will outline the options available to students completing their program of study at the end of the semester, including getting a new I-20 to begin a new degree program, transferring out, training and employment, and more! April 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. Register here April 24, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. Register here
All virtual workshops will be delivered using the Zoom platform. To access your VCU Zoom account, please visit vcu.zoom.us and log in with your VCU credentials. After you register, we recommend that you add your workshop details to the Gmail (Google) calendar associated with your student account. Instructions for importing Zoom meetings to your Gmail calendar can be found in the Zoom Support Center.
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