As part of ongoing efforts to support and enhance the international student experience, the Division of Enrollment and the Student Experience has launched new initiatives this semester to strengthen international student support and promote, engage and celebrate our international community of students, scholars, staff and faculty.
International Students Welcome Dinner
At the start of the academic year, new international students were welcomed by the Welcome Ambassadors International team. The ambassador team helped support incoming international students throughout Syracuse Welcome by engaging in orientation events, answering questions and leading small group activities.
Throughout the year, students can also expect new programs centered on career development, academic support, and health and wellness to meet the unique needs of international students. Additionally, the Connections Mentoring Program has expanded to provide more long-term mentoring opportunities for new students, and leadership opportunities for current international students who want to serve as mentors.
The expanded programs and services were an exciting aspect of the position according to the new director of the Center for International Services, Juan Tavares, who joined Syracuse University this summer.
“One of the many reasons I looked forward to joining Syracuse University was the opportunity to build upon the deep commitment to, and celebration of the vibrancy of, our global community. In speaking with students and other campus community members throughout the summer, we have developed and planned new initiatives that further support and promote the richly diverse community we have here on campus and across the world,” says Tavares.
Another of those new initiatives is the University’s inaugural International Festival planned for Nov. 3 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel & Conference Center. The festival will provide community members the opportunity to experience music, food, dance, culture and fashion from around the world through booth displays and performances brought to life by student cultural organizations.
For more information about international services, support and programs, visit the Center for International Services website.
