Among ongoing preparations for the fall semester, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) has selected eight students to form the International Orientation Team (IOT).
These students are responsible for ensuring that the fall 2016 cohort of incoming international students are warmly welcomed to campus and have a strong support base as they acclimate to life at Illinois State University, Bloomington-Normal, and the United States at large. This is a responsibility that has not been taken lightly. The IOT underwent an intense two-day training that consisted of team-building activities, community and campus tours, and lectures and presentations intended to enhance their cultural awareness, knowledge of campus, and leadership and communication skills.
Throughout the summer, each incoming international student will receive multiple emails from their designated IOT leader. These will be among the first of their interactions with the student body of Illinois State University, and serve the dual purpose of helping them feel welcomed before they even set foot on campus, as well as ensuring that they are prepared to successfully begin the semester when they arrive in August.
International Student Orientation will take place on August 16 and 17. The IOT will be in charge of assisting with activities and providing guidance to international students, during the event. Team members will also lead walking and bus tours of Illinois State University and Bloomington-Normal. On the tours, students will be familiarized with the academic buildings of campus, International House, local shopping and cuisine, and the Connect Transit system. These tours will provide excellent opportunities for international students to receive answers to any questions they may have and help them feel more at home in their surroundings. Orientation will also include a shopping trip to the local Walmart, a breakfast social, welcome reception, and much more.
