Students from many parts of the world choose majors in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences. There are many college and university resources available to aid international students in making the adjustment to living and studying on a large campus like the University of Maryland. Use of these resources at the appropriate times may improve academic and cultural development significantly.
College Resources:
Academic Advising for International Students
International students often face academic, social, legal (i.e., visa problems) and financial difficulties. The college's advising center has advisors who are specifically trained to assist international students. Appointments can be made by contacting the Advising Center at 5-1697 and requesting an advisor who specializes in issues faced by international students.
University Resources:
International Education Services (IES)
International Education Services, which includes the university's Study Abroad Office, is a highly centralized unit with wide-ranging responsibilities. IES works closely with international students who apply to the university and orients them to campus once they have been admitted. After admission, IES continues to work closely with students to familiarize them with the U.S. system of higher education and the University of Maryland in particular. IES sponsors workshops for students that cover immigration issues, taxes, health insurance, career planning and home country re-entry. Students can learn more about these services and many others by visiting IES, which is located in Mitchell Building, Room 3116 or by calling 4-7740. Visit their website.
Global Communities
Global Communities, located within Dorchester Hall, is an exciting living experience, rich in cultural diversity and academic enhancement. Students from more than 30 countries and the United States, representing a variety of cultural backgrounds, come together to form an international community. These undergraduate residents share a common desire to build bridges of cooperation and understanding between cultures. Upon completion of the academic portion of the program and development of a portfolio of global skills, students will receive a Global Competencies notation on their transcript. For more information call 4-7100 or visit their website.
Maryland English Institute
The Maryland English Institute (MEI) provides English language instruction and assessment at the postsecondary level for non-native speakers who wish to learn English for academic, professional or personal reasons. MEI provides rigorous courses of study in a positive and supportive learning community that promotes cross-cultural understanding. For additional information contact the Maryland English Institute at 5-8634 or stop by their office located at 1121 Holzapfel Hall. Visit the website.
Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Education
The Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Education (OMSE) provides academic support programs and services to enhance the recruitment, retention and graduation of multi-ethnic students at the University of Maryland. OMSE is located in Hornbake Library, Room 1101. Its academic support programs include a tutorial service, mentoring programs, academic classes that develop college success skills and more. For additional information call 5-5616 or visit their website.
Reminder about Visas
Many students enter the United States with student visas and must maintain their status as a student to legally remain in the country. Students should check with the International Education Service to be certain of the academic and other requirements for maintaining status. Students who have F-1 student visas must be particularly vigilant in order to maintain their status. For further information regarding student visas please refer students to the International Education Services office at 4-7740.
