Texas A&M University-Fall 2014 International Student Conference Program

International Student ConferenceFall 2014

Visit our office online at iss.tamu.edu!

2 International Student Conference

8:00am-8:30am

8:30am-9:00am

9:00am-9:45am

10:00am-10:45am

11:00am-11:45am

Registration and Breakfast Social

ISC Welcome

Insider Knowledge: How to Pay For College

An Introduction to University Libraries

Navigating the Texas A&M University System Student Health Insurance Plan

Answer to Impress: Surviving the U.S. Job Interview

Getting Involved in Aggieland: The World Beyond the Classroom

Rules of Engagement: Social Media Etiquette & Optimization

Love Knows No Boundaries: Dating in the U.S.

How to Prepare and Navigate an Aggie Career Fair

I’m a Sponsored Student....What about me?** Required For Sponsored Students

Classroom Culture Shock: Academic Success in a New Environment

Creating Your Professional Network for the Job Search

Thesis Preparation and Clearance: What You Need to Know

Families of International Students: Welcome to Aggieland!

2300

2300C

2300A

2300B

2300C

2300D

2300E

2300A

2300B

2300D

2300E

2300A

2300B

2300D

2300E

Break

Break

Conference AgendaSign-in Will Begin No Earlier Than 8:00am

Texas A&M University 3

11:45am-12:45pm

12:15pm-12:45pm

1:00pm-1:45pm

2:00pm-2:45pm

2:45pm-4:00pm

4:00pm-5:00pm

Pizza Lunch Social

I Didn’t Know That Was Cheating! Avoiding Academic Misconduct

Student Counseling Services: Supporting Your Success

Write a Scholarship Worthy Essay

U.S. Police: Keeping You Safe

Buying a Car and Getting a Driver’s License

Career Connections: The Job Search and Hiring Process

Aggie Culture 101: Understanding Aggie Traditions and Terminology

Avoiding the Plagiarism Trap

Community of Respect

Community Events: Filling Up Your Free Time

Resource Fair & Snack Social

Curricular Practical Training (CPT): What to Know Before You Apply **For all F-1 Students

Optional Practical Training (OPT): How to Successfully File for OPT **For all F-1 Students

Academic Training: What to Know Before You Apply ** For Current J-1 Students

Guide to On-Campus Employment for F-1 & J-1 Students

2300C

2300A

2300B

2300D

2300E

2300A

2300B

2300D

2300A

2300B

2300D

2300

2300A

2300B

2300D

2300E

Break

Break


*All information is subject to change*

Last Updated: 7/3/2014 Page 1 of 2

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Breakfast SocialCoffee and refreshments will be served outside of the Bethancourt Ballroom until all has been consumed.

Opening Remarks2300CHelp us kick off the conference with International Student Services and Texas A&M University Dean of Student Life, Dr. Anne Reber, for a special welcome session. It will be full of fun and the first 600 participants get a 12th Man Towel! Be early because you won’t want to miss it!

Insider Knowledge: How to Pay for College2300AThis session, brought to you by Money Wise Aggies, will discuss financial aid options available to international students. You will learn how to search for what is available, when and how to apply. Don’t wait until it’s too late; learn what financial assistance may be available to you now!

An Introduction to University Libraries2300BTexas A&M University Libraries serve both the research and study needs of students and faculty across campus. There are six libraries located on the College Station campus. Come to learn about the vast collections and free customized services offered to students at the Libraries. The presenter will provide an overview of services for graduate and undergraduate students, demonstrate how to find information for all majors, and discuss the use of the vast online and digital collections. Students are welcome to bring a laptop.

Navigating the Texas A&M University System Student Health Insurance Plan2300CThis session will include a discussion and time for students to ask questions and become informed about health care and medical insurance in the U.S. and how this pertains to you as an international student at Texas A&M. International Student Services, Student Health Services and the system student health insurance provider will be available to answer questions regarding health insurance for all international students.

8:00am - 8:30am

8:30am - 9:00am

9:00am - 9:45am

Session DescriptionsHave additional questions?

Visit the conference information table outside of 2300C.

10:00am - 10:45am


Answer to Impress: Surviving the U.S. Job Interview2300DDo you know what it takes to ace a job interview here in the U.S.? Come to this interactive session to learn tips and techniques on how to answer those tough interview questions. We will discuss topics including: how to prepare and research a company, how to negotiate salary and benefits, post interview follow-up, as well as how to address any future employment questions you may have. This session is sure to help you improve your interviewing technique!

Getting involved in Aggieland: The World Beyond the Classroom2300EParticipating in student activities and campus events helps you develop leadership skills, form great friendships, and enhance your competitive edge in the job search. Join us for this highly interactive session and learn more about how to get involved at Texas A&M!

Rules of Engagement:Social Media Etiquette and Optimization2300AEtiquette, it’s not just for dinner parties or impressing your future in-laws; it is an important factor in working with your professors, getting into universities, networking, and getting a job. Optimizing your social media presence is also an important factor in today’s society with educating yourself as well as opening potential doors for opportunity.

Love Knows No Boundaries:Dating in the U.S.2300BWhat do I do if I am interested in dating someone while I’m here in the U.S.? What terminology should I use to talk about dating? What is a typical first date in the U.S.? These are common questions that can be difficult to know in a new country. This session introduces U.S. dating norms, including the various types of dating along with guidelines on acceptable behavior, and presents a variety of resources to help you navigate the dating scene here in the U.S.!

11:00am - 11:45am


How to Prepare for & Navigate an Aggie Career Fair2300DGuess what? Career Fairs are a great way to network with company recruiters. Oh, and by the way…Fall 2014 Career Fairs begin the SECOND week of school!! YIKES! Don’t stress, though. This session will cover what to expect at the Career Fairs, how to prepare, and issues unique to international students to ensure that you feel confident and ready to impress recruiters.

I’m a Sponsored Student.... What about Me?2300EInternational sponsored students are those students who will be partially or entirely supported during their academic program for the cost of their tuition, fees, and/or living expenses by their governments, national or multinational companies, the government of the United States, or other third party entities such as Fulbright. This session will introduce you to the Sponsored Student Programs office and will provide you with important information about maintaining your nonimmigrant status. We will also discuss campus resources that will help you as a sponsored student. There will be time available for questions and answers.**This session is required for: All Sponsored Students

Classroom Culture Shock:Academic Success in a New Environment2300AThis session has been created to help international students understand and adjust to the culture of the U.S. classroom. Come to learn about unique aspects of U.S. higher

education such as the academic structure, classroom environments students can expect, and behavior expectations

among faculty and fellow students. This session is intended to help you maximize your experience at

Texas A&M by providing resources and information on adjusting to the U.S. higher education system.

Creating Your Professional Network for the Job Search2300BLearn how to create connections to those professionals who can help you the most in your job search. Identify key

resources available to you in the job search process, including the Aggie Network. After this session, students

should be able to identify the resources available on campus and how to access them. Students should have a general idea of how to implement these resources in the job search process.


Thesis Preparation and Clearance: What You Need to Know2300DThis session will help you plan effectively for your thesis or dissertation. Attendees will receive an overview of essential requirements and guidelines for a thesis/dissertation, obtain information about services offered, and discover electronic resources available.

Families of International Students: Welcome to Aggieland!2300EThis session is specifically for families (spouses and children) of international students. You will learn about the many community and campus resources that are available to your family, where and how you can make new friends, and other suggestions for an enriching experience in Aggieland. The session will include a brief overview of the immigration rules that apply to family members in F-2 or J-2 status. (While the session will be for an adult audience, please feel free to bring your children along).

Lunch 2300CPizza will be served in the Bethancourt Ballroom (2300C) starting at 11:45am. The following four sessions will be available from 12:15pm to 12:45pm. We encourage you to bring your pizza to one of these sessions or to take the lunch hour to explore the Memorial Student Center (MSC). No food permitted in the MSC Flag Room.

Student Counseling Services: Supporting Your Success2300BCome learn about the resources that the Texas A&M University Student Counseling Service (SCS) can offer you! Through counseling, our goal is to help international students achieve as much success as possible during your time in Aggieland. Join us as we discuss some common challenges faced by international students and learn about the academic, career, and personal counseling services available to you! The SCS also provides short-term counseling and crisis intervention services. SCS counseling staff incorporate into practice awareness, respect, and valuing of cultural differences.

12:15pm - 12:45pm

I Didn’t Know That Was Cheating! Avoiding Academic Misconduct2300ADo you understand Texas A&M’s definition of ‘plagiarism?’ What Texas A&M and the American education community consider academic misconduct is probably very different from what you have experienced in your educational career thus far. In this workshop, the Aggie Honor System Office will clearly define academic misconduct and provide tips to ensure you are avoiding mistakes that could cost you your academic career.

11:45am - 12:45pm


U.S. Police: Keeping You Safe2300ERepresentatives from the Bryan, College Station, and University Police Departments will offer an interactive discussion about the concept of “community policing” and their role in serving you as an international student at Texas A&M. Important rules and regulations as well as your rights will be discussed. Tips on protecting yourself and your identity will be offered.

Buying a Car and Getting a Driver’s License2300ADo you have any idea how to buy a car? Think that’s complicated…try getting your driver’s license! In this session you will learn the process of purchasing a car and what is required in order to obtain a Texas driver’s license, which is a must if you plan to purchase a car!

Career Connections: The Job Search and Hiring Process2300BWhat you should do now to maximize your chances of securing employment upon completion of your degree. Gain a greater understanding of the hiring process and how to navigate this process successfully. After this session, students should have a greater understanding of the steps necessary to fully utilize the resources available to them in the job search process and should have a clear understanding of the American hiring process.

1:00pm - 1:45pm

Texas A&M is a unique campus grounded in tradition. During your time on-campus you will hear sayings like “Howdy!” & “Gig ‘Em Aggies.” What do they mean? In this session, we will help you understand Aggie terminology

and culture while becoming familiar with the traditions of Texas A&M, such as The 12th Man, Reveille, Aggie Muster, Silver Taps, Aggie Bonfire, and The Aggie Ring. Join us for this fun, informative, and interactive session on how to get connected with the Aggie Spirit during your time in Aggieland!

Aggie Culture 101:Understanding Aggie Traditions and Terminology 2300D

Write a Scholarship-Worthy Essay 2300DEver have difficulty writing an essay? Add to that the pressure of writing an essay in the hopes of receiving a scholarship, and if you are like most students, you’ll cringe at the thought. Lucky for you the Texas A&M University Writing Center is here to help! In this session, the University Writing Center will share tips and tools that will make your scholarship application stand out.


Avoiding the Plagiarism Trap2300ACiting sources is the responsibility of every scholar. Failure to do so correctly can get you into serious trouble. The Texas A&M University Writing Center can help you understand when and what to cite, how to document sources, and where to find help with citing.

Community of Respect2300BJoin current students who will talk about being part of the Aggie Family and how you contribute to a Community of Respect. This session is a fun insight to learn about diversity and cultural differences at Texas A&M! We hope you can join us for thisinteraction session presented by The Department of Multicultural Services.

Community Events: Filling Up Your Free Time2300DWant to know about local events and attractions? During this session, we will share upcoming events and festivals for you and your family to enjoy in the Bryan/College Station area. Come and find out what your new community has to offer and what you won’t want to miss this year!

From 2:45pm-3:30pm, Ms. Reveille will be in

the lobby outside of 2300C!

Reveille will only be with us at ISC for a short time. Therefore, ISS will be taking all photographs and you can access them at facebook.com/TAMUISS.

Would you like to meet Reveille VIII, the first lady of Aggieland?

2:00pm - 2:45pm


Resource Fair and Snack Social2300CGrab a snack and explore the Resource Fair for information and free giveaways from on and off campus resources! The Resource Fair tables are located in the Bethancourt Ballroom (2300C) and throughout the hallways on the 2nd floor of MSC outside the Stark Art Gallery! Be sure to mingle in both areas so you don’t miss out!

Premiere Sponsor: Campus ViewAcademic Health Plans (AHP)

Briarwood ApartmentsCollege Station Ridge, Ltd.Reveille Ranch Bryan, Ltd.

Aggie Baptist Student MinistryAggie Cricket Club

Aggie International AmbassadorsA&M International Fellowship (AMIF)

Bangladesh Student OrganizationBridges International

Chinese Students & Scholars AssociationGraduate Student Council

Aggie Honor System OfficeAssociation of Former Students

BCS Convention & Visitors BureauBryan Police Department

CBP – Agriculture Quarantine InspectionCollege Station Police Department

DiscoveryDisability ServicesEmployee Benefits

GLBT Resource CenterInternational Spouses Forum

Memorial Student CenterOffice of Sustainability

Offices of the Dean of Student Life

Sausalito College Station, Ltd.Sundance College Station, Ltd.

The Tradition at NorthgateThe Trails at Wolf Pen Creek

Wells Fargo

India AssociationIndian Graduate Students Association

International Student AssociationInternational Student Mentor AssociationStudent Conference on National Affairs

SGA Diversity CommissionSPICMCAY

OGAPSScholarships and Financial AidStudent Counseling Services

Student Employment: Money Wise AggiesStudent Health Services

Texas A&M Athletics DepartmentTexas A&M Career Center

Texas A&M Emergency Care TeamTexas A&M University Police Department

Texas Department of Public SafetyU.S. Department of Agriculture

University LibrariesUniversity Writing Center

2:45pm - 4:00pm

Sponsors

Student Organizations

Additional Departments & Organizations

Additional resource fair participants can be see online at Tx.ag/TAMUISC!


Guide to On-Campus Employment for F-1 and J-1 Students2300EOn-campus jobs are a great way to help pay for your education and build your resume for the U.S. workforce. This session will give an overview of how to find on-campus jobs, and explain the rules for on-campus employment that are specific to your F-1 or J-1 student status. We will also discuss how to obtain a Social Security Number and why you need a GLACIER account.

The International Student Conference is proud to be a part of Gig’Em Week! Visit them online at

gigemweek.tamu.edu.2014

Curricular Practical Training (CPT): What to Know Before You Apply2300AThis session will explain the basics of CPT, a type of work authorization that allows F-1 students to participate in internships required by their course of study. The presentation will explain under what conditions a student can apply for CPT, and what the student must do in order to obtain CPT authorization and maintain it. Many helpful tips and suggestions will be provided.**This session is intended for: F-1 students

Academic Training: What to Know Before You Apply2300DThis interactive session will explain Academic Training, the off campus work authorization avaliable to J-1 students, including what is required in order to obtain, and maintain, Academic Training authorization. Many helpful tips and suggestions will be provided.**This session is intended for: J-1 students

Optional Practical Training (OPT): How to Successfully File for OPT2300BThis interactive session will focus on the basics about OPT and show you how to request an OPT recommendation from ISS and also how to successfully assemble your OPT application before mailing it to the U.S. government. We will discuss the requirements for OPT and offer many helpful tips and suggestions. Students who apply for OPT are required to attend an in person workshop or complete the online OPT workshop on the ISS website. Attending this workshop will fulfill this necessary step in applying for the OPT recommendation from ISS.**This session is intended for: F-1 students

4:00pm - 5:00pm


Additional Conference SponsorsThanks and Gig’Em!

S ASausalitoApartments

The RIDGE Sundance

Premiere Sponsor:


Katy MearsAssistant Director

Bill TaylorDirector, International Student Services

-Not Pictured-Violetta Cook

Director, Sponsored Student Programs

Amy WinnAdministrative Coordinator

Amanda BrinleeSenior International Student Advisor

Angela SanchezLead Office Associate

Nancy BarnesLead Office Associate

Melissa PegnaInternational Student Advisor I

Audrey CorteInternational Student Advisor I

Natasha SevignySponsored Student Advisor I

Lesley VaculinInternational Student Advisor II

Marisa ErnstInternational Student Advisor II

Elenora HaagSenior Sponsored Student Advisor

Samantha ClementSenior International Student Advisor

Brandi MathisSenior Office Assistant

Alyssa SmithSenior Office Assistant

Kristina ReyesLead Office Associate

Meet the StaffThe ISS staff is here to serve you!

Are you enjoying this ISC?

All students are encouraged to attend every ISC for new sessions, great giveaways, and more fun!

Mark your calendar for the Spring ISC on January 15, 2015.


Special ThanksThe ISC would not be possible without your help.

University Center & Special EventsMelissa Lucas

University Center Staff

Conference Planning TeamAndrew Karl

Boone ClemmonsChesney Branson

Katy MearsLesley VaculinMelissa Pegna

Samantha Clement

Regular Office Hours:Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Campus Location:1st Floor Bizzell Hall East

1226 TAMU College Station, Texas 77843-1226

Contact:Phone: 979-845-1824

Fax: 979-862-4633Email: [email protected]

How to Contact International Student Services We look forward to hearing from you!


Aggie TerminologyGet to know Texas A&M!

Aggie Honor Code: All students are expected to adhere to the code that “An Aggie does not lie, cheat or steal, or tolerate those who do.” Aggie Spirit: Indefinable until you experience it, but essentially it is the overwhelming feeling of pride and unity that Aggies (current, former, and future) feel for each other and for their university.Aggieland: (1) Home of the Fightin’ Texas Aggies; (2) Texas A&M’s yearbookFish Camp: A four-day student-led orientation program that teaches freshmen the traditions of A&M, prepares them for college life, and gives them the opportunity to meet fellow freshmen as well as the upperclassmen who run it.Fish: A freshman undergraduate student.Fish Pond: The fountain across the street from the All Faith’s Chapel. Fish Pond is involved in a few of Texas A&M traditions.Gig ‘Em: Both a saying and the official hand sign of Texas A&M. The hand sign is made, usually in conjunction with the saying, by current and former students of Texas A&M as a sign of affiliation.Howdy!: The official greeting of Texas A&M. “Howdy” is what sets Texas A&M apart as the friendliest campus in the world! If someone says “howdy” to you, you are expected to return a “howdy.”Muster: Held annually on April 21, Aggies “muster” (come together) to honor those Aggies who have died in the last year. The largest Muster ceremony takes place in Reed Arena in College Station, but hundreds of smaller ceremonies are held worldwide on that day.Reveille: “Rev” is the most revered dog on campus and is the official mascot of Texas A&M. She is the highest-ranking member of the Corps of Cadets and is a Five-Star General.Silver Taps: A ceremony held in Academic Plaza on the first Tuesday of every month to honor graduate and undergraduate students who have died in the previous month. Students gather at the Sul Ross statue while the Ross Volunteers march into the Plaza and fire a 21-gun salute. Buglers then play a special rendition of Silver Taps three times for the fallen Aggies.Sully: Short for former Texas A&M president, Lawrence Sullivan Ross, the term usually refers to the statue of Ross that stands in Academic Plaza. Students typically place a penny at his feet for good luck on exams.Twelfth Man: The entire student body. The 12th man represents the spirit of readiness to support and serve their team. This is why students stand during the football games; we are ready to be called upon if needed.Whoop!: An exclamation of approval or excitement. Juniors and seniors are the only classes allowed to “whoop.”Yell Leader: Texas A&M does not have cheerleaders. Instead, we have yell leaders who are the official spirit organization of the university; they lead Aggie fans in “yells” during athletic events and other school events.


Notes:

2300 E

2300 D

2300 A

2300 B

2300 C

Get ConnectedArea

Volunteer & Presenter Registration

InformationTable

ConferenceRegistration

Additional Resource Fair Tables

START HERE

WELCOMELUNCH

RESOURCE FAIR

Conference MapMemorial Student Center

2nd Floor

We hope you will make time to.... “Get Connected”

while you are at the ISC today! Stop by the Get Connected Area outside of 2300C to:

• Use our hashtag #TAMUISC

• Take a “selfie” photo to share online

• Participate in the ISC photo contest

• “Like” us on Facebook: /TAMUISS

• “Follow” us on Twitter and Instagram: @TAMUISS & /TAMUISS

• Join the ISS Listserv at iss.tamu.edu

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Texas A&M University-Fall 2014 International Student Conference Program

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