Summer 2022 Orientation

2022 Summer Orientation

Welcome to Michigan! The International Center staff is excited to welcome you to campus.

Below you’ll find a comprehensive list of orientation events and resources that will be available to support you as you begin your journey as a new student at the University of Michigan. Events will be held both in-person and virtually this summer. Here is an overview of what will be offered:

More details about how to access each of these opportunities can be found below.

 

“Ask Me!” Q&A Sessions

“Ask Me!” Q&A sessions are informal peer-led question-and-answer sessions in which new international students can ask our Summer Orientation Peer Advisors questions and connect with other new students. 

Please note that because this event is led by student staff, we are unable to answer immigration related questions.

Dates:

 

Blogs & Videos

The Summer Orientation Peer advisors will be writing blog posts and creating short videos to document their personal stories and share useful tips with new students. Content from 2022 will be available in early August! 

 

Canvas Course for new students: International Center Summer Orientation 2022

All incoming international students and scholars are encouraged to join our Canvas course, which will feature slides, resources, and - in many cases - videos from presentations that will be given as part of our virtual workshop series. See below for details about workshops that will be offered during the 2022 Summer Orientation.

Join our Canvas Course

 

Social Events

The International Center will be offering several in-person social events in August, which will be led by Summer Orientation Peer Advisors. Events include informal walking tours of Central and North campuses, hiking in the Arb, a visit to Kerrytown and the Farmer’s Market and more!. Registration is required.

Register Here

 

Welcome Desk: In-Person Office Hours

Starting on Monday, August 15, Summer Orientation Peer Advisers will staff an in-person Welcome Desk outside of the International Center in the lobby of the Student Activities Building. Stop by to say hi and get questions about life in Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan answered by fellow international students. 

  • Week of August 15th:
    • Monday - Thursday: 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm
    • Friday: 10am-12pm and 1pm-2pm (Ending an hour early so that peer advisors can attend the Ice Cream Social - join us!)
  • Week of August 22nd:
    • Monday - Thursday: 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm
    • Friday: 9am-12pm

 

Workshop Presentations (Virtual and In-Person)

Workshops Presented by International Center Summer Orientation Peer Advisors

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Conversations

P2P Conversations connect our Summer Orientation Peer advisors with new international students and offer an opportunity for new students around the world to meet each other.

Through a series of virtual sessions, our Peer advisors will provide information and resources based on their personal experiences and answer questions from new students. Each session starts with a presentation on a specific topic and then is followed by a Q&A.

You may register as many sessions as you are interested in by using either the registration link. Register to view Zoom livestream information and receive a confirmation email. The presentations and recordings will be available in the International Center Summer Orientation Canvas Site after the sessions.

Register Here

Topics include:

  • Cultural Differences in the Classroom
  • How to Navigate through Canvas
  • Things to do in Ann Arbor
  • Housing & Setting Up Household Utilities
  • Healthy Relationships & Dating in the U.S.
  • Health and Wellness
  • Banking and Budgeting
  • Transportation
  • Shopping
  • Buying a Car / Getting a Driver’s License
  • Social Justice in the U.S.
  • Working & Communicating with Academic Advisors
  • Finding a Job on Campus
  • Personal Safety

Workshops Presented by other University Departments and Partners

We are also happy to offer a number of workshops offered by staff from departments and organizations on and nearby campus! You may register for as many sessions as you are interested in.

Register Here

You can also view a full list of these sessions here.

Academic Small Talk by the English Language Institute (ELI)

Description: Making small talk is one of the most challenging types of speaking to master in a second language. In this workshop, we will explore conversation topics, turn-taking strategies, active listening, and sources for sample conversations. We will consider different varieties of small talk in common graduate student contexts, such as getting to know classmates or seeming friendly and confident at a job interview or as a GSI. Come ready to practice with one another and to identify effective ways to practice on your own.

NOTE: This is an interactive workshop, so please come prepared to participate! 

This workshop is presented by the English Language Institute (ELI).

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Location Registration
Tuesday, August 23, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here
An Introduction to the English Language Institute (ELI) for Graduate and Professional Students

Description: Anna Eddy from the U-M English Language Institute (ELI) invites you to a Zoom conversation to learn about ELI courses and other resources to support graduate students who speak English as an additional language. 

ELI offers credit-bearing academic English courses (free to full-time students) to support you through all stages of your academic career. ELI classes are small, interactive, and provide students with extensive one-on-one feedback. 

In addition, the ELI also offers one-on-one speaking and writing support, opportunities for informal language practice, and one-time workshops. 

ELI can help you communicate effectively and excel in your coursework and research. We look forward to meeting you!

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Registration
Thursday, August 11, 2022 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM Register Here
Banking in the USA presented by PNC Bank

Description: For international students, opening a bank account in the U.S. helps provide greater ease and efficiency in managing finances during college. Learn how banking in the U.S. can provide a safe, convenient way to transfer, track and budget money securely and conveniently, including financial aid and money from home.

Special Note about the In-Person Sessions: Please read the description on the registration page carefully for information about where to meet, including an option to walk to PNC bank along with other students. In-person sessions will offer attendees the opportunity to open up bank accounts with PNC after the information session concludes. This is optional.

This workshop is co-sponsored by PNC Bank.

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Location Registration
Monday, August 8, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Virtual Register Here
Thursday, August 11, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Virtual Register Here
Tuesday, August 16, 2022 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM PNC Ann Arbor Downtown Branch (101 S. Main Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104) Register Here
Wednesday, August 17, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM PNC Ann Arbor Downtown Branch (101 S. Main Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104) Register Here
Benefits Overview for Graduate Students (GSI/GSRA/Fellowship Holder)

Description: If you are a new Graduate Student Instructor (GSI) or Graduate Student Research Assistant (GSRA) or a student whose fellowship will include GradCare insurance, come to this workshop for a brief explanation about how insurance works in the U.S., followed by information about selecting and using your insurance plan, including information about some important deadlines. The insurance coverage and other benefits you receive as a GSI/GSRA are very valuable but can be confusing -- this is your chance to learn from experts.

This workshop is co-sponsored by the Benefits Office.

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Registration
Monday, August 15, 2022 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Register Here
Driving the U.S. presented by AAA

Description: Are you new to driving in the United States? Driving conditions and customs may be different than what you are used to in your home country. This workshop will provide information to help you prepare for driving in the U.S., including driving tips, driving etiquette, and important skills to keep you safe on the roads in good and bad weather.

This workshop is co-sponsored by Michigan AAA.

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Registration
Monday, August 15, 2022 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Register Here
How to Use the UM's International Insurance Plan

Description: This presentation will cover detailed information about how to use the University's required health insurance (the International Student/Scholar Health Insurance Plan). You'll learn how and where to obtain medical treatment if you need it and how to avoid unnecessary expenses by understanding how this health insurance works.

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Location Registration
Tuesday, August 9, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Virtual Register Here
Thursday, August 18, 2022 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here
How to Use the University Health Service (UHS) featuring Legend the Therapy Dog!

Description: From 2:30 PM - 3:00 PM, University Health Service (UHS) staff will describe campus health care services available to students and scholars, how to use services, and how services relate to insurance, followed by a visit from Legend, the therapy dog, from 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM.

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Location Registration
Thursday, August 18, 2022 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here
International Spouses/Partners Event Series

Description: As a spouse/partner of a student, you may be asking yourself what you are going to do while here in the United States. Come to this event series to learn about some of the possibilities and meet other spouses/partners!

All three events will be led by the Michigan Language Center (MLC).

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Event Date Time Location Registration
Orientation & Networking Event Tuesday, August 23, 2022 1:00 PM 2:00 PM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here
Everyday English Workshop Thursday, August 25, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Michigan Language Center (715 E. Huron Street) Register Here
Tour of Ann Arbor Thursday, August 25, 2022 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Starts @ Michigan Language Center (715 E. Huron Street) Register Here
It's Not Just a Good Idea…It's the Law!

Description: Every country has norms for what is acceptable and unacceptable, and similarly for what is legal and illegal in that particular country. This session will offer important information on what is and is not permitted in the United States. Learn this information now; don’t risk being embarrassed, or even fined or arrested! 

The session will also include a brief overview of landlord-tenant law, including information about what your landlord is and is not permitted to do, and your rights and obligations as a tenant. Avoid possible problems and prepare for a good relationship with your landlord by learning this important information now.

This workshop is co-sponsored by Student Legal Services (SLS).

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well. 

Date Time Location Registration
Tuesday, August 16, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here
Wednesday, August 24, 2022 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here
Leadership Opportunities at U-M

Description: Interested in leadership training while at U-M? Join this workshop to learn more about M-LEAD and its offerings to students. M-LEAD is the University's collaborative approach to leadership education for students with a focus on social change. M-LEAD can help students find their perfect program based on competencies and interests. To learn more about M-LEAD in advance, you can visit its website.

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Location Registration
Wednesday, August 17, 2022 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here
Stress Less for Success

Description: The psychologists at the Counseling and Psychological Services will explain what stress is, discuss stressful experiences that international students may go through, talk about mental health and how to get help​,​ and provide ​tools to manage stress. ​

This workshop is co-sponsored by Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). 

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Location Registration
Wednesday, August 24, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here
Technology Services and Resources on Campus by Information and Technology Services (ITS)

Description: Information and Technology Services (ITS) is your campus IT provider. They cover all student tech needs, from registering for classes and course work in Canvas to email, WiFi, Wolverine Access, and videoconferencing.

Join this presentation by two ITS staff members to learn about all of the technology services and resources available on campus!

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Registration
Thursday, August 18, 2022 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Register Here
U-M Library Basics (Central Campus)

Description: Gain insight into the resources and services available at the library and learn strategies for efficiently finding information for your research projects. 

Join a U-M Librarian as the questions below are explored:

  • How can I access library resources remotely or in person?
  • What kind of technology help can I get at the library?
  • How can I find scholarly books and articles?
  • What are some of the research tools the library provides that may help me with my research?

Students and scholars may attend either the Central Campus or North Campus workshop, but the North Campus workshop will be of most interest to engineering, art, and architecture students. This session is specifically for international students and scholars and is co-sponsored by the International Center and the U-M Library.

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Registration
Friday, August 12, 2022 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Register Here
Friday, August 19, 2022 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Register Here
U-M Library Basics (North Campus)

Description: Gain insight into the resources and services available at the U-M Library and learn strategies for efficiently finding information for your research projects.

Join a U-M Librarian as the questions below are explored:

  • How can I access library resources remotely or in person?
  • What kind of technology help can I get at the library?
  • How can I find scholarly books and articles?
  • What are some of the research tools the library provides that can help me with my research?

Students and scholars may attend either the Central Campus or North Campus workshop. The North Campus workshop will be taught by engineering librarians with a focus on engineering resources.

This session is specifically for international students and scholars and is co-sponsored by the International Center and the U-M Library.

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Registration
Wednesday, August 17, 2022 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Register Here
U-M Library Basics in Chinese

Description: This workshop is for international students and scholars who speak Chinese. Gain insight into the resources and services available at the library and learn strategies for efficiently finding information for your research projects.

Join our Chinese Studies Librarian to explore the following questions:

  • How can I access library resources remotely or in person?
  • What kind of technology help can I get at the library?
  • How can I find scholarly books and articles?
  • What are some of the research tools the library provides that may help me with my research?

This session is co-sponsored by the International Center and the U-M Library.

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Registration
Thursday, August 25, 2022 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Register Here
U.S. Tax Withholding Forms (for Students only)

Description: This orientation workshop is designed for all U-M international employees (including international students who will work for U-M), and for students who will receive fellowships that pay for living expenses (not just tuition.)

Before you start work, you will be asked to fill out a number of forms, including Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form W-4, State of Michigan Form W-4, the "Alien Certificate", and perhaps other forms if your country has a tax treaty with the United States.

During this workshop, a representative from the U-M Payroll Office will explain how to fill out these forms so that you can be sure you are filling them out correctly. The Payroll Office representative will also explain the tax-related documents that you as a U-M employee can expect to receive from the Payroll Office and when you can expect to receive them. The workshop will conclude with a brief introduction to the ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) and an explanation of who does and does not need to apply for the ITIN.

This workshop is co-sponsored by the Payroll Office.

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Location Registration
Friday, August 19, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here
Monday, August 22, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here
Writing Effective Emails by the English Language Institute (ELI)

Description: Have you ever struggled to write important email messages? Have you ever wondered whether your email messages hit the right tone and reflect the professional persona you wish to project? Given the importance of email in academic and professional settings, the ability to write effective e-mail messages is an essential skill. In this workshop we will focus on strategies for writing clear, effective and professional email. We will discuss the aspects of email that make it likely to be read, to be easily understood, and to create a good impression. 

NOTE: This is an interactive workshop, so please come prepared to participate!

This workshop is presented by the English Language Institute (ELI).

This session is being offered as part of International Orientation; however, registration is open to continuing students, as well.

Date Time Location Registration
Thursday, August 18, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Ross School of Business, Room B0560 Register Here