Summer 2024 International Center Orientation

2024 Summer Orientation

Welcome to Michigan! The International Center staff is excited to welcome you to the University of Michigan community.

Below you will 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. Here is an overview of what will be offered:

  • Blogs & videos written by International Summer Orientation Peer Advisors
  • A Canvas course with resources, videos, and slides from presentations
  • Social events through which you can meet other new international students
  • A “Welcome Desk” staffed by International Orientation Peer Advisors to address your general questions (not immigration-related questions)
  • Virtual and In-Person presentations on a wide range of topics related to life in Ann Arbor and at the University of Michigan.
  • An event series especially geared towards spouses and partners of international students.
  • Check out the Life in Ann Arbor section of the International Center’s website for more information about local resources and getting settled in Ann Arbor.

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

 

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 2024 will be available in early August! 

 

Canvas Course for new students: International Center Summer Orientation 2024

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 2024 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! Events will begin in mid-August. 

Register Here

 

Welcome Desk: In-Person Office Hours

Starting on Monday, August 12, 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 12th:
    • Monday - Friday: 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm
  • Week of August 19th:
    • Monday: 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm
    • Tuesday: 9am-12pm and 1pm-3pm (Ending early so that everyone can attend the Ice Cream Social!)
    • Wednesday: Closed
    • Thursday: 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm
    • Friday: 9am-12pm

 

International Spouses and Partners Event Series

As a spouse or partner of an international student at the University of Michigan, you may be wondering how to adjust to living in the U.S., and in Ann Arbor. Attend the events below to learn about some of the possibilities and to meet other spouses and partners of international students!

  • New International Spouses & Partners Orientation & Networking (Lunch Provided!) - Monday, August 19th from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
  • Every English Workshop & Tour of Ann Arbor - Monday, August 26th from 10am-12pm

All events will be led by the Michigan Language Center (MLC) in partnership with the U-M International Center.

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

Register Here

 

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 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:

  • Academic Support/Cultural Transition
    • How to use Canvas & Wolverine Access
    • Communicating with Academic Advisors
    • Cultural differences in the classroom
    • Making the Most of Your GSI/GSRA
  • Practical Matters:
    • Banking & Budgeting
    • Shopping in Ann Arbor
    • Finding an On-Campus Job
  • Transportation and Safety: 
    • Transportation in Ann Arbor
    • Getting a Driver's License & Buying a Car
    • Personal safety
  • Social/Wellbeing:
    • Health & Wellbeing at U-M
    • Getting Involved on campus & making friends
    • Healthy Relationships & Dating in the U.S.
    • Things to do in Ann Arbor

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.

Adjusting to life in the U.S.

Description: Moving away from home as an international student is exciting but also challenging. In this workshop, we will discuss culture shock and how to adjust to cultural differences you may encounter while in the U.S.

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 8, 2024 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Virtual Register Here
Monday, August 19, 2024
(In-Person with lunch provided! )		 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Ross School of Business, B3560 Register Here
An Introduction to the English Language Institute (ELI) for Graduate and Professional Students

Description: Pamela Bogart 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 8, 2024 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM Register Here
An Introduction to the English Language Institute (ELI) for Undergraduate Students

Description: Pamela Bogart from the U-M English Language Institute (ELI) invites you to a Zoom conversation to learn about ELI courses and other resources to support undergraduate 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
Tuesday, August 6, 2024 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. 

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 Registration
Monday, August 7, 2023 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Register Here
Wednesday, August 16, 2023 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM 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
Thursday, August 15, 2023 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 12, 2024 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Register Here
Getting Connected: Technology Service & Support at U-M

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. They also manage the campus Tech Shop!

Join this presentation by 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
Monday, August 12, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Register Here

 

How to Use Your U-M International Health Insurance

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.

Register here!

 

International Spouses/Partners Event Series

Description: As a spouse or partner of an international student at the University of Michigan, you may be wondering how to adjust to living in the U.S., and in Ann Arbor. Attend this event series to learn about some of the possibilities and to meet other spouses and partners of international students!

All events will be led by the Michigan Language Center (MLC) in partnership with the U-M International Center.

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

Event Date Time Location Registration
Orientation & Networking
(Lunch Provided!)		 Monday, August 19, 2024 12:00 - 2:00 PM Ross School of Business B3570 Register Here
Everyday English Workshop Monday, August 26, 2024 10:00 - 11:00 AM Michigan Language Center (715 E. Huron Street) Register Here
(Tour begins immediately following workshop)
Walking Tour of Ann Arbor Monday, August 26, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Departing from Michigan Language Center (715 E. Huron Street)
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 presentation will offer important information on what is and is not permitted in the United States.

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. In addition, it will highlight travel tips for Spring Break and summer.

This presentation is hosted by the International Center and presented by Student Legal Services (SLS).

* Lunch will be provided *

Register Here

 

Networking & Small Talk in English 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
Friday, August 16, 2024 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM Weiser Hall, Room 1010 (10th Floor) Register Here
Stress Less for Success

Description: A psychologist from 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 Registration
Thursday, August 15, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Register Here
Technology Services and Resources on Campus

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. They also manage the campus Tech Shop!

Join this presentation by 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 10, 2023 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Register Here
U-M Library Basics

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.

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 9, 2024 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Register Here
Friday, August 16, 2024 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 Engineering Librarians 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. The tour will be offered after the in-person workshop only.

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 Location Registration
Tuesday, August 20, 2024 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Virtual Register Here
Wednesday, September 4, 2024 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Videoconference Suite, 1180 Duderstadt Center Register Here
Optional Tour of the Duderstadt Center following the in-person session
Wednesday, September 4, 2024 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM  Meet in the Videoconference Suite Register Here
U.S. Tax Withholding Forms (for Students only)

Description: This orientation workshop is designed for all U-M 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
Wednesday, August 14, 2024 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM Ross School of Business, B3570 Register Here
Friday, August 16, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Ross School of Business, B3570 Register Here
University Health Service (UHS) Information Session for International Students

Description: The University Health Service (UHS) is the campus health clinic for members of the University of Michigan community. In this session, you’ll learn about the many services offered by UHS and how you can take advantage of them! This session will be presented by the Medical Director of the University Health Service. You can expect the presentation to last 30 minutes, followed by 15 minutes reserved for your questions.

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

Date Time Registration
Tuesday, August 13, 2024 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM 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! Light breakfast refreshments will be served.

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 20, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Weiser Hall, Room 110 (1st Floor) Register Here