The goal of the Office of International Student Affairs is to help you be successful at Grinnell! That means helping you: become adjusted to the culture (American and academic) and to learn to negotiate it successfully; interact successfully with your roommate, other students, faculty, staff and host families; become involved with extracurricular activities that help you develop as a leader and allow you to contribute to the college and the community; and plan and prepare for your future after Grinnell College.

We hope you will make the most of ALL of the offices, services, and opportunities available at Grinnell - including Academic Advising, Career Development, campus employment opportunities, the Chaplain's office, your faculty adviser, research and internship opportunities, Residence Life, and the Health and Wellness Center… to name only a few.

• Pre-Orientation for International Students is held just before the all-campus orientation for new students. OISA provides airport pick-up for new students arriving in Des Moines. During Pre-Orientation, you will: meet and interact with other new students; meet with important resource people; learn your way around campus; receive an orientation to immigration requirements and the benefits of your student status, including work opportunities and practical training; gain valuable tips that can lead to academic success at Grinnell; discuss details about U.S. American culture, from the perspective of your peers; begin to know your Host Family; etc! **Extended Orientation includes a series of programs in your first fall semester that allow you time to socialize and learn more about campus services and culturally sensitive topics.
• The Host Family Program. is an optional program that matches international students with an individual or family in Grinnell. This may include a brief home stay when you first arrive. The program offers you the support of a "family away from home" and the chance to experience American culture outside of the campus culture.
• Regulatory Advising on issues that relate to the benefits and limitations of your non-immigrant student status in the USA. (i.e. tax compliance; employment and practical training; drivers license or state ID cards; etc.)
• Personal, cross-cultural and academic counseling. Call 3703 to make an appointment in the OISA. Office hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (afternoon appointments preferred)
• OISA Newsletter. This publication is sent once a semester to all international students and exchange visitors, as well as to host families and interested staff / faculty. Editor: Hanna Lukowicz-Armstrong.
• FYI Email Alerts. FYI announcements are sent from OISA on a regular basis to share information about events, deadlines, and tips. FYI is sent to all international students.
• Iowa International Fellows Program. Grinnell's international students are invited to participate in this leadership training program with peers from other colleges and unversities across the state.
• Peer Connections. This optional program (coordinated through the Office of Multicultural Affairs) matches first-year multicultural and international students with peer mentors. Mentors assist you in acclimating to Grinnell, organize and participate in various social activities, and provide opportunities to learn about international and multicultural resources in Iowa communities.
• Break Activities: Because we know you may be staying on campus during some college break and vacation periods, OISA and ISO work together to offer break activities such as shopping trips, bowling, ski trips, movies, parties and other activities. *The Office of Residence Life offers you the opportunity to remain in your room at no extra charge during breaks and holidays. For all breaks except winter break, Dining Services offers meal service.
• The International Speakers Bureau (ISB): This program offers international students the opportunity to teach others about their home country and culture! Audiences can vary from an elementary school classroom, to local service organizations, church groups, or retirement centers.
• International Programming: a variety of all-campus programs are sponsored by OISA to help educate the campus and give you an opportunity to share your customs and culture. Examples from the past include a formal international banquet cooked by students; an international film series; an International Quiz Bowl; and a Cultural Fun Fair.

* For more information on services provided by OISA contact: Karen Edwards; Brenda Strong; or Hanna L. Armstrong. * For information about ISO activities, contact ISO@grinnell.edu.