For SIU international students, adjusting to an American university is made easier with the help of International Programs and Services(IPS).

By Gus Bode

Through workshops and activities, IPS attempts to make the transition to SIU easier for international students, according to international student advisor Diane Hodgson.

This is why we offer these workshops, Hodgson said. We help them with study habits, how to take notes, how to figure out what professors expect, and things of that nature.

Workshop coordinator Mika Uchizaki, graduate student in speech communication from Japan, said the primary aim of the workshops is to reach out to the international students.

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We want to offer them support in academic areas, she said. Particularly in this year’s workshops, we want to focus on academic areas and career plans.

Students receive help in academic areas, but also in career planning. International students are slated for a tour of University Career Services and a workshop on resume writing and job search skills, Hodgson said.

IPS also sponsors sports activities at the recreation center, said graduate assistant Xinyi Zhou, business major from China.

Every semester, there are 3 or 4 sports activities, she said. American students are encouraged to come out and play on a team with international students. It’s an opportunity for Americans to get involved.

The first sports night will be held September 15, with volleyball as the activity.

The first workshop, titled Study Smart’, took place in the Student Center Thursday afternoon. The second workshop is scheduled for September 7 in Ballroom A of the Student Center and will focus on immigration and practical training.

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