SISS Newsletter

March 2023 SISS Newsletter

Information and Updates 

Supporting Those Affected by Devastating Earthquakes in Turkey and Syria

The recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria were devastating, and we are heartbroken by their impact. We share your concern and wish to express our deepest sympathy for members of our UC Davis community impacted by this terrible catastrophe. Those with loved ones in affected areas may feel helpless, in shock, or even numb to the impact of this natural disaster. We stand by our community and offer support during these trying times.

Read more and find campus resources

Consider attending the Community Gathering organized by the Turkish Student Association on March 15 from 5–7 p.m. at the International Center. Register to attend by March 10.

SISS Closed on March 31

SISS will be closed for César Chávez Day on March 31. SISS closes early, and services end at 2 p.m. on the business day before a long weekend or holiday. Please plan ahead to avoid delays.

Daylight Saving Time

Don't forget to turn your clocks ahead one hour on Sunday, March 12, 2023 at 2 a.m., to mark the start of Daylight Saving.

Travel Signature Required for Travel

If you plan to travel outside the U.S. this spring break, please review the travel requirements for international students and scholars. In addition to the other requirements noted on these pages, F-1 students will need a valid travel signature on their I-20 form, and J-1 students and scholars will require a valid travel signature on their DS-2019 form.

If you need a new travel signature, you must make your request in iGlobal.

Consult your SISS advisors with any questions about international travel. 

Ask an Advisor

By Lena Zadorozhna, Tier 1 International Student Intake Advisor with Services for International Students and Scholars

Q: "How do I find off-campus housing in Davis?"

A: It takes time to find off-campus housing in Davis, so start looking early! SISS has a webpage, “Housing 101: Off-Campus Housing Resources,” where you may find many off-campus housing options in Davis and surrounding areas, including apartments, rental houses, and rooms to rent. Options vary in price and proximity to campus, so consider transportation to and from campus.

Here are five essential steps in your search:

  1. Make a budget and have an idea of what you want
  2. View the properties (in-person is best, but online works too!)
  3. Study the lease, so you understand the terms
  4. Avoid scams!
  5. Never feel embarrassed to ask questions.

Read more about resources to find housing

Scam Awareness: Rental Scams

Scams are fraudulent attempts to trick people out of their money. Unfortunately, these lies are easy to fall for, and scammers often target international students and scholars.

It is essential to stay alert to avoid scams when looking for housing. Our biggest recommendation is always to see the property in person, or have a friend see it before you pay anything.

Here are some signs that you might be dealing with a rental scam:

  • The person doesn't want to meet you in person or avoids attempts at meeting you in person
  • They want you to move in immediately
  • They ask for rent or a security deposit before you sign a lease agreement (this should be done once you sign a lease, not before)
  • The price is very low compared to similar places in the area

Learn more about protecting yourself from scams

Keep Your Updated Address on File with SISS

Attention students and scholars with F-1 or J-1 status:

You must keep your local address up to date with SISS. Updating your address in UCPath does not automatically update your information with SISS. Visit iGlobal to provide the current local address where you are living. This address cannot be a campus department or PO Box.

Visit iGlobal to confirm your local address

Programs and Events

California Income Tax Workshop

If you worked in California during 2022, you might need information about California State taxes. SISS will sponsor a webinar to provide information and resources to help you complete a California income tax return. This two-hour presentation will include the following topics:

  • Do I need to file?
  • California residency laws
  • Items taxed by California: All income versus Source income
  • Taxation of fellowships, stipends and scholarships
  • State and federal differences
  • Calculation of California tax
  • A step-by-step example of completing a form 540NR

The presenter, Ms. Janie Tran from the State of California Franchise Tax Board, Taxpayers Rights Advocate Office, will provide online resources, forms and answers to common questions. You must pre-register for this virtual event.

  • Date and time: March 2, 2023, 2–4 p.m.

Register

Scholar Coffee Break

We invite international scholars to connect at the monthly SISS Scholar Coffee Break. Whether you are new to campus or have been here for several months, international scholars are invited to join SISS in this welcoming and virtual space. 

Protecting the Rights of Women and Children 

Join Cameroon Supreme Court Justice Vera Nkwate Ngassa as she speaks about women’s rights, property rights and natural justice in Cameroon, West Central Africa. Global Affairs is proud to co-sponsor this in-person and virtual event.

  • Date and time: March 2, 2023, 12 p.m.

Register 

Field Day with the Global Ambassador Mentorship Program

Join the Global Ambassador Mentorship Program for the program’s last big event of the year: an Olympics-style field/sports day! Make connections with fellow Aggies while playing games such as capture the flag and egg races. Snacks will be provided, and we will have a raffle with gift cards and Aggie swag.

Register

Students Taking on Hunger: Ideas from Around the World on Addressing Food Insecurity and Inadequate Nutrition 

Join us for the 2023 UN SDGs Action and Awareness Week as UC Davis hosts a student-run virtual symposium on the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Learn how students from around the world are leading efforts to address SDG 2: Zero Hunger by encouraging local agricultural production, reducing food waste and engaging communities to facilitate food distribution.

  • Date and time: March 6, 2023, 1–2 p.m.

Register 

Understanding Freedom of Expression

The campus community is invited to a March 7 town hall to discuss the role and responsibilities of public universities in supporting free speech. The forum will be jointly moderated by Radhika Gawde, president of the Associated Students of UC Davis, and Kevin Johnson, dean of the School of Law.

Read more about freedom of expression

Dissertation Defense and Presentations for Multilingual Writers

This interactive workshop is designed to help graduate and professional students feel more capable of preparing for and handling public speaking in English, whether in a classroom, conference presentation, or dissertation defense. Receive strategies for reducing anxiety and improving speaking skills to ensure clearer communication.

Learn more and register

World Dance Club at I-House

Join the new I-House World Dance Club on Thursday mornings starting March 9. The World Dance Club is volunteer-led, fun and informal. Try the first session for free.

Register

Mondavi Center: Michael Barenboim and West-Eastern Divan Ensemble 

Join us for a culturally enriching performance with Arab and Israeli musicians. Global Affairs is proud to sponsor this Mondavi event.

Purchase tickets

All Are Welcome at the Turkish Student Association Community Gathering

Those affected by the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria and those who want to show their support are invited to an informal gathering organized by Turkish Student Association at UC Davis, co-sponsored by Global Affairs. The event will include a hot meal and opportunities for community connection.

Register by March 10

UC Davis Widening Circles: Global Social Impact Program

Explore new pathways for learning, sharing, connecting, and acting with purpose and humility in the face of global inequality and injustice. The program includes an online curriculum, guidance from mentors, reflection, peer-to-peer learning and multimedia storytelling. Join the virtual info session to learn more about the program and funding opportunities. Program duration: June 26–August 25, 2023.

  • Date and time: March 21, 2023, 12–12:50 p.m.
  • Learn more

Register for the information session

Global Affairs Career Enhancement Certificate: Exploring DEI to Contribute to an Inclusive Workplace

This series encourages graduate students and postdocs to consider how their research and career aspirations position them to respond to global challenges. Participants will be provided insights from mid- and late-career professionals on how to improve leadership skills, with an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, for success in intercultural work environments, whether in the public, private or academic sectors.

Contact Janice Tse with questions

Life After UC Davis

International students and postdocs planning to stay in the United States to work after leaving UC Davis can hear about visa options from legal experts from WR Immigration, a law firm with offices in northern California. 

  • Date and time: April 12, 2023, 3:30–5 p.m.

Register

Opportunities and Announcements

Welcome Dinner for Newly Arrived Visiting Scholars

Community Friends of Scholars is a local organization of volunteers sponsored by International Students, Inc. (ISI), with staff and volunteers from area churches. They hold monthly Welcome Dinners for newly arrived visiting scholars. Scholars can sign up for other activities at the dinners, like Zoom cooking classes and farm tours.

Sign up for the I-House Newsletter

Interested in learning more about Davis's International House? Sign up for their newsletter and receive updates on events, services, and volunteer opportunities happening in the community.

Travel Topics for International Students and Scholars: Consular and Customs and Border Protection, 2023

On Feb. 21, 2023, Avi Friedman, a partner in the Santa Monica office of WR Immigration, presented an overview of the non-immigrant visa application process and interview, the consequences of the war in Ukraine, COVID-19 travel updates, and Customs and Border Protection admission issues and tips.

Spring Quarter Seminar: South Asian Muslims

This spring quarter, join a seminar about South Asian (American) Muslim identity formation through interactive lectures and workshops to learn about the multicultural dynamic within Muslim communities in the South Asian region and diaspora.

Student and Scholar Spotlight

Global Aggies Series Continues with Bob Kiaii

Bob Kiaii, chief of cardiothoracic surgery at UC Davis Health, is an international expert in robotic heart surgery who leads a surgical team that treats complex diseases of the chest using minimally invasive techniques. Born in Iran, Kiaii immigrated to Canada as a child with his family. His path in medicine eventually brought him to UC Davis Health, a relocation feat that was not without its challenges.

Read more

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