May 2023 SISS Newsletter
Information and Updates
UC Davis Police Safe Rides Are Free
UC Davis Police offer free Safe Rides to anyone on the Davis campus who would like an alternative to walking alone or in a small group at night. Safe rides are now offered seven days a week from 5–10 p.m. when traveling to another campus location, and from 8 p.m.–3 a.m. when traveling from campus to another location in the city of Davis.
WarnMe and Aggie Alert Campus Messages
UC Davis sends WarnMe and Aggie Alert messages by text, email and the Everbridge Mobile App to provide faculty, staff and students with timely information during emergencies and other urgent situations.
Learn more and ensure your contact information is up to date
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
SISS Closed on May 29
SISS will be closed for Memorial Day on May 29. 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.
Ask an Advisor
By Banicia Chatkara, Tier 1 International Student Intaker Advisor with Services for International Students and Scholars
Q: "Do I need to attend faculty office hours?"
A: Office hours are an incredible opportunity to have one-on-one interactions and build connections with the faculty at UC Davis. Having faculty in your network can support your academic and career goals. If you are confused about a concept or curious about something you read in an assignment, office hours give you a chance to perform better in class and gain more knowledge. If you don’t have any questions, try researching the faculty member’s experience or publications for topics to discuss. Bring a friend if you’re nervous about attending office hours!
Employment Workshops Available On-Demand
Are you interested in OPT or CPT? F-1 Employment Workshops are available online. Select your workshop to get started.
- CPT for Undergraduate F-1 Students
- OPT for F-1 Students (Part 1 of 3)
- STEM OPT Extension for F-1 Students
Programs and Events
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.
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Date and time: May 4, 2023, 9–10 a.m.
Learn more about the Scholar Coffee Break and register
Alienation and Liminality: An Installation on International LGBTQIA+ Graduate Student Experiences on Campus
International LGBTQIA+ graduate students encounter unique challenges and experiences navigating the context of UC Davis. Join the 2022 recipients of the Global Aggies Award for LGBTQIA+ Rights for an interactive art installation in the main lobby of the International Center.
- Dates: Now – June 8, 2023
Opportunities and Announcements
Global Education for All (GE4A) Fellows Program
Contribute towards the campus-wide initiative of Global Education for All (GE4A), advising on different aspects of GE4A or working on team projects that help further integrate global learning on campus with multiple leadership opportunities available. The program is a one-academic-year volunteer, unpaid commitment.
- Deadline: May 12, 2023
2023 Research Expo
The Research Expo showcases the latest research, opportunities, resources and tools to help you extend your impact. The event includes exhibits, presentations, workshops and opportunities to network with potential collaborators. Enjoy the full event or attend portions that are of particular interest.
- Date and time: May 16, 2023, 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
America China Talk Essay
UC Davis East Asian Studies has announced the prompts for the 2022-23 America China Talk Essay Contest. Choosing between two topics, the essay should range between 1,500 and 1,800 words. Open to undergraduate students only, entries will be reviewed by a panel of judges and up to three winners will earn prizes of $1,000 each.
- Deadline: May 21, 2023
Take the Graduate Student Experience Survey
The University of California Graduate Student Experience Survey is an online survey administered at UC Davis and each of the other UC campuses. It asks students for their input around a broad range of academic and non-academic experiences. All UC Davis graduate and professional students are invited to participate.
- Deadline: May 31, 2023.
Support Undergraduate Commencement Ceremonies
You’re invited to join the Commencement Ambassador team to help make this year’s spring undergraduate commencement at the Golden 1 Center an unforgettable experience for our graduates. As a token of appreciation for your time, ambassadors will receive a $75 Visa gift card, parking voucher, T-shirt, collectible pin and a meal.
UC Davis Widening Circles
Through a global network of social impact organizations, guidance from mentors, multimedia storytelling and a rigorous curriculum, students will explore new pathways for learning, sharing, connecting and acting with purpose and humility in the face of global inequality and injustice. Funding available!
- Dates: June 26, 2023 to August 25, 2023
Student and Scholar Spotlight
Helping International Scholars Thrive
A dedicated team in SISS works closely with international scholars—non-degree-seeking professionals such as faculty, academic researchers, postdoctoral scholars, staff and visiting professionals. Meet some of the staff responsible for helping these members of our campus community navigate the complex visa and immigration process and feel at home at UC Davis.