Dear International Students,

We hope your Spring Quarter is off to a great start. Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS), within Global Affairs, is standing by to help and support you as you navigate through the various changes. We know it can be a lot to process, and want to reassure you that if you are feeling overwhelmed or intimidated by all of this new information, these are normal emotions when processing all this change; please reach out and let us help you.

Within this email are some updates and resources for your online learning and details about OPT workshops.

iGlobal updates

The new iGlobal portal is live! You will notice an updated look and functionality. All requests have now resumed. If you have any trouble navigating the new portal, please email us for help at siss@ucdavis.edu.

Learning resources

The university has made available a number of tools to help students in their online classes. Zoom is a preferred video conference service that many instructors are using to facilitate discussions, and students can find a Zoom Guide for Students available for troubleshooting. Canvas is also a preferred tool for instructors. Students can connect to classes with the UC Davis Library VPN, and learn more about other library resources here. Students should also regularly review the Student Resources page (available through the Keep Teaching website) to learn more about available technology, connecting to WiFi, and other topics as the page is updated with new information. 

If you are having trouble accessing resources for your classes, please reach out first to your instructor. Instructors are best able to assist you or connect you with someone who can assist you. If your issue remains unresolved with your instructor, you may reach out to your SISS Advisor. 

If you are now taking classes from outside the U.S., please remember that it is a regulatory requirement that you notify us of your physical address within 10 days should it change. Please complete this eform to let us know if you are remaining in the United States during the spring term or leaving the country and when you are planning to return.

Student employment

Many jobs have transitioned to remote work, including those positioned held by students on campus. If you are an F-1 student whose on-campus job has transitioned to remote-only work during this time, you can continue with this employment. Students must connect in with their SISS Advisors to discuss how their work is being conducted remotely.

We will hold OPT workshops through Zoom this quarter on May 1 and June 5. Please visit our workshop calendar online to find the workshop that is best for you.

Please remember that the I-765 application for work authorization requires that the individual apply from within the United States. We recommend you stay in the U.S. so as not to jeopardize your ability to take advantage of your OPT/STEM OPT benefits. USCIS will not mail government documents abroad. The I-797 approval notices and the EAD card are all considered government documents. If your EAD card is approved while you are outside of the United States, you will be obligated to have written notification of a job offer in order to be eligible for re-admission to the United States.

Thank you for your perseverance

The determination we see within the international student community here at UC Davis is truly inspiring. Each day, we are reminded of how strong you are and we remain impressed by your commitment to UC Davis and your education. We look forward to continuing to serve you. Please reach out to advisors and SISS with questions and as you have needs that arise. SISS will stand by ready to help.

All the best for a healthy Spring Quarter,

Wesley Young
Director, Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS)
Global Affairs