November 2024 SISS Newsletter
Information and Updates
Office Holiday Closures In November
The SISS office will be closed on November 11 for Veterans Day. SISS will close early, and services end at 2 p.m. on November 8, with staff returning on November 12. Please plan ahead to avoid delays.
The SISS office will also be closed on November 28 and 29 for Thanksgiving. SISS will close early, and services end at 2 p.m. on November 27, with staff will return on December 2.
Plan Ahead: Travel Signature Required for Winter Travel
If you plan to travel outside the U.S. this upcoming winter break, please review the travel requirements for both 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 Global. Consult your SISS advisors with any questions about international travel.
Learn more about travel requirements
Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. on November 3, when clocks shift back by one hour. If you have a clock connected to a satellite or internet connection, such as a mobile phone or laptop, this change will likely happen automatically. However, it is a good rule for clocks that aren't connected, such as a microwave or wall clock, to set them back when you go to bed on November 2.
Protect Yourself from Scams
Never give your personal information to someone you don't know! Here are some signs that an email, phone call or text may have come from a scammer.
End the conversation if the person:
- Threatens to suspend your Social Security number or visa (even if they have part or all of your information, such as part of your
- Social Security number)
- Warns or threatens arrest or legal action
- Demands or requests immediate payment
- Requires payment by gift card, prepaid debit card, internet currency or by mailing cash
- Pressures you for your personal information
- Offers you a job you didn't apply for
- Requests secrecy
- Threatens to seize your bank account
- Promises to increase your Social Security benefit
- Tries to gain your trust by providing fake documentation, false evidence, or by claiming to be a government official
Learn more about protecting yourself from scams
Programs and Events
Scholar Coffee Break
We invite international scholars (visiting faculty and researchers) 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.
- Date and time: November 7, 9–10 a.m.
Aggie Mental Health Ambassadors (AMHAs) at the International Center for World Kindness Day!
Stop by the Aggie Mental Health Ambassadors table at the International Center on World Kindness Day! Have a friendly chat with a fellow Aggie and learn about mental health and well-being resources and evidence-based practices to take care of yourself and others.
- Date and Time: November 13, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Location: International Center Lobby
Universitas 21 (U21) Sustainable Micro-Internships
The U21 Sustainable Micro-Internships Program is a free, virtual, two-week project-based internship for all students. Work with students from across the globe, sharing knowledge and expertise while providing solutions to a challenge related to one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- Deadline: November 13, 2024
Global Ambassador Mentorship Program Mentee Applications
Incoming international students, apply now to receive a peer mentor! Your mentor can be your go-to resource for information about student life at UC Davis, as well as campus resources and events. Meet other students and make new friends at our social events!
Language and Culture Coaching for Graduate Students
Graduate students can sign up for the Language and Culture Coaching Program to practice their oral communication skills in English in one-on-one or small group settings. Fall quarter registration opens in mid-September.
Opportunities and Announcements
Flu Vaccine Community Clinics
Free flu vaccines are available for the Yolo County community from the Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency Public Health Branch.
Davis:
November 7, 2-4 p.m.
Davis Community Meals
1111 H Street
December 5, 4-7 p.m.
Cesar Chavez Elementary School
1221 Anderson Road
Woodland:
November 14, 4-7 p.m.
Woodland High School
21 N. West Street
West Sacramento:
November 21, 5-7 p.m.
Westfield Village Elementary School
508 Poplar Ave.
Aggie Eats Food Truck at the International Center
This quarter through December 3, the Aggie Eats food truck will distribute student meals at the International Center. The truck will be stationed in front of the building on Tuesdays. Individual meal distribution will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. or until the truck runs out of meals.
Getting Involved with a Student Organization
Students are encouraged to connect and engage with student organizations on campus. UC Davis has many options to get involved and make friends. Find a student organization through the Center for Student Involvement. Search by interest or schedule a virtual meeting to learn more.
Visit the Center for Student Involvement
Visit the ASUCD Pantry for Free Groceries
The ASUCD Pantry located in the Memorial Union offers free groceries and basic necessities to all UC Davis students, staff and faculty regardless of financial need. Order ahead online for nonperishables/basic necessities or come by anytime for a walk-in visit to get fresh produce. Everyone is welcome!
Learn more about the ASUCD Pantry
New Safe Ride App Available for UC Davis Community
Download the NEW Safe Ride app, “UC Davis Safe Ride,” from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The new app lets you request rides, get more accurate wait times, and more. The Safe Ride service provides UC Davis students, staff and faculty with rides from campus to on-campus and off-campus Davis addresses.
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. At the dinners, scholars can sign up for other activities, like Zoom cooking classes and farm tours.
For more information, email Simon Zeigler with ISI at szeigler@isionline.org
