ISO Events and Programs

FAll '24 Events and Programs

The International Services Office (ISO) is committed to enriching the student life experience of all GW international students and scholars through programming and hosts a wide variety of events each academic year.

The ISO’s Programming is intentionally built around 4 support areas for international students, which include:

 


ISO Global Insider Monthly Newsletter

To keep up with the latest news for the GW international community, we encourage you to sign up for the ISO’s monthly newsletter. The Global Insider newsletter will include important news, immigration updates, event announcements, interesting student stories, fun self-care activities, and so much more! Sign up to receive our monthly newsletter below.

Newsletter Sign Up


 

Orientation and Adjustment

 

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Pre-Arrival Webinars Flyer

International Student Pre-Arrival Webinars

The International Student Community Ambassadors host a series of pre-arrival webinars each semester to welcome incoming international students. These webinars cover a variety of topics including U.S. Culture, Academic Life at GW, and Community and Support at GW. These webinars provide peer-to-peer guidance on what life is like at GW as an international student and is geared toward students of all levels/programs!

Learn More

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International students sitting in a large theater

New F-1 & J-1 International Student Orientations

Newly admitted GW students in F-1 Student status and J-1 Student status are required to attend mandatory in-person New International Student Orientations. At orientation, students learn essential information related to maintaining their immigration status as well as benefits that are available to them as GW international students. 

Learn More

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The Great Game Flyer

Campus Scavenger Hunt

Explore GW's Foggy Bottom campus during this fun scavenger hunt with the ISCAs! At each stop, you will solve a new puzzle that leads you to another important location across the university. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to meet your fellow students and learn about key buildings, study spots, dining options, and much more!

   Thursday, August 15     11AM     Funger Room 103

Registration Closed

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A group of international students outside of the U.S. Capitol Building

U.S. Capitol Tour

Join the International Services Office (ISO) for an exclusive tour of the iconic Capitol Building! Explore the heart of democracy while connecting with fellow GW international students. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the history and significance of the U.S. Capitol Building. Limited spots are available, so secure your place now!

   Friday, August 16     1PM     Meet on USC 1st Floor

Registration Closed

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A group of students in the Hall of Nations at the Kennedy Center surrounded by world flags

Kennedy Center Tour

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (commonly referred to as the "Kennedy Center") is a vibrant cultural hub known for hosting world-renowned artists and performances. Join the ISCAs for a tour of its historic performance halls and the opportunity to make new friends! 

   Wednesday, August 21     10:30AM     Meet on USC 1st Floor

Registration Closed


 

Immigration Support

 

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Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Workshop

Do you plan to work or participate in internships during your time as an international student at GW? We invite you to join this in-person workshop hosted by the ISO’s expert advisors to learn how to obtain work authorization while on an F-1 visa.  

   Tuesday, September 10     2PM - 3:30PM     USC Grand Ballroom

Registration Closed

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Optional Practical Training (OPT) Workshop

Are you interested in employment in the U.S. following completion of your academic program? We invite you to join this in-person workshop hosted by the ISO’s expert advisors to learn how to obtain post-graduation work authorization while on an F-1 visa.

  Wednesday, September 25     1PM - 2:30PM     USC Grand Ballroom

Registration Closed

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Students listening to a presentation

J-1 Employment Workshop

This workshop is for J-1 international students only. Join the ISO for this in-person workshop and learn about employment and academic training opportunities as well as how to maintain your status while working. J-2 work authorization procedures will also be discussed.

  Tuesday, October 15     2:30PM - 3:30PM     ESIA, Room 313

Register to Attend

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Optional Practical Training (OPT) Workshop 2

If you missed the first OPT Workshop, we look forward to seeing you at this one. Are you interested in employment in the U.S. following completion of your academic program? We invite you to join this in-person workshop hosted by the ISO’s expert advisors to learn how to obtain post-graduation work authorization while on an F-1 visa.

  Friday, November 15     1PM - 2:30PM     USC Amphitheater

Registration Coming Soon


Career and Professional Support

 

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Networking Webinar with the ISCAs

Join the International Student Community Ambassadors (ISCAs) to learn about the #1 job search strategy: networking! We will help you identify strategies to develop your verbal communication skills so that you can effectively promote yourself to potential employers.

  Friday, September 27     12PM - 1PM    Webex

Registration Closed

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Man typing on computer

Job Search Webinar with the ISCAs

Join the International Student Community Ambassadors (ISCA) for this webinar about the job and internship search process as an international student. We will discuss useful tips and share resources available to you to help you effectively search and apply for jobs and internships.

   Friday, October 18     1:30PM - 2:30PM     Webex

Registration Coming Soon

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A cup of coffee next to a clipboard with a resume attached

Global Grad Cafe: Coffee Hour & Resume Workshop

Calling all international graduate students! ISO invites you to connect, relax, and share experiences over a delicious cup of coffee. You will also have the opportunity to meet with a career advisor and discuss how to improve your resume for future job/internship opportunities. We look forward to seeing you during this delightful afternoon of conversation and camaraderie.

   Wednesday, October 23    12PM - 2PM     USC 4th Floor

Registration Coming Soon

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Ace Your Interviews Webinar with the ISCAs

Join the International Student Community Ambassadors (ISCA) to learn about effective preparation tips and communication strategies that will increase your confidence and help you stand out at virtual and in-person job interviews.

   Friday, November 8    1:30PM - 2:30PM     Webex

Registration Coming Soon


Social and Cultural Exchange

 

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ISO Mocktail Social

Get ready to connect! Kick off the semester by enjoying great food, drinks, and views with people from all over the world! Also stop by to meet members of the ISO staff and your International Student Community Ambassadors (ISCAs). 

   Thursday, August 29    2PM - 3:30PM     City View Room, ESIA

Registration Closed

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Friday Funday: Lincoln Memorial Visit

Join the ISCAs for an unforgettable cultural experience! The International Services Office invites all international students to attend this guided visit of the iconic Lincoln Memorial. Immerse yourself in American history, marvel at the majestic statue of Abraham Lincoln, and soak in the breathtaking views of the National Mall.

CANCELLED DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER

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A group of students in front of a elephant sculpture in the DC Natural History Museum

Friday Funday: Natural History Museum

Join the ISCAs to see the most visited Smithsonian museum, featuring a collection of 145 million specimens and artifacts. From dinosaur bones to undersea creatures to the hope diamond, the National Museum of Natural History has something for everyone! 

   Friday, September 6     1PM     Meet on USC 1st Floor (Near Elevators) 

Registration Closed

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Friday Funday: GW Textile Museum

Join the ISCAs at the incredible GW Textile Museum! The Textile Museum houses an incredible, global collection of textiles and GW history. Don't miss out on this exclusive guided tour!

   Friday, September 13     11AM     Meet on USC 1st Floor (Near Elevators) 

Registration Closed

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Global Grad Cafe: Ice Cream Social

Calling all international graduate students! ISO, The GW School of Business, GW Engineering, and The Elliott School of International Affairs invite you to enjoy some delicious ice cream while relaxing and connecting with your peers on campus. Don't miss out on this sweet opportunity to spend time with old friends and new! 

   Friday, September 20     2PM-3:30PM     USC Grand Ballroom

Registration Closed

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Students painting miniature pumpkins

The Haunting of Students Abroad: International Halloween Celebration

Join us for our annual "Haunting of Students Abroad: International Halloween Celebration!" Halloween treats await for students of all degree types! Take a moment from your busy schedule to talk with globally-minded peers, play games, enjoy candy and treats, and paint a pumpkin with friends! Costumes are encouraged but not required!

   Thursday, October 31     2PM - 3:30PM     USC Continental Ballroom

Registration Coming Soon

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ISO Friendsgiving

Join us for a heartwarming 'Friendsgiving' celebration to relax and reflect before the busy exams/holiday season! We are thankful for YOU! Indulge in some fall treats, connect with friends, and create lasting memories.

   Wednesday, November 20     1PM - 2:30PM     USC Continental Ballroom

Registration Coming Soon