Fall 2020 Workshop Schedule

September 23rd, 2020 in Academic Workshops, F-1 Students, ISSO Workshops, J-1 Students, OPT workshops

The ISSO is pleased to announce our Fall workshop schedule on topics including on-campus employment, applying for Optional Practical Training, and Interviewing in the U.S.

For complete workshop dates, locations and session descriptions see our calendar. Additional dates may be added during the semester.

All workshops during the Fall semester will be offered virtually via Zoom.  When you register for a workshop at the corresponding link below, you will receive an e-mail confirmation with the link to access the session.

Workshops in collaboration with the BU Student Employment Office:

You’re Hired! On-Campus Employment for International Students

This workshop covers tips for finding a job on campus, U.S. work permission, your rights and expectations as a U.S. worker, Social Security numbers, getting paid and taxes. It is now offered online in an on-demand format.  If you are interested in learning about how to work at BU, you can watch the video any time!

Workshops in collaboration with the BU Center for Career Development:

Interviewing in the USA: A Career Workshop

Join staff from the ISSO and the Center for Career Development (CCD) for a program designed to help international students understand the job search process in the U.S. Sharpen your interviewing techniques by bringing your strengths as an international student to the table. This workshop will help you familiarize yourself with the intricacies of the U.S. interview process while learning how to best assess your skills and international experience to answer “difficult” interview questions.

Thursday, October 27^th, 8:00 am [Register with the CCD here]
Location: Virtual on Zoom

Thursday, November 12^th, 4:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: Virtual on Zoom

Internship Search for International Students

The Center for Career Development and the International Students and Scholars Office invite you to join us to learn how to prepare and search for internships specifically for international students.  This workshop will include information about OPT and CPT eligibility and other concerns.

Wednesday, October 14^th, 4:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: Virtual on Zoom

Networking for International Students

Leverage your connections in the US and at home to enhance your global job or internship search. This session will be presented by CCD staff.

Monday, October 22^nd, 8:00 am [Register with the CCD here]
Location: Virtual on Zoom

ISSO general immigration workshops:

Q&A with ISSO for Graduate Students

We know you have questions! ISSO Advisors are here to help! Join ISSO for a brief overview of immigration updates for Fall 2020, followed by a Q&A session. Bring your immigration, employment and travel questions!

Wednesday, October 7^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: Virtual via Zoom

Q&A with ISSO for Undergraduate Students

We know you have questions! ISSO Advisors are here to help! Join ISSO for a brief overview of immigration updates for Fall 2020, followed by a Q&A session. Bring your immigration, employment and travel questions!

Wednesday, October 7^th, 5:00 pm [Register here]
Location: Virtual via Zoom

Employment Authorization for Internships: CPT and pre-OPT

It’s not too early to begin planning for a summer internship. This workshop covers F-1 student employment authorization options for off-campus work and internships including: Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), Employment through designated International Organizations

Friday, October 30^th, 9:00 am [Register here]
Location: Virtual via Zoom

F-1 OPT: Application Basics

This workshop covers topics for students preparing to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), including eligibility factors and timing of application, considerations for travel and employment, and tips for preparing and mailing the OPT application.

Thursday, October 1^st, 6:00 pm [Register here]

Friday, October 2^nd, 9:00 am [Register here]

Monday, November 2^nd, 5:30 pm [Register here]

Tuesday, December 8^th, 9:00 am [Register here]

All workshops will be virtual via Zoom

F-1 OPT: Application Q&A Sessions (NEW for Fall 2020!)

ISSO has made our OPT Basics workshop available on-demand!  These Q&A sessions are for students who would prefer to watch the OPT Basics workshop on their own, and then ask ISSO Advisors the questions that they still have after watching the workshop.  Q&A sessions will not have a formal presentation, so you MUST watch the on-demand workshop prior to attending.  When you watch the workshop, please note questions that you have and bring those with you to one of our Q&A sessions!

Tuesday, October 6^th, 9:00 am [Register here]

Wednesday, October 14^th, 5:30 pm [Register here]

Monday, October 19^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]

Thursday, November 5^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]

Tuesday, December 1^st, 5:00 pm [Register here]

Friday, December 11^th, 9:30 am [Register here]

All workshops will be virtual via Zoom

F-1 STEM OPT Extension: Application Basics

This workshop is designed for students who have already submitted an application for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and who may already be working on OPT. Covers advanced OPT topics including an overview of STEM OPT, allowing OPT extensions for certain Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields.  After this workshop, students should be prepared to apply for the STEM OPT extension.

Thursday, October 27^th, 1:00 pm [Register here]
Location: Virtual via Zoom

F-1 STEM OPT Extension: Application Q&A Sessions (NEW for Fall 2020!)

ISSO has made our STEM OPT Extension workshop available on-demand!  These Q&A sessions are for students who would prefer to watch the STEM OPT workshop on their own, and then ask ISSO Advisors the questions that they still have after watching the workshop.  Q&A sessions will not have a formal presentation, so you MUST watch the on-demand workshop prior to attending.  When you watch the workshop, please note questions that you have and bring those with you to one of our Q&A sessions!

Thursday, November 19^th, 9:00 am [Register here]

Monday, December 7^th, 10:00 am [Register here]

All workshops will be virtual via Zoom

Life After F-1: Transitions (Cap-Gap, H-1B and alternatives)

This workshop is designed for students who have already submitted an application for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and who may already be working on OPT. Covers advanced such as moving to H-1B employment-based immigration sponsorship, and “cap-gap” extensions of status and work permission.

Thursday, October 22^nd, 5:00 pm [Register here]
Location: Virtual via Zoom

Spring Semester Workshop Schedule for Students

January 22nd, 2020 in Academic Workshops, F-1 Students, ISSO Workshops, J-1 Students, OPT workshops

The ISSO is pleased to announce our spring workshop schedule on topics including on-campus employment, applying for Optional Practical Training, and Interviewing in the U.S.

For complete workshop dates, locations and session descriptions, see our calendar. Additional dates may be added during the semester.

Please note the location of the workshop you wish to attend. Workshops are offered across Charles River and Medical Campus to ensure space and access to interested students.

Space for our workshops is limited and a reservation is usually required to ensure your place. Please register at the corresponding link below for the workshops you plan to attend. Registration is open now for workshops in February and March, and will open later for other dates.

Featured Workshops with visiting attorneys:

Immigration Considerations for Medical Students

Rhonda Tjietjen – RSST Law Group

• Are you a Medical Student interested in staying in the United States to complete your residency?
• Are you interested in learning about the different visa options for research and clinical training programs after Medical School?
• This session will highlight different visa options to support these activities.

Tuesday, March 3^rd, 5:00 pm [Register here]
Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, L110

Immigration Considerations for Life after F-1

Prasant Desai - Iandoli Desai & Cronin P.C

• Are you interested in staying in the United States to work after your F-1 Optional Practical Training ends?
• Are you considering applying to begin a US Lawful Permanent Resident?
• This session will highlight post-F-1 visa options for those interested in living and working in the United States.

Wednesday, February 19^th, 5:30 pm [Register here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6^th Floor

Immigration Considerations for Entrepreneurs and Self-Employment

Elizabeth Goss - Goss Associates

• Are you interested in starting a company or working for a start-up?
• What entrepreneur activities require employer authorization?
• This session will highlight nonimmigrant visas options to support these activities

Wednesday, March 25^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor

Immigration Considerations for Artists and Performers

Donal Eoin Reilly - Iandoli Desai & Cronin P.C.

• Are you interested in starting a company or working for a start-up?
• What entrepreneur activities require employer authorization?
• This session will highlight nonimmigrant visas options to support these activities

Thursday, April 23rd, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor

Workshops in collaboration with the BU Student Employment Office:

You’re Hired! On-Campus Employment for International Students

Join staff from the ISSO and the Student Employment Office to discuss, tips for finding a job on campus, U.S. work permission, your rights and expectations as a U.S. worker, Social Security numbers, getting paid and taxes.

Monday, January 27^th, 3:00 PM [Register here]
Location: SHA 110, 928 Commonwealth Ave

Thursday, January 30^th, 11:00 am [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor

Workshops in collaboration with the BU Center for Career Development:

Interviewing in the USA: A Career Workshop

Join staff from the ISSO and the Center for Career Development (CCD) for a program designed to help international students understand the job search process in the U.S. Sharpen your interviewing techniques by bringing your strengths as an international student to the table. This workshop will help you familiarize yourself with the intricacies of the U.S. interview process while learning how to best assess your skills and international experience to answer "difficult" interview questions.

Tuesday, February 25^th, 4:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6^th Floor

Thursday, April 2^nd, 2:30 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2^nd Floor

Global Job and Internship Search for International Students

Learn how to find internships and/or full-time jobs both internationally and in the US. We will start with the mechanics of preparing for the search including knowing yourself and your targeted audience. We will review resources for searching both here and abroad and various strategies to enhance your search process including social media. This session will be presented by CCD staff.

Monday, January 27^th, 4:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6^th Floor

US resume versus International CV for International Students

Learn the difference between a resume and a CV in the US and begin to convert your international CV to a US resume format. This session will be presented by CCD staff.

Wednesday, January 29^th, 5:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6^th Floor

Networking for International Students

Leverage your connections in the US and at home to enhance your global job or internship search. This session will be presented by CCD staff.

Wednesday, February 5^th, 4:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6^th Floor

ISSO general immigration workshops:

Summer Internships: CPT and pre-OPT

It’s not too early to begin planning for a summer internship. This workshop covers F-1 student employment authorization options for off-campus work and internships including: Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), Employment through designated International Organizations

Monday, February 10^th, 1:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor

Thursday, April 16^th, 10:00 am  [Register here]
Location: Zoom

F-1 OPT: Application Basics

This workshop covers topics for students preparing to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), including eligibility factors and timing of application, considerations for travel and employment, and tips for preparing and mailing the OPT application.

Friday, February 7^th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: Questrom Auditorium (HAR 105), 595 Commonwealth Avenue

Wednesday, February 12^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, Keefer Auditorium

Thursday, February 13^th, 5:00 pm [Register here]
Location COM 101, 640 Commonwealth Avenue

Thursday, February 20^nd, 11:00 am [Register here]
Thursday, February 20^nd, 1:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor

Friday, February 28^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: COM 101, 640 Commonwealth Avenue

Monday, March 23^rd, 2:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2^nd Floor

Friday, April 3^rd, 11:00 am [Register here]
Friday, April 3^rd, 2:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor

Friday, May 1^st, 11:00 am [Register here]
Friday, May 1^st, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2^nd Floor

Friday, June 5^th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2^nd Floor

F-1 STEM OPT: Application Basics

This workshop is designed for students who have already submitted an application for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and who may already be working on OPT. Covers advanced OPT topics including an overview of STEM OPT, allowing OPT extensions for certain Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields.  After this workshop, students should be prepared to apply for the STEM OPT extension.

Tuesday, March 3^rd, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, L110

Thursday, March 19^th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2^nd Floor 

Wednesday, April 15^th, 2:00 pm [Register here]
Location: Zoom

Life After F-1: Transitions (Cap-Gap, H-1B and alternatives)

This workshop is designed for students who have already submitted an application for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and who may already be working on OPT. Covers advanced such as moving to H-1B employment-based immigration sponsorship, and “cap-gap” extensions of status and work permission.

Thursday, March 19^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2^nd Floor

Wednesday, April 15^th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: Zoom

J-1 Academic Training: Application Basics

This workshop is intended for Boston University-sponsored Exchange Visitors who wish to apply for employment or training permission either during or at the end of their academic program. The workshop will cover the application process for J-1 Academic Training (AT), including establishing eligibility and suitable training opportunities.

Thursday, March 18^th, 1:30 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2^nd Floor

Fall 2019 ISSO student workshop schedule

September 11th, 2019 in Academic Workshops, ISSO Workshops, OPT workshops

The ISSO is pleased to announce our Fall workshop schedule on topics including on-campus employment, applying for Optional Practical Training, and Interviewing in the U.S.

For complete workshop dates, locations and session descriptions, see our calendar. Additional dates may be added during the semester.

Please note the location of the workshop you wish to attend. Workshops are offered across Charles River and Medical Campus to ensure space and access to interested students.

Space for our workshops is limited and a reservation is usually required to ensure your place. Please register at the corresponding link below for the workshops you plan to attend.

Workshops in collaboration with the BU Student Employment Office:

You’re Hired! On-Campus Employment for International Students

Join staff from the ISSO and the Student Employment Office to discuss, tips for finding a job on campus, U.S. work permission, your rights and expectations as a U.S. worker, Social Security numbers, getting paid and taxes.

Thursday, September 19^th, 11:00 am [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor

Monday, September 23^rd, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor

Workshops in collaboration with the BU Center for Career Development:

You’re Hired! On-Campus Employment for International Students

Join staff from the ISSO and the Center for Career Development (CCD) for a program designed to help international students understand the job search process in the U.S. Sharpen your interviewing techniques by bringing your strengths as an international student to the table. This workshop will help you familiarize yourself with the intricacies of the U.S. interview process while learning how to best assess your skills and international experience to answer "difficult" interview questions.

Thursday, October 24^th, 3:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor

Thursday, November 14^th, 3:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6^th Floor

US resume versus International CV for International Students

Learn the difference between a resume and a CV in the US and begin to convert your international CV to a US resume format. This session will be presented by CCD staff.

Wednesday, September 18^th, 4:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6^th Floor

Networking for International Students

Leverage your connections in the US and at home to enhance your global job or internship search. This session will be presented by CCD staff.

Wednesday, September 18^th, 4:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6^th Floor

F-1 OPT: Application Basics

This workshop covers topics for students preparing to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), including eligibility factors and timing of application, considerations for travel and employment, and tips for preparing and mailing the OPT application.

Friday, October 4^th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Friday, October 4^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: Law School Auditorium (LAW AUD), 767 Commonwealth Avenue

Thursday, October 10^th, 3:00 pm [Register here] –
Location: GSU Conference Auditorium, 775 Commonwealth Avenue, Room 228

Wednesday, October 23^rd, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 East Concord St, Keefer Auditorium, Room 111

Friday, November 1^st, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: COM 101, 640 Commonwealth Avenue

Friday, December 6^th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: COM 101, 640 Commonwealth Avenue

F-1 STEM OPT: Application Basics

This workshop is designed for students who have already submitted an application for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and who may already be working on OPT. Covers advanced OPT topics including an overview of STEM OPT, allowing OPT extensions for certain Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields. After this workshop, students should be prepared to apply for the STEM OPT extension.

Thursday, October 24^th, 5:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2^nd Floor

Thursday, November 7^th, 1:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2^nd Floor

Thursday, December 5^th, 5:00 pm [Register here]
Webinar – access instructions will be sent to registered participants

Life After F-1: Transitions (Cap-Gap, H-1B and alternatives)

This workshop is designed for students who have already submitted an application for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and who may already be working on OPT. Covers advanced such as moving to H-1B employment-based immigration sponsorship, and “cap-gap” extensions of status and work permission.

Wednesday, October 23^rd, 5:00 pm
[Register here]
Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 East Concord St, Keefer Auditorium, Room 111

Thursday, November 7^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2nd Floor

J-1 Academic Training: Application Basics

This workshop is intended for Boston University-sponsored Exchange Visitors who wish to apply for employment or training permission either during or at the end of their academic program. The workshop will cover the application process for J-1 Academic Training (AT), including establishing eligibility and suitable training opportunities.

Thursday, October 10^th, 2:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor 

Spring 2019 Workshop

January 30th, 2019 in F-1 Students, ISSO Workshops, J-1 Students, OPT workshops, STEM OPT rule

International Students & Scholars Office Spring 2019 Workshop Schedule

The ISSO is pleased to announce our spring workshop schedule on topics including on-campus employment, applying for Optional Practical Training, and Interviewing in the U.S.

For complete workshop dates, locations and session descriptions, see our the ISSO event calendar as additional dates may be added during the semester.

Please note the location of the workshop you wish to attend. Workshops are offered across Charles River and Medical Campus to ensure space and access to interested students.

Space for our workshops is limited and a reservation is usually required to ensure your place. Please register at the corresponding link below for the workshops you plan to attend.

Featured Workshops with visiting attorneys:

Immigration Considerations for Medical Students

Rhonda Tietjen & Heidi Snyder – RSST Law Group

• Starting a medical residency on OPT vs. H1-B vs. J-1 alien physician
• Options for waivers of the 212e J-1 two year home country residence requirement
• Long term planning for US permanent residence after completing residence training

       Wednesday February 20^th, 5:30 pm [Register here]
       Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, Room L110

Immigration Considerations for Entrepreneurs and Self-Employment

Elizabeth Goss - Goss Associates

• Are you interested in starting a company or working for a start-up?
• What entrepreneur activities require employer authorization?
• Session will highlight nonimmigrant visas options to support these activities

Thursday, March 7th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor

Immigration Considerations for Artists and Performers

This workshop will feature attorney Donal Eoin Reilly from Iandoli Desai & Cronin P.C.

This session will focus on employment options for artists and performers to gig during and after your program of study. It will also highlight a few immigration options for artists after Post Completion Optional Practical Training.

Thursday, April 11th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor

Workshops in collaboration with the BU Student Employment Office:

You're Hired! On-Campus Employment for International Students

Join staff from the ISSO and the Student Employment Office to discuss, tips for finding a job on campus, U.S. work permission, your rights and expectations as a U.S. worker, Social Security numbers, getting paid and taxes.

Monday, January 28th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor

Thursday, January 31st, 11:00 am [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor

Workshops in collaboration with the BU Center for Career Development:

Interviewing in the USA: A Career Workshop

Join staff from the ISSO and the Center for Career Development (CCD) for a program designed to help international students understand the job search process in the U.S. Sharpen your interviewing techniques by bringing your strengths as an international student to the table. This workshop will help you familiarize yourself with the intricacies of the U.S. interview process while learning how to best assess your skills and international experience to answer "difficult" interview questions.

Wednesday, February 27th, 4:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6th Floor

Thursday, April 4th, 3:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor

Global Job and Internship Search for International Students

Learn how to find internships and/or full-time jobs both internationally and in the US. We will start with the mechanics of preparing for the search including knowing yourself and your targeted audience. We will review resources for searching both here and abroad and various strategies to enhance your search process including social media. This session will be presented by CCD staff.

Wednesday, January 30th, 4:00 pm [Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6th Floor

US resume versus International CV for International Students

Learn the difference between a resume and a CV in the US and begin to convert your international CV to a US resume format. This session will be presented by CCD staff.

Tuesday, February 5th, 4:00 pm[Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6th Floor

Networking for International Students

Leverage your connections in the US and at home to enhance your global job or internship search. This session will be presented by CCD staff.

Tuesday, February 26th, 4:00 pm[Register with the CCD here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6th Floor

Summer Internships: CPT and pre-OPT

It’s not too early to begin planning for a summer internship. This workshop covers F-1 student employment authorization options for off-campus work and internships including: Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), Employment through designated International Organizations.

Tuesday, February 12th, 4:00 pm[Register here]
Location: COM 101, 640 Commonwealth Avenue

Wednesday, February 20th, 4:00 pm[Register here]
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6th Floor

F-1 OPT: Application Basics

This workshop covers topics for students preparing to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), including eligibility factors and timing of application, considerations for travel and employment, and tips for preparing and mailing the OPT application.

Friday, February 1st, 3:00 pm[Register here]
Friday, February 1st, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: Questrom Auditorium (HAR 105), 595 Commonwealth Avenue

Tuesday, February 12th, 5:00 pm[Register here]
Location: COM 101, 640 Commonwealth Avenue

Wednesday, February 13th, 5:30 pm[Register here]
Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, Room L110

Thursday, February 21st, 11:00 am[Register here]
Thursday, February 21st, 1:00 pm[Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor

Friday, March 1st, 3:00 pm[Register here]
Friday, March 1st, 4:00 pm[Register here]
Location: COM 101, 640 Commonwealth Avenue

Tuesday, March 5th, 4:00 [Register here]
Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, Bakst Auditorium

Friday, April 5th, 11:00 am[Register here]
Friday, April 5th, 3:00 pm[Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor

Wednesday, April 10th, 4:00 pm[Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor

Friday, May 3rd, 11:00 am[Register here]
Friday, May 3rd, 3:00 pm[Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor

Friday, June 7th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor

F-1 OPT: Transitions (STEM OPT, Cap-Gap, H-1B and alternatives)

This workshop is designed for students who have already submitted an application for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and who may already be working on OPT. Covers advanced OPT topics including an overview of STEM OPT, allowing OPT extensions for certain Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields, moving to H-1B employment-based immigration sponsorship, and “cap-gap” extensions of status and work permission.

Tuesday, March 5th, 5:00 [Register here]
Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, Bakst Auditorium

Wednesday, April 10th, 5:00 pm[Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2nd Floor

J-1 Academic Training: Application Basics

This workshop is intended for Boston University-sponsored Exchange Visitors who wish to apply for employment or training permission either during or at the end of their academic program. The workshop will cover the application process for J-1 Academic Training (AT), including establishing eligibility and suitable training opportunities.

Thursday, March 21st, 3:00 pm[Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2nd Floor

Fall 2018 Workshops

September 17th, 2018 in Academic Workshops, ISSO Workshops, OPT workshops

The ISSO is pleased to announce our fall workshop schedule on topics including on-campus employment, applying for Optional Practical Training, and Interviewing in the U.S.

For complete workshop dates, locations and session descriptions, see our calendar. Additional dates may be added during the semester, including featured workshops and International Education Week events.

Please note the location of the workshop you wish to attend. Workshops are offered across Charles River and Medical Campus to ensure space and access to interested students.

Space for our workshops is limited and a reservation is usually required to ensure your place. Please use the registration link to register only for the workshops you plan to attend.

You’re Hired! On-Campus Employment for International Students

Join staff from the ISSO and the Student Employment Office to discuss, tips for finding a job on campus, U.S. work permission, your rights and expectations as a U.S. worker, Social Security numbers, getting paid and taxes.

Thursday, September 20^th, 11:00 am [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor (South Entrance)

Monday, September 24^th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor (South Entrance)

F-1 OPT: Application Basics

This workshop covers topics for students preparing to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), including eligibility factors and timing of application, considerations for travel and employment, and tips for preparing and mailing the OPT application.

Friday, October 5^th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Friday, October 5^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: COM 101, 640 Commonwealth Avenue

Thursday, October 11^th, 11:00 am [Register here] –
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor (South Entrance)

Wednesday, October 24^th, 4:00 pm [Register here]
Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord Street, Room L110

Friday, November 2^nd, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: COM 101, 640 Commonwealth Avenue

Thursday, November 8^th, 4:00 pm
Zoom Webinar – stay tuned for registration information

Friday, December 7^th, 3:00 pm [Register here]
Location: COM 101, 640 Commonwealth Avenue

J-1 Academic Training: Application Basics

This workshop is intended for Boston University-sponsored Exchange Visitors who wish to apply for employment or training permission either during or at the end of their academic program. The workshop will cover the application process for J-1 Academic Training (AT), including establishing eligibility and suitable training opportunities.

Thursday, October 11^th, 2:00 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor (South Entrance) 

[New Workshop Topic!] Maintaining F-1 Status During OPT and STEM:Navigating employment, travel and SEVIS reporting

This workshop is intended for Boston University graduates who are on F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) or the OPT STEM Extension for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math majors. Maintaining status during OPT and STEM requires careful attention to employment restrictions and meeting SEVIS reporting requirements. This new ISSO workshop will address common questions we receive from OPT and STEM students and will review SEVIS reporting responsibilities and tools available to ensure compliance.

Thursday, October 18^th, 5:00 pm
Zoom Webinar – stay tuned for registration information

F-1 OPT: Transitions (STEM OPT, Cap-Gap, H-1B and alternatives)

This workshop is designed for students who have already submitted an application for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and who may already be working on OPT. Covers advanced OPT topics including an overview of STEM OPT, allowing OPT extensions for certain Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields, moving to H-1B employment-based immigration sponsorship, and “cap-gap” extensions of status and work permission.

Wednesday, October 24^th, 5:00 pm [Register here]
Location: BU School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, Room L110

Thursday, November 8^th, 5:00 pm
Zoom Webinar – stay tuned for registration information

Interviewing in the USA: A Career Workshop

Join staff from the ISSO and the Center for Career Development (CCD) for a program designed to help international students understand the job search process in the U.S. Sharpen your interviewing techniques by bringing your strengths as an international student to the table. This workshop will help you familiarize yourself with the intricacies of the U.S. interview process while learning how to best assess your skills and international experience to answer "difficult" interview questions.

Thursday, October 25^th, 3:00-4:30 pm [Register here]
Location: ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2^nd Floor (South Entrance) 

Thursday, November 15^th, 1:30-3:00 pm [Register here]
Offered as part of International Education Week
Location: CCD, 100 Bay State Road, 6^th Floor

We look forward to seeing your at a workshop soon!

Your ISSO Staff

ISSO Spring Workshops Announced

February 1st, 2016 in Academic Workshops, ISSO Workshops, OPT workshops

The ISSO is pleased to announce our spring workshop schedule. For dates, locations and session descriptions, see our full calendar.

Workshops include a range of topics including Academic Success in the U.S. Classroom, and well as U.S. Employment and Careers:

International Student Employment Authorization

• F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT): Application Basics
  • February 5, February 10, February 18 and other dates
• F-1 Optional Practical Training: Transitions (STEM, Cap-Gap)
  • February 25 and other dates
• Employment Authorization for Summer Internships: CPT and pre-OPT
  • March 3 - 3:00-4:00; and March 16 - 4:00-5:00
• J-1 Academic Training: Application Basics
  • March 17, 3:00-4:00

Academic Workshop Series: A five-part collaborative workshop series for international graduate students

• Keys to Academic Success in the U.S. Classroom
  • Tuesday, February 9 - 4:00-5:00
• Avoiding Plagiarism
  • Tuesday, February 16 - 4:00-5:00
• Keys to Successful College Writing
  • Tuesday, February 23 - 4:00-5:00
• U.S. Libraries & Library Support at BU
  • Thursday, February 25 – 4:00-5:00
• Tips for Exam Success
  • Tuesday, March 1 - 4:00-5:00

Collaborative workshops with the Center for Career Development:

• Interviewing in the USA: A Career Workshop
  • February 26, 3:00-4:30; March 22 - 3:00-4:30

F-1 Optional Practical Training Workshops

September 8th, 2015 in ISSO Workshops, OPT workshops

The ISSO offers two workshops for students interested in learning more about F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) – “Application Basics” for students preparing to apply, and “Transitions” for students already approved for OPT and planning the next step. Pre-registration for these workshops in not required, but space is limited.

F-1 Optional Practical Training: Application Basics

This workshop is offered the first Friday of every month (excluding January and September), and other dates. This session answers basis questions for students planning to apply for OPT, including eligibility factors, timing, considerations for travel and employment, and tips for preparing and mailing  the OPT application.

• Friday,  October 2
• Friday, October 9
• Thursday, October 22
• Friday, November 6
• Friday, December 4

*All sessions 3:00-4:00 p.m.

F-1 Optional Practical Training: Transitions (STEM, Cap-Gap)

This workshop is for students who have already submitted an OPT application and who may already be on a period of OPT. This workshop covers advanced topics including 17-month extensions for students in certain Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields and questions about moving to H-1B employment-based immigration sponsorship, including “cap-gap” extensions of status and work permission.

• Thursday, October 29 - (double session!) 3:00-4:00 p.m. and 4:00-5:00 p.m.
• Friday, November 13 - 3:00-4:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, December 2 - 5:00-6:00 p.m.

All sessions will take place at the ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor.

Pre-Registration for these workshops is not required.
Due to space limitations, the workshops are limited to 60 participants each.

Interviewing in the USA: A Career Workshop

September 8th, 2015 in Academic Workshops, ISSO Workshops

Come join us for a program designed to help international students understand the job search process in the U.S.

The workshop will be offered twice.

Thursday, October 15th, 2015
3:00 – 4:30 pm

Wednesday, November 4th, 2015
3:00-4:30 pm

Both Sessions will be held at

International Students & Scholars Office
888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor
(Entrance at back of building)

Sharpen your interviewing techniques by bringing your strengths as an international student to the table. This workshop will help you familiarize yourself with the intricacies of the U.S. interview process while learning how to best assess your skills and international experience to answer "difficult" interview questions such as:

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Tell me about yourself?
• Do you need company sponsorship?

While these questions may seem simple, they are actually multi-layered. Learn to respond with well-informed answers that will lead to more dynamic interviews.

No confirmation required.
Refreshments will be served

Due to space limitations, these workshops are limited to 50 participants. Admittance is on a first-come basis.

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Academic Success Workshop Series For International Students

September 8th, 2015 in Academic Workshops, ISSO Workshops

Keys to Academic Success in the U.S. Classroom (Sept 22, 23)

Tuesday 4:00-5:00 at ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor
Wednesday 6:00-7:00 at 100 Bay State Road, 5th Floor, Room 545
Offered by: International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO)

Avoiding Plagiarism (ERC) (Sept 29, 30)

Tuesday 3:00-4:00 at ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor
Wednesday 6:00-7:00 at 100 Bay State Road, 5th Floor, Room 545
Offered by: Educational Resource Center (ERC)

Keys to Successful College Writing (Oct 6, 7)

Tuesday 3:00-4:00 at ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor
Wednesday 6:00-7:00 at 100 Bay State Road, 5th Floor, Room 545
Offered by: CAS Writing Center and COM Writing Center

Tips for Exam Success (Oct 20, 21)

Tuesday 3:00-4:00 at ISSO, 888 Commonwealth Ave, 2nd Floor
Wednesday 6:00-7:00 at 100 Bay State Road, 5th Floor, Room 545
Offered by: Center for English Language & Orientation Programs (CELOP)

U.S. Libraries & Library Support at BU (Oct 27, 28)

Tuesday 3:00-4:00, Mugar Library inside main entrance
Wednesday 6:00-7:00, Mugar Library inside main entrance
Offered by: BU Libraries

For more information see:
Website

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OPT Workshop at BU Schools and Colleges

March 2nd, 2015 in Fall 2024 Workshops, OPT workshops

The following OPT "Basics" workshops will be presented by ISSO advisors at schools and colleges:

See our complete list of Spring 2015 workshops.