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    • ISSO Newsletter: February 2007

    The ISSO sends out a monthly web-based newsletter. As it contains the latest information about immigration and ISSO services, it is very important that you read it! We promise to try and keep it as short as possible. View the ISSO newsletter archive here.

    Newsletter Contents:

    1. Immigration News and Reminders
      Visas after Graduation Talk: Feb. 21st, 7-9pm
    2. Tax Information
    3. ISSO Spring 2007 Programs
    4. Apply Now for the ISSO Spring 2007 Book Award
    5. New Stress Management Group for International Graduate Students
    6. Summer English for International Students and Scholars Program
    7. Out Internacional, LGBTQ Group, Meets Every Other Wednesday at 8 pm
    8. The Winter Itch: A Message from: Gannett: Cornell University Health Services
    9. Let’s Talk: CAPS off-site counseling at ISSO
    10. Have Immigration Questions?: Come to ISSO Office Hours


    Immigration News


    Visas after Graduation Talk: Feb. 21st, 7-9pm
    Thursday, February 21st, 7-9pm, Hollis E. Cornell Auditorium
    Presented by Carolyn S. Lee, JD, and ISSO Staff

    Come find out everything you will need to know about staying in the U.S. after graduation. Carolyn S. Lee and ISSO staff will explain the procedures for working immediately after graduating, working long-term in the U.S. and eventually becoming a permanent resident (green card holder) if you so desire. This information is particularly crucial at the present time, given the H-1B cap and new backlogs with employment-based green cards.



    Tax Information


    Read the ISSO tax information here.

    Read the tax frequently asked questions here.

    Tax season is here! The deadline to file your tax return is April 16, 2007

    If this will be your first time filing tax forms in the U.S., or if you are confused about the U.S. tax system, please click here and start by reading through our TAX FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) here.

    U.S FEDERAL TAX forms:
    The ISSO has purchased web based software for all internationals in the Cornell Community to assist with filing U.S. Federal NON-RESIDENT Tax Forms. All internationals temporarily residing in the U.S. are required to file at least one U.S. Federal Tax Form (the 8843) even if you were not employed. The tax software will help you fill out that form and will determine if you need to fill out other forms as well. To determine if you are Non-Resident for tax purposes, click here.

    TO ACCESS THE SOFTWARE:
    You only need your net id and password to access the software. Click here to get to our tax information page and the software.

    NEW YORK STATE TAX forms:
    The software described above does NOT complete New York State tax forms. Click here for everything you need to file your New York State tax forms. (PLEASE NOTE: You must complete your federal tax form BEFORE you may complete your New York State tax form.)

    Questions about W-2s and 1042s's:
    Click here for any questions regarding W-2 and / or 1042s forms.



    ISSO Spring 2007 Trips and Programs


    A note about trips: Dates and times are subject to change. Prices and other details will be announced via e-mail on the ISSO-NEWS-L and International-L e-lists. Unless otherwise indicated, trip sign ups will take place on the date specified at 9:00 A.M. at the ISSO (B-50 Caldwell).


    February

    1st (Thursday)
    First Friends of International Students and Scholars Meeting
    6:00 - 8:00 PM
    Willard Straight Hall International Lounge
    The Friends of International Students and Scholars group provides a forum for casual discussion of cultural issues, developing new friendships, and sharing information and resources to help make Ithaca a home.

    6th (Tuesday)
    Job/Internship Interview Program for International Students
    5:00 - 6:30 pm
    B45 Warren Hall
    RSVP to careerevents@cornell.edu required.
    Cornell Career Services Donna Ramil will teach you the ins and outs of the U.S. job-hunting culture, and how to put your best self forward during the interview process; then, learn how to schedule a mock interview during the semester.

    8th (Thursday)
    "Winter Road Safety"
    12:20 - 1:00 PM
    100 Caldwell Hall
    A must for all drivers new to driving in snowy, icy conditions! Cornell Police Officer Ray Price will present tips on driving safely in winter on Ithaca's hilly streets.

    8th (Thursday)
    Valentines Day Celebration at Coffee Hour
    3:30 - 5:30 PM
    Big Red Barn
    Create traditional valentine cards for your friends, family, or sweetheart!

    9th (Friday)
    Cornell Men’s Basketball vs. Brown
    6:00 PM
    Newman Arena, Bartels Hall
    With ISSO Pre-Game Pizza Party! Game starts at 7:00 PM. Tickets available at the ISSO ($2 for students, $3 for staff/faculty/family. Children under 5 free.)

    13th (Tuesday)
    "Obtaining a New York State Drivers License"
    12:20 - 1:00 PM
    100 Caldwell Hall
    International and non-New York State drivers can learn how to obtain a New York State Drivers license.

    21 (Wednesday)
    "Navigating Your Student Health Insurance and Staying Healthy"
    4:30 - 6:00 PM
    Willard Straight Hall International Lounge
    Jo Ann Molnar, Student Health Insurance Administrator, will present a brief history of health insurance in the United States, describe the different types of medical insurance, and provide tips on using your student health insurance benefits. Jan Talbot, Gannett Health Educator, will provide specific information on health care resources available at Gannett and in Ithaca. Bring your health insurance and health care questions, and the experts will answer!

    21st (Wednesday)
    "Visas After Graduation"
    7:00 -9:00PM
    Goldwin Smith, Hollis E. Cornell
    Presented by Carolyn S. Lee, JD, Immigration Attorney along with ISSO Staff Come learn about the possibilities for you to stay and work in the U.S. after you graduate. This information is particularly crucial at the present time, given the H-1B cap and new backlogs with employment-based green cards.

    25th (Sunday)
    Skiing/Tubing/Snowboarding at Greek Peak
    Sign-ups start at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, February 6th.

    March

    13th (Tuesday)
    F-1 Student Off-Campus Work Authorization
    3:00 - 4:00pm
    100 Caldwell Hall
    ISSO Staff will explain how F-1 students may gain off campus work authorization.

    18th-21st (Sunday-Wednesday)
    Spring Break Trip to Washington, DC
    Sign-ups start at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, February 20th.

    27th (Tuesday)
    New York State Tax Workshop for Internationals
    1:00 - 3:00pm
    100 Caldwell Hall
    ISSO staff will explain how to complete the New York State Tax Forms. You must bring all relevant tax documents (W-2 and/or 1042S AND your completed federal forms) with you to the session.

    April

    2nd (Monday)
    New York State Tax Workshop for Internationals
    2:00 - 4:00pm
    100 Caldwell Hall
    ISSO staff will explain how to complete the New York State Tax Forms. You must bring all relevant tax documents W-2 and/or 1042S AND your completed federal forms) with you to the session.

    7th (Saturday) *CHANGE OF DATE!*
    Corning Museum of Glass, Corning, New York
    Sign-ups start at 9:00 AM on Friday, March 9th.

    13th (Friday)
    New York State Tax Workshop for Internationals
    1:00 - 3:00pm
    100 Caldwell Hall
    ISSO staff will explain how to complete the New York State Tax Forms. You must bring all relevant tax documents (W-2 and/or 1042S AND your completed federal forms) with you to the session.

    20th (Friday)
    F-1 Student Off-Campus Work Authorization
    1:00 - 2:00pm
    100 Caldwell Hall
    ISSO Staff will explain how F-1 students may gain off campus work authorization.

    24th (Tuesday)
    University Reception for Graduating International Students
    5:00 - 6:30 PM
    Memorial Room, Willard Straight Hall
    Undergrads and grads: Celebrate your graduation with your family, professors, and friends!

    Plus, every Thursday while classes are in session...
    International Coffee Hour
    3:30-5:30 PM, the Big Red Barn
    Make new friends or catch up with old ones as you enjoy coffee, tea, & light refreshments. This weekly event is free and all are welcome!

    Questions about these programs? Please contact Mary Schlarb, 255-5243, mhs13@cornell.edu.


    Apply Now for the ISSO Spring 2007 Book Award


    Each semester, the ISSO awards two Book Awards of $500 each to two international students to help defray the costs of books and supplies needed for classes. This award was established in 2001 to recognize the vast contributions that the international student population adds to Cornell.

    Deadline: February 28, 2007
    Students must submit a hard copy of their application in person or by mail to B-50 Caldwell Hall.

    Qualifications
    To be eligible for the ISSO Book Award, the student must meet the following criteria:

    • Has completed at least one semester of study at Cornell University and is currently registered as a full-time student
    • Entered the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa and currently holds valid non-immigrant status (i.e. F-1, J-1)
    • Is not currently receiving scholarship money from the ISSO
    • Has contributed to the international community on campus
    • Has not previously received the ISSO Book Award

    Application Process
    On a separate piece of paper, please provide the following information and return to the ISSO at B-50 Caldwell Hall. All of the information you submit will be considered during the decision process:

    1) Biographical Information:

    • Name
    • Local Address and phone number
    • Email
    • Country of citizenship
    • College (Undergraduates) or field (Graduates)
    • Current non-immigrant status (F-1/J-1) & degree sought (Bachelor/Master/PhD)
    • Copy of most recent Transcript from University Registrar (available at Registrar's Office in Day Hall, or on-line at www.transcript.cornell.edu ).

    2) Please provide answers to the following questions:

    a) How have you contributed to international life at Cornell University (i.e. participation in orientation, student organizations, etc.)? How have these experiences enhanced your life at Cornell and the life of your peers?

    b) What has been your greatest accomplishment (personal, academic, research, etc.) since coming to Cornell University?

    c) Describe your financial needs and circumstances. How will this award assist you in meeting your needs?

    DEADLINE Please provide your application in hard copy by Wednesday, February 28, 2007 to:

    International Students and Scholars Office
    Book Award
    B50 Caldwell Hall
    Ithaca, NY 14853



    New Stress Management Group for International Graduate Students


    This free and confidential 6-week discussion group not only helps you develop stress management skills, but also provides a space where you can talk about daily struggles and the challenges of living far away from home.

    When: Wednesdays, 4:45-6:15 p.m. Two 6-week series are planned. One begins 2/7/07; the other, 3/28/07
    Where: Anabel Taylor, Room 314
    Facilitator: Ya-Shu Liang, PhD Counselor from Gannett

    A 30-minute pre-group interview is required. E-mail Ya-Shu (YL446@cornell.edu) or call 255-5208 to schedule an appointment.

    • Want to know more about this group? Go to: www.gannett.cornell.edu/CAPS/groupsFAQ
    • Want to talk, but not in a group setting? Check out other services through CAPS, including free off-site walk-in consultations (i.e.,“Let’s Talk”). Go to: www.gannett.cornell.edu/CAPS
    • Not sure this group is right for you? E-mail Ya-Shu YL446@cornell.edu with your questions or concerns.



    Cornell's Summer Sessions will offer English for International Students and Scholars (EISS) Program


      June 25 - August 3, 2007


    The Summer EISS provides full-time intensive English instruction and cultural orientation to students and scholars interested in working and studying in an academic environment in the U.S. or in using English professionally. The program offers instruction at all levels, from low intermediate through very high advanced.

    EISS is designed to help participants:

    • improve their ability to speak and write accurately in English;
    • communicate in culturally appropriate ways;
    • prepare for studying or working at a U.S. university;
    • develop the language skills required to achieve their professional, academic, and personal goals;
    • practice academic reading, note-taking, and listening to lectures; and
    • use English in daily communication.

    The program features small class size to enhance students' ability to learn English and to enable instructors to provide personal attention and encouragement. Classes are scheduled between 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Program instructors also offer optional afternoon classes on topics such as TOEFL preparation, pronunciation, US culture, idioms, and academic presentations.

    As members of the Cornell community, EISS participants are eligible to use the Language Resource Center, the Cornell libraries, sports facilities, and on-campus computer labs. In addition, students are invited to attend the Summer Session weekly concert and lecture series, and to participate in weekend trips sponsored by the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO).

    The summer program is authorized to issue a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant [F-1] Student Status). Interested students should apply before May 1 to allow time for visa processing.

    For more information and to register, please visit the program Web site at http://www.sce.cornell.edu/exec/eiss/summer/index.php, or contact Mary Adie at Tel. 1-607-255-7624 Fax 1-607-255-8942 E-mail : mea36@cornell.edu, or by calling 255-7259.



    Out Internacional, LGBTQ Group, Meets Every Other Wednesday at 8 pm


    OUT Internacional (OI) is a confidential discussion group for International students - grad or undergrad - who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning (LGBTQ).

    This group started in Fall 2006 and was a success! OI will continue to address issues and themes important to International LGBTQ students. This semester we'll spice it up by watching/discussing films that address LGBT issues from a non-American perspective and introducing LGBT news from around the world. Some films that group members requested last semester include I Exist (2003), Yossi & Jaeger (2002), Fire (1996), to name a few. We meet EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY from 8 - 9 PM (note later time!) on the following dates:

    • Feb 14
    • Feb 28
    • Mar 14
    • Mar 28
    • Apr 11
    • Apr 25
    • May 6

    *** Tasty dessert and beverages will be provided ***

    WHERE DOES THE GROUP MEET? Please contact Jamie (jcs14@cornell.edu) if you are interested in attending, if you have ANY questions or for specific details about WHERE we are meeting.

    OUT Internacional is a free group and is sponsored by the Office of Student Support in the Dean of Students Office. For flyers translated into Chinese or Korean, please contact Jamie(jcs14@cornell.edu).



    The Winter Itch: A Message from: Gannett, Cornell University Health Services



    Just as you have made adjustments to your wardrobe to ward off the cold temperatures during the winter months, you also may need to make changes in your daily routine to protect your skin and nasal passages. This time of the year, the combination of cold temperatures, low humidity (outdoors and indoors) and steady wind can dry out your skin, making it look scaly or cracked; and feeling tight, itchy or irritated. While it’s tempting to take long hot showers or soaks in a tub to warm up, it’s important to remember that excessive exposure to water can further dry skin. Deodorant soaps also can strip away natural oils on the skin that seal in moisture.

    To stay comfortable in your own skin and prevent skin problems here are some inexpensive things you can do to help remedy the situation:

    • Take short showers and baths (less than 10 minutes), using a gentle, non-deodorant soap, and warm rather than hot water.
    • Wash only those parts of the body that sweat or need cleaning and/or shower every other day instead of daily.
    • Pat, rather than rub the skin dry and apply a good moisturizer while your skin is still damp.
    • Use lotions and creams that have emollients (mineral oil, shea butter, petroleum) to soften dry skin and provide a protective layer to seal in moisture.
    • Moisturizers with humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin, urea and sorbitol) can be used on normal or oily skin to absorb moisture.
    • Creams work well on lips, hands other parts of the body that can become very dry or chapped.
    • Protect your hands, face and lips from the drying effects of wind and cold temperatures by using moisturizers, lip balm and protective layers of clothing (hats, gloves).
    • Use an over-the-counter saline nasal spray to add moisture to dry nasal membranes.

    In cold temperatures, it’s easy to forget that even though we aren’t sweating, our bodies are still losing water through evaporation. Drinking several glasses of water daily will help keep your body functioning optimally, even though it will not prevent dry skin.

    Most pharmacies, including Gannett’s, offer several products to prevent dry, chapped skin.


    Submitted by:
    Janis Talbot (jit1@cornell.edu) 255-4782
    Health Educator, International Student Health Advocate http://www.gannett.cornell.edu



    Let's Talk: CAPS off-site counseling at ISSO


    Each Thursday from 1:30-4:30 pm, Wai-Kwong Wong will be available at the ISSO for free and confidential counselling and consultation. No appointment is necessary! Graduate students, undergraduate students, and family members are welcome to come talk to Wai about:

    • personal growth and challenges
    • depression, anxiety and stress
    • relationship issues
    • family issues
    • cultural, racial and ethnic issues
    • sexual health concerns
    • negotiating academic environment
    • any other issues of concern
    • referral and information

    For more information about Counselling and Psychological Services and a schedule of available times for off-site, walk-in consultations visit: http://www.gannett.cornell.edu/CAPS/offsiteSupport.html.



    Have Immigration Questions?
    Come to ISSO Office Hours


    ISSO Advising Hours:
    Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 9-12:00; 1:00-4:30
    Wednesday 1:00-4:30

    Advisors are available on a walk-in basis except from 12-1 P.M. daily, or by appointment. You may stop by to see us during office hours, check out our website, email us at isso@cornell.edu, or call us at 255-5243.