Skip to main content
  • Contact ISSO

    • ISSO Newsletter: September 2009

    The ISSO sends out a monthly web-based newsletter. It contains the latest information about immigration and ISSO services, as well as important reminders about work authorization, visa applications, and more. Please read it! View the ISSO newsletter archive here.

    Newsletter Contents:

    1. Welcome and Introductions
    2. Immigration News and Reminders
      Newly Arriving International Students Must Check In!
      Graduating Dec./Jan.? Apply EARLY for F-1 OPT!
      Visas After Graduation: H1B and more!
    3. Upcoming ISSO Trips and Programs
      Highlight: Interview Workshop/Prepare for Career Fair(9/10)
      Fall Program Schedule
    4. Need Money for Books? Apply for the ISSO Book Award!
    5. The ISSO's Electronic Lists: A Summary
    6. New Cornell International Host Program
    7. Let’s Talk: CAPS off-site counseling at ISSO
    8. Community News, Announcements & Information
      Influenza Self Care Kit: A Message from Gannett
      Protect your Personal Property with Renter's Insurance!
      Phishing and Identity Theft
      2-1-1 Tompkins: Community Services Information
    9. Have Immigration Questions?: Come to ISSO Office Hours


    Welcome and Introductions


    Whether you are a new or continuing student, the ISSO welcomes you to the 2009-2010 academic year and to the first edition of our monthly electronic newsletter!

    Our newsletter contains immigration updates and reminders, and the latest information about ISSO services; it is very important that you read it! View the ISSO newsletter archive here.

    Returning students may notice a few staff changes at the ISSO. Mary Wheaton retired in June, after nearly 13 years at the ISSO and 43 at Cornell! We wish her a very happy retirement. Cindy Austic left Cornell in July, after working at the ISSO for more than 11 years, to move to the beautiful state of Georgia and be closer to family. Elizabeth Shedd has moved out from behind the reception desk and into a new role as an Immigration and Programming Assistant. Finally, the ISSO is very happy to welcome Amanda Hooker, also an Immigration and Programming Assistant.

    We thought this first newsletter would be a good opportunity to introduce you to each staff person in the ISSO team:

    Brendan O’Brien, Director
    Brendan O'Brien has worked in the ISSO since 1989 and became director of the office in 1998. He entered the field of international education after studying abroad in Kenya and Israel as an undergraduate, and in France as a graduate student. He enjoys travel and learning about the history and culture of other countries. Brendan's wife Sachiko works in the Vet College. Their two young daughters keep them very busy. Brendan enjoys all sports, particularly basketball, swimming, running, biking and American football. Brendan enjoys working in the ISSO and looks forward to meeting as many new students as possible!!

    Laura Taylor, Associate Director
    Laura has been at the ISSO for nearly 15 years. She is a native of the area, but has also lived in England, Colorado and, briefly, Indonesia. In her spare time, she likes to dance, make music, bike, run, garden, paint and kayak. Laura loves the Ithaca community, and never tires of the beauty of the region.

    Sarah Hilsman, Associate Director for Student Immigration Services
    Sarah came to Cornell in 1980 for her undergraduate degree in Government, then transferred to Fine Arts and has worked at Cornell off and on since then. She started at the ISSO in 2002 after advising international students at University of Texas at Austin. Although Sarah grew up partially in Manhattan, she far preferred her adventures in the woods and fields as a kid in a tiny town in Connecticut famous for Lyme Disease (Lyme, CT). She has traveled in India, Turkey and Italy among other places. Sarah has a teenage daughter and enjoys African dancing.

    Adriana Rovers, Assistant Director for Programming Services
    Adriana began working for Cornell in 1995 and at the ISSO a little over seven years ago. Coming to the ISSO was a great career move and has been a very rewarding and challenging experience. In addition to immigration advising, she is the Assistant Director for Programming Services. Outside of the office in her spare time, she enjoys keeping in touch with her four grown daughters, flower gardening, 1890's house restoration projects, traveling, and keeping physically active with swing dancing and rollerblading.

    Mariah Sawyer, Immigration Advisor and Program Coordinator
    Mariah grew up in Ithaca and, after attending college in North Carolina and living for a year in Arizona, moved back to the area in 2000 and started working at the ISSO. She has studied abroad in France and Italy and has traveled throughout much of Western Europe. Outside of work, Mariah enjoys creating art, listening to music, reading, watching movies, and spending time outdoors hiking, camping, swimming and kayaking. Her favorite part of the job is meeting people from all over the world with such varied backgrounds and interests.

    Bill Webster, Immigration Data Specialist
    Bill is responsible for monitoring and maintaining international student and scholar data. He is an avid mountain biker, skier and motorcyclist.

    Steve Shumway, Administrative Manager
    Steve has been employed at Cornell since 1989 and has spent the last five years at the ISSO. When not at work, he enjoys immersing himself in nature -- hiking, canoeing, and cross-country skiing are his favorite pursuits. He's also a classically trained singer, performing throughout the region as a tenor soloist and as a member of the Cayuga Vocal Ensemble.

    Scott Beemer, Immigration and Accounts Assistant
    Scott has been working at Cornell for over three and a half years. A Cornell graduate from the Class of 2003, Scott majored in government and history. He traveled to Japan after graduation and worked as an English teacher in two high schools through the JET Program. He worked at the Johnson School's Career Management Center from his return to the United States in 2005 until he joined the ISSO. Scott enjoys working both with people and with data and has a particular interest in meeting and helping international students and scholars, so he is excited to be on board at the ISSO. Outside of work, Scott enjoys travel, creative writing, and photography.

    Amanda Hooker, Immigration and Programming Assistant
    Amanda is the ISSO's newest staff member, having just joined us in August. She is originally from Whitney Point, NY, just south of Ithaca. Amanda started her career at Cornell in 2007 in the Student Employment office and has since worked in Alumni Affairs and Development and University Communications. When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, fiancé, and their 2 cats. She also enjoys reading, sewing, finding hidden waterfalls, and wine tours in the beautiful Finger Lakes region. Amanda is extremely excited to be working in ISSO and cannot wait to meet (and help) people from all over the world.

    Elizabeth Shedd, Immigration and Programming Assistant
    Elizabeth has been at the ISSO for a little over two years. She's originally from the Washington, DC area but grew up in Ithaca, and has attended school in Ireland and France. She's traveled throughout Europe but unfortunately hasn't see the Scandinavian countries (yet). When she's not at the ISSO, you can find her cooking, writing, watching movies or dancing.



    Immigration News


    Newly Arriving International Students MUST Check in at ISSO!
    Newly Arriving International Students MUST check in to the ISSO no later than 30 days after the start date on your I-20 or DS-2019. If you do not check in at the ISSO, you may lose your valid immigration status in the U.S.

    To check in, come to the ISSO at B-50 Caldwell Hall and bring with you:

    • your passport,
    • I-94 card and
    • I-20 or DS-2019.

    Graduating after this fall semester? Apply EARLY for F-1 OPT!
    If you are graduating this fall semester, and you want to work on F-1 OPT after graduating, APPLY EARLY for your F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization. The application does go to the immigration service centers and these applications have slowed down a great deal in the last 5 months. It has been taking close to 4 months for most people to receive their OPT work cards. You may start applying in October if you will graduate after this Fall semester. Please read about OPT, download an application from our OPT web pages.



    Visas After Graduation Talk

    Monday, October 19, 2009, 7-9pm, Hollis E. Cornell Auditorium
    Presented by Roseanne Mayer, JD, and ISSO Staff

    Come find out everything you will need to know about staying in the U.S. after graduation. Carolyn 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.





    Upcoming ISSO Trips & Programs



    Highlight: Interview Workshop/Prepare for Career Fair (Starting 9/10)

    Fall semester is here, and so is job-hunting season for students seeking internships or post-graduation positions!

    Cornell Career Services and the ISSO are offering this program to help international students prepare for job/internship interviews. Learn the ins and outs of the U.S. job-hunting culture, and how to put your best-self forward during the interview process; then, have a chance to practice during a mock-interview process.

    In addition, with the Career Fair Days coming up on Sept 15 (General) and Sept 16 (Technical), we will discuss tips on preparing for the fair. If you are planning to attend the fairs, don't miss out on this program!

    For additional information on the career fairs, click here. For a list of employers attending the fairs, click on "Registered Organizations".

    There are two parts to this workshop:
    1) "Job & Internship Interview Preparation Workshop and Preparing for the Career Fair Days"
    Thursday, Sept 10, 2009
    5-6:30 PM
    B45 Warren Hall (on the Ag Quad).
    If you want to attend this workshop please RSVP by e-mail.
    In the subject line, write: "RSVP, ISSO Mock Interview Program, 9/10"
    Refreshments will be served!


    2) One-half hour Mock/Practice Interview, on either Thursday, Sept 24, or Friday, Sept 25, some time between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM in 203 Barnes Hall. Details about signing up for an interview will be given at the workshop.

    Only those students who attend the Interview Preparation Workshop on Sept 10 will be eligible for the mock interviews. All details and instructions for the interviews will be given at the workshop.



    Fall Program Schedule

    A note about trips: Dates and times are subject to change. Prices and other details will be announced via e-mail on the iPrograms-L and International-L e-lists.

    September

    10 Thursday
    Preparing International Students for Job Interview/Career Fair
    5:00 PM, B45 Warren Hall
    with Donna Ramil from Cornell Career Services
    RSVP required. See above.

    19 Saturday
    Day Trip to Niagara Falls, New York
    This trip and its waiting list are full.



    October

    10-12 Saturday-Monday
    Fall Break Trip to New York City
    Reserve a space online Tuesday, September 15 beginning at 9:00 AM.

    17 Saturday
    Men’s Football Game, Cornell Big Red vs. Fordham
    Come to the ISSO pre-game pizza party, 12 Noon at the Big Red Barn!

    29 Thursday
    Special Halloween International Coffee Hour!
    3:30-5:30 PM, Big Red Barn
    Enjoy "spooktacular" treats, pumpkin carving, games, and more. Prizes for those daring enough to come in costume! Open to international and US students, staff, faculty, and families.



    November

    16 Monday
    Driving in Winter and Applying for a New York State Driver’s License
    5:00 PM, Myron Taylor Hall, Room TBA.

    26 Thursday
    Annual Traditional American Thanksgiving Feast
    Organized by Campus Life and the ISSO. Location and ticket sales information TBA.

    Plus every Thursday, through May 2nd, join us for International Coffee Hour from 3:30-5:30 PM in the Big Red Barn. Meet new friends over light refreshments and world music. All are welcome!

    Are you interested in taking one of our trips? Here is what you need to know! Prices and other details will be announced via email on the iPrograms-L and international-L e-lists. Spaces are generally limited and participants are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. In most cases, minimal trip fees will apply. We are now offering on line reservations for the majority of our trips. Unless otherwise indicated, interested participants will be required to complete a reservation form online. The link will be provided on this page on scheduled day of sign ups. After reserving a space, individuals must come into the ISSO (B-50 Caldwell Hall) to make payment and sign a trip waiver within a designated number of days. The ISSO accepts cash (exact change) or checks made out to Cornell University. The ISSO cannot accept credit cards or bursar charges.



    Need Money for Books? Apply for the ISSO Book Award!

    Each semester, the ISSO presents a Book Award to one international undergraduate student and one international graduate student to help defray the costs of books and supplies needed for classes. This year the amount of each award will be $250. This award was established in 2001 to recognize the vast contributions that the international student population adds to Cornell. Selection criteria include: contribution to international life at Cornell, personal and academic achievement, and financial need.

    DEADLINE: 4:30 PM, Monday, September 14, 2009
    Please provide your application in hard copy to:
    International Students and Scholars Office
    Attn: Book Award
    B50 Caldwell Hall
    Ithaca, NY 14853

    Eligibility
    To qualify to apply for the ISSO Book Award, a student must meet the following criteria:

    • has completed at least one semester of study at Cornell University
    • is currently registered as a full-time student
    • 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
    Please type up and submit the following information:

    1) Biographical Information:

    • Name
    • Local address and phone number
    • Email address
    • College (Undergraduates) or field (Graduates)
    • Degree sought (Bachelor/Master/PhD)
    • Country of citizenship
    • Current non-immigrant status (F-1/J-1)

    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?

    3) Obtain and submit a copy of your most recent transcript from the Office of the University Registrar (available at the Registrar’s Office in Day Hall, or on-line at www.transcript.cornell.edu).



    The ISSO's Electronic Lists: A Summary


    The ISSO has three different electronic mailing lists, each with a distinctly different purpose. ISSO-NEWS-L is required all currently registered international students. The ISSO uses this list to send students important immigration-related updates and reminders, as well as our monthly electronic newsletter. Students are automatically added (or removed) from the list each academic year, and only ISSO list administrators may post announcements. If you are a currently registered international student and think you are not receiving list postings, please contact isso@cornell.edu to request that we add you.

    iPrograms-L Join this e-list if you are interested in receiving announcements specifically about ISSO trips, programs, and non-immigration services. This list has open membership (meaning anyone is welcome to join), but only ISSO list administrators may post announcements.

    International-L This list has been established by the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) to facilitate communication and camaraderie within the international community at Cornell. Cornell's international community is comprised of international students and visiting academic staff (past, present & future,) their family members, and other members of the Cornell and Ithaca community who share an interest in international & cultural affairs.

    You may use this list to post announcements of upcoming events, find information, meet new friends, or discuss current events and issues of local or global concern. Anyone is welcome to join this list, and your opinions are welcome, but please be respectful of others. The ISSO reserves the right to remove members who post messages that are offensive, obscene, or personally attack a list member. Also keep in mind that replies to this list will go to all members of the list, so if you wish to respond privately to a message, please check your "TO" line before sending your reply.

    For information about joining iPrograms-L or International-L, visit http://www.isso.cornell.edu/about/interl.php.



    Cornell International Host Program


    Mission

    The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) is committed to providing a broad range of support services to its students and scholars who have come to Cornell to study, teach or conduct research. Amongst the many resources that ISSO offers, the International Host Program matches students and scholars with local alumni and other community members who are committed to providing cultural, educational and social support. This program is intended to enhance the lives of all participants who will share experiences, learn new skill sets, and build lifelong relationships. Popular activities may include sharing holiday dinners, sight-seeing, picnicking, shopping and including the student in family celebrations or events.

    Matching Process

    International students and scholars and their host families may request to participate in the program at any time during their tenure at Cornell University. Participants are then matched with a volunteer host from the local community. Matches may not be made immediately. Once a match has been made, the participant and host will both receive information about their match. The host is expected to make the first contact with the international participant.

    The Role of the Host

    Hosts are expected to be a resource for international participants who are seeking additional support as they adapt to a new environment. Support may include assisting with questions about American culture and the Ithaca community or simply providing friendship and a sense of belonging to a newcomer. Hosts are encouraged to meet with their participants at least once per semester and be communicative by phone or email. Hosts are NOT expected to provide housing for participants.

    After the initial match is made, hosts and participants are responsible for developing and maintaining their relationships. Time commitment and level of involvement will vary in each relationship based on the needs of participants. The ISSO will periodically offer programming and events for hosts and participants to attend.

    How to Participate:

    If you are interested in being either a host or a participant, please submit your request online. The information that you enter there will be sent to the alumni affairs office and the ISSO. You will be matched with a host or participant. You will receive an email regarding the program within a few weeks.



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


    Each Thursday, from 2:30-4:30 PM, counselor Carrie Cragun from Gannett Health Services 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 him 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.



    Community News, Announcements & Information



    Influenza Self Care Kit: A Message from Gannett Health Services

    Regardless of where you were living before coming to Ithaca, you no doubt have heard a good deal about the new H1N1 “swine” flu virus that was declared a “pandemic flu” in June, 2009. You may even know someone who has had the flu over the last few months.

    At Cornell, we usually experience an outbreak of seasonal flu just before or after winter break (December-January) which lasts for a few weeks. However, this year our flu season could arrive earlier than expected and could be worse with both seasonal flu and H1N1 viruses circulating.

    Recently Cornell students were sent an email discussing the H1N1 influenza and things you can do to protect yourself from respiratory illnesses such as the flu. In addition to practicing good hygiene (i.e. frequent hand washing, cover your nose/mouth when you cough/sneeze, etc.), now also is a great time to pull together items you might need if you develop the flu or another flu-like illness.

    Here is a list of supplies and medicines you could add to your self-care kit:

    • Nonprescription drugs:
    • To bring down fever and ease body aches (acetaminophen, not aspirin)
    • To reduce cough (throat lozenges or cough syrup)
    • To clear a stuffy nose (a decongestant and tissues).
    • Digital Thermometer to monitor your temperature (The Gannett Pharmacy is selling them at a reduced price-- $3.50-- until Sept. 15).
    • A backup supply of tissues and alcohol-based hand sanitizer to keep your hands clean.
    • Face masks in case you must leave your recovery space (for medical care, etc.) or if you are in close contact with other individuals in your living situation.

    Other things to stock up on include:

    • Fluids to prevent or treat dehydration (Consider electrolyte drinks such as Pedialyte or Gatorade).
    • Comfort foods like soup, crackers, tea, canned beverages such as soda or juices, peanut butter, protein bars, and other nonperishable foods.
    • Extra toilet paper (and diapers for infants) in case of gastrointestinal illness.

    Talk with roommates and/or family members about other supplies you may need to care for them in your living area. To learn more about “you and the flu” and campus prevention efforts visit Gannett's website or call the Cornell Flu-Line at 255-0101.

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



    Protect your Personal Property with Renter's Insurance!

    Pause a moment and think about what you might lose in the case of a fire or burst water pipe in your apartment...

    Replacing your laptop, CD player, iPod, books, clothing, furniture, and other belongings would be costly and stressful, right?

    Accidents DO happen, and each year students without insurance have had to pay out of pocket to replace valuable items, while those with insurance have benefited from their coverage.

    Most landlords' insurance policies do not cover the personal property of renters in the case of fire, water, or smoke damage, and every year, some Cornell students caught without renter's insurance have had to manage the cost of replacing lost or damaged property on their own. The ISSO therefore strongly recommends that you consider purchasing personal property insurance, also known as "renter's insurance".

    Renter's insurance is often available for a low annual cost ($50-250, depending on amount of coverage), providing coverage in the case of loss due to damage or even theft. Please note that most policies only cover an individual renter, so if you have roommates, they should buy their own policies.

    For more information on renter's insurance, please search the web. While the ISSO cannot recommend a particular insurance company, we can provide links to some of the major insurance companies:

    For General information about personal property insurance, and to compare rates and policies, visit personalinsure.about.com/cs/renters.



    Phishing and Identity Theft

    Adapted from information provided by CIT.

    How phishing works:
    In a common scenario, phishers will send mass emails. The emails appear to come from a legitimate company, and often try to evoke an emotional response to a phony crisis. Usually a request for sensitive information is made, sometimes directing the recipient to a spoofed Web page. The Web page, like the email, appears authentic, and in some instances its URL has been masked so the Web address even looks real. Because the email and its corresponding Web page seem bona fide, the phishers hope at least a fraction of recipients are fooled into submitting their data.

    Phishers are also beginning to use viruses to do their dirty work. These viruses monitor your Internet activities, and will spring into action when you visit a particular site, either diverting you to an impostor site or capturing your keystrokes. Without virus protection you may have no idea malicious code resides your hard drive.

    How to avoid phishing scams:
    You don't need to become an expert to protect yourself. Caution and common sense will reduce your likelihood of becoming a phishing victim.

    • Be wary of email asking for confidential information­especially of a financial nature. If you receive this kind of request, call to confirm the sender's identity and the validity of their request.
    • Don't be pressured into divulging information. Phishers use scare tactics, employing urgent language to pressure you into submitting confidential data. They may threaten to disable an account or delay services until you update certain information. Contact the merchant who sent the email to confirm its authenticity.
    • Watch out for generic-looking requests for information. Fraudulent emails are rarely personalized. Emails from your bank or ISP should directly address you or your account­confirm the authenticity of any suspicious request before responding.
    • If a suspicious email contains a URL, don't click on it. Instead, navigate to the Web site by typing the URL directly into the address bar of your browser.
    • Never submit confidential information via forms embedded within email messages. Instead, communicate that information over the phone or through a secure Web site.
    • When submitting confidential information over the Internet, verify the site is secure. Just because the site's address begins with https doesn't necessarily mean the site is secure. Phishers may use URL masking techniques to mimic the secure address of an authentic company. Before submitting your information, confirm the URL's authenticity by clicking on your browser's "locked" symbol.
    • Monitor your online accounts. Make sure all transactions are valid. If they aren't, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.
    • Keep your browser and operating system up to date. Check regularly for patches and upgrades.
    • Lock down your computer with protection tools. Norton Internet Security reduces your exposure to spam-based phishing scams and protects against viruses and other blended threats.

    Conclusion:
    Try to stay abreast of new phishing tactics and strategies and keep your security components up to date. If you are uncertain about the legitimacy of an e-mail you receive, visit http://www.microsoft.com/protect/yourself/phishing/identify.mspx or http://www.snopes.com. Learn to recognize the signs of a fraudulent e-mail, hoaxes and scams! Also learn more about protecting yourself against identity theft at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/.



    2-1-1 Tompkins: Community Services Information

    When You Need Help...Finding Help !!!!!!
    you just need to remember to dial 2-1-1

    If you are looking for community services information , 2-1-1 can help you.

    2-1-1 provides area residents with information on finding health care, housing services, legal assistance, food resources, employment, consumer information, transportation, day care, services for seniors, programs for people with disabilities, mental health services, addiction treatment and other health and human services.

    You can receive information on more than 650 local, regional and national not-for-profit and government organizations that provide services in Tompkins County and the region.

    Interpreter Services are available for callers who do not speak English.

    2-1-1 Tompkins is FREE and CONFIDENTIAL.

    You can call any time during the day and night, weekends and holidays.

    You can also contact us at 1-877-211-8667 (TOMP) or search our online services directory at www.211tompkins.org.

    Or if is easier for you, you can also CHAT with one of our specialists, from Monday to Friday 8:30 - 5:00 PM.

    For more information, contact: Fran Spadafora Manzella, 2-1-1 Call Center Manager at 273-3010, ext 242 or fmanzella@hsctc.org.



    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.