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    • ISSO Newsletter: September 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. Welcome and Introduction
    2. Immigration News and Reminders
      Newly Arriving International Students Must Check In!
      Graduating in January? Apply EARLY for F-1 OPT!
      Visas After Graduation: H1B and more!
    3. ISSO Fall Trips and Programs
    4. The ISSO's Electronic Lists: A Summary
    5. Need Money for Books? Apply for the ISSO Book Award!
    6. Let’s Talk: CAPS off-site counseling at ISSO
    7. Community News, Announcements & Information
      Greetings & Reminders from Gannett Health Services
      Protect your Personal Property with Renter's Insurance!
      Fraud and Scams: Protect Yourself!
    8. 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 2007-08 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. First, we are both sad and proud to announce that Mary Schlarb, our previous Assistant Director for Programming Services, has left Cornell to attend the University at Buffalo’s Law School! We wish her all the best with this new challenge. We are pleased that Adriana Rovers has accepted Mary’s position and is our new Assistant Director for Programming Services. Also accepting a new position within the ISSO is Cindy Austic. Cindy has moved into our newly-created Immigration and Programming Assistant position! She will be assisting with both administrative procedures and advising. Finally, we are very happy to welcome Elizabeth Shedd, our new Receptionist and administrative assistant.

    We thought this first newsletter would also be a good opportunity to briefly 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 is married and his wife Sachiko works in the Vet College. His daughter Mina is four years old and keeps him 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 13 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, Assistant Director for 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 five 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, Adriana recently accepted new responsibilities as Assistant Director for Programming Services. Outside of the office in her spare time, she enjoys flower gardening, 1890's house restoration projects, and keeping physically active with swing dancing and rollerblading. Adriana also loves to travel. This past year, she visited family in the Netherlands where her parents were born. Next year, she hopes to visit her youngest daughter who has just arrived in Spain for an exchange program at a university in Madrid. Her three other daughters have also participated in exchange programs in Peru, France and China and these experiences have shaped their young adult lives in a very positive way.

    Mariah Sawyer, Immigration Advisor and Program Coordinator
    Mariah grew up in Ithaca and, after attending college in North Carolina and living briefly in Arizona, moved back to the area in 2000 and started working at the ISSO. She spent a month in France while in high school, and studied abroad in Italy while in college, using the opportunity to see much of Western Europe. Outside of work, Mariah enjoys creating art, listening to music, reading, watching movies with friends, and hiking with her dog. Her favorite part of the job is meeting people from all over the world and she hopes to travel more extensively some day.

    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 four 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.

    Cindy Austic, Immigration and Programming Assistant
    Cindy has been working for Cornell University and the ISSO for a little over ten years. She likes meeting (and helping) people from all over the world, so this job is interesting and rewarding for her.

    Mary Wheaton, Immigration Assistant
    Mary has worked at ISSO for 11 years and at Cornell for 41 years! At the ISSO she is responsible for the preparation of petitions for H1B1 and O visas and for the form (I140) for permanent residents. She also prepares DS2019 forms for J1 Scholars. She enjoys working at ISSO and appreciates the chance the meet people from all over the world.

    Elizabeth Shedd, Receptionist
    Elizabeth is ISSO's newest staff member, having just been hired a few months ago. 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 making chocolate for The Three Chocolatieres, watching movies or dancing. Come see her if you'd like to join a knitting circle!



    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 in January? 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 NOW if you will graduate after this Fall semester. Please read about OPT, download an application from our OPT web pages, and come to our F-1 work authorization workshop on Monday, September 10th at 12:15pm in Caldwell 250.



    Visas After Graduation Talk

    Tuesday, October 23, 2007, 7-9pm, Hollis E. Cornell Auditorium
    Presented by Carolyn Lee, 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. This information is particularly crucial at the present time, given the H-1B cap and new backlogs with employment-based green cards.



    ISSO Fall 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 iPrograms-L and International-L e-lists. Unless otherwise indicated, trip sign ups will take place on the date specified at 9:00 AM at the ISSO (B-50 Caldwell).

    October

    2 Tuesday
    Learn to Navigate Your Student Health Insurance
    4:30-6:00 PM, WSH International Lounge

    6 Saturday
    Men’s Football Game, Cornell Big Red vs. Harvard
    Come to the ISSO pre-game pizza party, Noon at the Big Red Barn!
    NOTE: This is a NEW DATE for this event!

    6-8 Saturday-Monday
    Fall Break Trip to New York City
    THIS TRIP IS ALREADY FULL!

    8 Monday
    Postcards to Home
    Time TBA, the Tatkon Center, Balch Hall
    Stop by the Tatkon Center to write a postcard home. We’ll cover the postage!

    25 Thursday
    Special Halloween Coffee Hour!
    3:30-5:30 PM, Big Red Barn



    November

    15 Thursday
    International Undergraduate Engineering Students: Obtaining a Co-op Position
    4:45 PM, location TBA
    For undergraduate Engineering students interested in the Engineering Co-op Program.

    22 Thursday
    Annual Traditional American Thanksgiving Feast
    Location and ticket sales information TBA
    organized by Campus Life and the ISSO

    28 Wednesday
    Driving in Winter and Applying for a New York State Driver’s License
    4:30 PM, room G85 in Myron Taylor Hall



    Plus every Thursday while classes are in session, 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!



    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.



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

    Each semester, the ISSO awards two Book Awards of $500 each to one international undergraduate student and one international graduate student 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. Selection criteria include: contribution to international life at Cornell, personal and academic achievement, and financial need.

    EXTENDED DEADLINE: 4:30 pm, Monday, October 8, 2007
    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).



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


    Each Thursday from 2:30-4:30 PM counselor Tow Yee Yau, Ph.D. 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


    Greetings & Reminders from Gannett Health Services

    Dear Students,

    During orientation, I enjoyed the opportunity to meet many of the new International students and their families, and extend my personal greetings. Each month, I hope to continue this conversation by submitting a short article on health news through the ISSO’s monthly newsletter and web site.

    As the International Student Health Advocate, I’m also interested in learning more about your health interests and needs so that Gannett can serve you better. Please feel free to stop by my office in Health Promotion on level 3 of Gannett or email me at jit1@cornell if you have questions, need assistance or wish to offer feedback on a visit. Gannett staff members understand that seeking medical care can be a complex process, particularly in a new country where the philosophy and approach to health care may be quite different from what you are accustomed to. The Gannett web site offers specific information I hope will assist you in learning more about how the US health-care system and medical insurance work. Visit us at http://www.gannett.cornell.edu/whoareyou/international/default.html.

    Throughout the year, I encourage you to email topics to me that you would like reviewed. Your questions, concerns, and suggestions will help Gannett become a better partner in your health care. You can reach me at (607) 255-4782, or jit1@cornell.edu.

    Sincerely,
    Janis Talbot
    Gannett Health Educator, International Student Advocate


    Notice: Deadline for New Students to Meet Health Requirements
    To assure quality care for you while you are at Cornell and to comply with New York State and U.S. public health and privacy laws, there are a number of health requirements that all new students must complete upon entering Cornell University. Gannett can assist students who still need to complete the Health History Form, obtain immunizations, or have a TB skin test (or chest x-ray).

    The deadline for meeting these requirements is September 15. Please be advised that any student who misses that deadline will be assessed a $100 late fee.

    If you have not fully completed your health requirements, please call Gannett TODAY at 255-4364 or 255-6951 to schedule an appointment. Because of high demand, appointments for health requirements are being made for two or three weeks from now. However, if you schedule your appointment before September 15 and keep that appointment to obtain the care you need to meet your requirements, you will not be charged the late fee.

    If you are uncertain whether you have completed your health requirements, please call Gannett at 255-4364 or 255-6951. We also plan to e-mail students who are not yet in full compliance. For further information see Gannett’s web site (search “requirements”).


    Review of Health Requirements
    New students must submit the Health History Form with important information about their health, and information that demonstrates compliance with New York State and Cornell immunization and testing requirements, including:

    1. Measles, mumps, rubella
      • MMR combination vaccine: two doses of live vaccine administered on or after the first birthday. (Cost for the combined MMR vaccine is $60 per dose.)
        • OR
      • Measles: two doses of live vaccine administered on or after the first birthday; or protective-antibody titer result; or physician-diagnosed history of disease.
      • Mumps: two doses of live vaccine administered on or after the first birthday; or protective-antibody titer result; or physician-diagnosed history of disease.
      • Rubella: one dose of live vaccine; or protective-antibody titer result (NOTE: previous clinical diagnosis of Rubella is not acceptable proof).
    2. Tetanus booster: Cornell requires proof that you have received a tetanus booster within the last ten years (cost $22-42).
    3. Tuberculin skin test (PPD, Mantoux): a TB skin test is required of all international students, regardless of previous BCG vaccination status. International students (not including students from Canada) must be tested at Gannett Health Services after arrival at Cornell. (The cost for a PPD is $15). NOTE: It is recommended that spouses/domestic partners and children of international students also be screened for TB. Spouses, domestic partners, and children over 14 may be screened at Gannett Health Center. Parents of children under 14 years of age can arrange screening by: contacting a health care provider in the community (see the Yellow Pages in your phone book); or calling the Tompkins County Health Department (274-6604) for information about TB Test Clinics in the area.
      4. Meningococcal disease and vaccination: New York State requires that all registered students receive information about Meningococcal vaccine and indicate that they have received the vaccine or choose not to receive it at this time. (The cost is $105 per dose).


    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.


    Fraud and Scams: Protect Yourself!

    Several students have received e-mail messages from an office purporting to be the Internal Revenue Service. Do not respond to these e-mails or provide any personal information. This is scam and is known as “phishing”. It is best never to click on links embedded in messages unless you are certain that the message sender is legitimate. Be very wary about ever sharing personal identification information with anyone (social security number, date of birth, bank account or credit card numbers). Most banks and government agencies will not contact you via e-mail and they will certainly not ask you to provide personal information. 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/.



    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
    Remember! We will be closing at 3:30 P.M. on Fridays, from June 2nd-August 14th!

    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.