As the fall semester picks up steam and we begin to hang up our Halloween decorations this month, ISSS staff have curated a list of events centered on current issues in U.S. politics and culture for our students and scholars from around the world. Attend these sessions to create global connections through meaningful dialogue as well as further understand how to navigate life in the U.S.
ISSS staff kicked off October with Race and Ethnicity in the U.S., a series of sessions organized in collaboration with the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement at UT. These participatory panels facilitated by Dr. Devin Walker and Javier Wallace aimed to help international students understand and explore the current racial climate in the U.S.
Our interactive event on elections in the U.S. will guide students through the political process and provide insight into everything that makes this election cycle so pertinent. We will also be conducting a comprehensive presentation on availing healthcare in the U.S., a significant interest during this global crisis, as well as a tax information session. Additionally, ISSS staff and Partnerships to Advance Language Study (PALS) will be hosting a few festive events coming up this fall. Learn more about these events and how to RSVP below.
Oct. 20: Unlocking Elections with Sean Theriault
U.S. presidential elections are just around the corner, and there is so much to understand! Sit down with Dr. Sean Theriault, an award-winning professor in the Department of Government, as he explains the processes of elections and provides a framework for international students to understand U.S. government structure. Event participants will:
- Get a brief overview of the U.S. political system
- Learn about elections and how they work in the U.S.
- Learn about this election season and what makes it so interesting
There will be a live Q&A segment at the end for attendees to ask election-related questions. To participate, you must register in advance.
Oct. 23: Pumpkin Carving with PALS
In addition to these ISSS-hosted events, our affiliated student organization Partnerships to Advance Language Study (PALS) is hosting a few events of their own. PALS is a group that seeks to create friendships that transcend borders through the sharing of cultures.
Let your creativity shine as you carve pumpkins with goblins, ghouls and ghosts all while making new friends from around the world. Find information about this event and others on the PALS website. Please note that registration in PALS is required to attend PALS events.
Oct. 28: Healthcare in the U.S.
Deductibles, co-pays, networks, oh my! Understanding your health insurance plan and healthcare options are integral to your time in the U.S. However, these processes can be confusing and daunting. Join us for a presentation on understanding insurance plans in the U.S., essential terminology and more.
Nov. 1: Tax Information Session
Did you know all international students and scholars present in the U.S. for any part of 2019 are required to file a U.S. tax return? Additionally, knowing the right tax status you are under and the right paperwork to follow is crucial to fulfilling your federal tax obligations correctly. Tune in to this event to learn more about the various types of forms, procedures for submission, what information to declare and more.
Nov. 17: Tasty Tuesday
Join the ISSS virtual community on Facebook and show off your culinary chops. Learn how Longhorns around the world prepare their favorite autumnal dishes in this all-day feast. Show off your Thanksgiving turkeys and other festive foods from your culture. Participate by sharing your gastronomical creations and engaging with your peers’ shared passions for food! Look for more events posted throughout the semester on the virtual community Facebook page.
