As the Spring 2026 semester comes to a close, Texas Global’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is reflecting on a season of connection, support, and community. Through programs designed to foster belonging, encourage student success, and help international Longhorns navigate life at UT Austin, ISSS has sought to create meaningful opportunities for students to engage on campus and beyond.
From welcoming mornings in the Global Lounge to professional development workshops, financial wellness sessions, and spirited game-day gatherings, Spring 2026 witnessed the many ways international students continue to build community and thrive on the Forty Acres.
Starting Strong: First Fridays Coffee Break with ISSS
This spring, ISSS launched a new monthly tradition: First Fridays Coffee Break with ISSS. Held on the first Friday morning of each month, the program invited students to visit the Global Lounge for iced coffee, bagels, and a relaxed space to recharge before the day began. Students connected with friends, met classmates, and enjoyed a welcoming environment in the heart of Texas Global.
The event also coincided with ISSS Express Advising hours, allowing students to conveniently access support for quick immigration and advising questions while enjoying the morning gathering. By combining community-building with student services, First Fridays Coffee Break quickly became a popular way to begin each month.
Sharing Traditions Through Sports
Spring also offered students several opportunities to experience U.S. sports culture and Longhorn traditions. ISSS hosted both a basketball and a Super Bowl watch party, where students gathered to enjoy snacks, learn more about popular U.S. sports, and cheer alongside friends from around the world.
For many students, these events provided a fun introduction to game-day customs and traditions. For others, they offered a chance to share their own sports experiences and connect through friendly competition.
Students also attended Texas Longhorns basketball and baseball games in person, experiencing the excitement of campus athletics firsthand. From cheering in the stands to joining in the Longhorn spirit, these outings created memorable moments and deeper connections to campus life.
Supporting Financial Wellness and Tax Season Success
ISSS continued its partnership with University Federal Credit Union (UFCU) this semester with another series of Financial Wellness Lunches. These sessions provided students with practical information about budgeting, banking, credit, and managing finances in the United States. Programs like these help students build confidence in navigating everyday financial systems while studying abroad.
Spring also marked tax season, which can present additional questions for international students. ISSS supported students by sharing tax-specific guidance, resources, and information to help them better understand filing responsibilities and available support options.
Through these efforts, ISSS demonstrated its ongoing commitment to helping students succeed both in and out of the classroom.
Preparing for Graduate and Professional School
This semester, ISSS also offered graduate and professional school exam preparation sessions in partnership with Strive Grad Prep Academy and the Sanger Learning Center. These workshops introduced students to common admissions exams such as the GRE, LSAT, and MCAT, while providing strategies for preparation, timelines, and next steps in the graduate or professional school application process.
For students considering future academic opportunities, the sessions provided valuable insight and practical tools to help them plan with confidence.
Celebrating Friendship
One of the semester’s most creative community events was our Palentine’s Bracelet and Keychain Making. “Palentine’s” combines the words “pal” and “Valentine’s” to celebrate friendship, appreciation, and community. Students gathered to create bracelets and keychains while enjoying conversation, laughter, and time together in a welcoming environment.
The event highlighted the importance of friendship and connection, reminding students that meaningful community can be built through simple shared experiences.
Looking Ahead
Throughout Spring 2026, ISSS continued to create programs that support international student success, foster belonging, and celebrate the global community at UT Austin. As the semester concludes, Texas Global is proud to reflect on the friendships formed, milestones reached, and experiences shared.
ISSS looks forward to welcoming students back for future programs that help international Longhorns connect, grow, and make the most of their time on the Forty Acres.
This blog post was contributed by Sarah Chiu, program coordinator on the Intercultural Programs and Initiatives team at ISSS.
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