If this is your first summer in the United States, you may notice celebrations taking place across Austin and throughout the country on July 4. Often called the Fourth of July or Independence Day, this U.S. holiday is recognized with fireworks, community events, outdoor gatherings, and traditions that bring people… read more
Culture & Community
Why International Students Should Attend International Orientation
Starting at a new university in a new country comes with excitement, opportunity, and plenty of questions. International Orientation, taking place August 14-20 for Fall Semester 2026, is designed to help incoming international students begin their time at The University of Texas at Austin with the information, connections, and support they need… read more
Celebrating Our International Graduates
As Spring 2026 graduates of The University of Texas at Austin prepared to celebrate commencement, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) welcomed students and their loved ones to the Graduating International Student Reception. Held in partnership with Global Initiatives and Alumni Relations, the reception brought together graduating international Longhorns, family… read more
Apply to Become an International Orientation Volunteer
Do you remember your first days at The University of Texas at Austin? Arriving on campus, navigating a new city, meeting new people, and learning your way around the Forty Acres can feel both exciting and overwhelming. For thousands of international students each year, International Student Orientation is one of… read more
Dazed and Confused Screening Connects International Students with Austin Culture
In spring 2026, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) partnered with Campus Events and Entertainment (E+E) and its student-led Films & Media Committee to celebrate Austin’s cultural roots with a screening of Richard Linklater’s beloved cult classic film, Dazed and Confused. Screened at the Texas Union Theater at The University of Texas at Austin, the… read more
Building Community, Confidence, and Longhorn Spirit: Spring 2026 with ISSS
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… read more
Building Connection, One Conversation at a Time: The Global LLC Experience
At The University of Texas at Austin, global engagement is not limited to the classroom. In the Global Living Learning Community (LLC), students build intercultural understanding through everyday interactions that shape their college experience in lasting ways. The Global LLC is a close-knit cohort of approximately 30 students, predominantly composed of incoming… read more
A Fresh Start: Language Circles Launch a New Format at ISSS
On the evening of March 11, students gathered in the Global Lounge for the first Language Circles event under a new format introduced by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) at Texas Global. The event marked the start of a refreshed approach to language practice that aims to create more… read more
How to Spend Spring Break in Austin
Spring break, March 16-21, brings an energizing yet relaxed atmosphere in Austin, making it a great time to explore the city at your own pace. Whether you’re staying in town, hosting visitors, or simply looking for new experiences, Austin offers festivals, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and local favorites that are… read more
Super Bowl Watch Party: Recapping a Night of Fun and Community
The ISSS Super Bowl Watch Party welcomed more than 70 students to the Global Lounge for an evening focused on connection, culture, and one of the most-watched sporting events in the United States. For some attendees, the Super Bowl was a familiar tradition, while others were experiencing it for the… read more