Valentine’s Day, celebrated each year on February 14, is a widely recognized holiday in the United States. While it is often associated with romantic relationships, Valentine’s Day has grown to encompass many ways to express care, appreciation, and friendship. For international students who may be experiencing this holiday for the… read more
Culture & Community
Welcoming New Students to the Forty Acres: Spring 2026 Orientation
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) was pleased to welcome new international students to campus during the Spring 2026 New International Student Orientation, held January 6-9. Throughout the week, students learned about life at UT Austin, connected with campus and community resources, and began building community while exploring Austin. A… read more
Celebrating Global Connection in 2025
As the fall semester comes to a close, the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) team at The University of Texas at Austin is reflecting on a vibrant season filled with learning, laughter, and connection. This semester, our international students took part in a range of programs designed not only… read more
Holiday Light Displays in Austin, Texas
As the holidays approach, Austin glows brighter than ever. From spectacular drive-through light parks to neighborhood gems, there’s no shortage of magical spots to soak in some festive cheer. Here are some of the must-see holiday light displays in and around Austin this season. Municipal Light Displays Zilker Trail of… read more
Your Guide to Thanksgiving: Meaning, Traditions, and Local Ways to Join In
Each November, people across the United States gather to celebrate Thanksgiving — a holiday centered around gratitude, food, and community. Observed on the fourth Thursday of November, it marks one of the most cherished American traditions and signals the beginning of the winter holiday season. A Brief History Thanksgiving’s origins… read more
Your Voice Matters: Share Your International Student Experience
The survey closes December 15. Take 15 minutes to help shape the future for students like you! Remember your first day on campus? Maybe you felt excited, nervous, lost, or all three at once. Your journey as an international student at UT Austin is unlike anyone else’s, and we want… read more
International Education Week: Connecting the Forty Acres to the World
During the week of November 17-21, 2025, The University of Texas at Austin will join universities around the country in celebrating International Education Week (IEW), a nationally recognized initiative highlighting the benefits of international education and exchange. At UT Austin, Texas Global leads this campuswide celebration with support from departments… read more
Wellness Fridays: Exploring Pilates with UT RecSports
On October 17, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) partnered with UT Austin’s RecSports to host a special Wellness Fridays event: an introductory mat Pilates class led by UT senior Tara. The session offered international students a chance to try something new, move their bodies, and learn more about a… read more
Exploring Art Together: Museum Visits with International Students
When I joined ISSS’ Intercultural Programs and Initiatives team in May, I was excited to take on a project that aligned with my interests. I earned my master’s in art education from UT Austin in 2020, where I spent much of my time exploring the University’s incredible arts resources. Over… read more
Halloween and Día de los Muertos: Fall Traditions in Austin
As October turns into November, Austin comes alive with two colorful and meaningful traditions: Halloween and Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Although these holidays share the same season, they stem from very different cultural backgrounds and are celebrated in unique ways. For international students, faculty, and scholars… read more