New International Student Success Series (NISSS)

What is the New International Student Success Series (NISSS)?

NISSS is an extended orientation workshop series specifically designed for new international students at SIUE. Each semester, International Affairs invites new international student to attend NISSS, which consists of six workshops over six weeks. It serves as a comprehensive guide to navigating various aspects of university life, offering strategies and insights to help students succeed during their time at the university.

Who can attend NISSS sessions?

Participation in the New International Student Success Series (NISSS) is mandatory for all international First Semester Transition (FST) students at SIUE!

However, NISSS sessions are open to all new international students at SIUE. Whether you're a first-year undergraduate student, a transfer student, or a graduate student, if you're new to the university and an international student, you're encouraged to attend these sessions to make the most out of your time at SIUE.

 Topics Covered:

• Culture Shock and Homesickness: Understand the impact of culture shock and homesickness, and strategies to tackle them.
• Health & Wellness: Learn more about U.S. health insurance and ways to promote your well-being.
• The American Classroom: Gain better insight into U.S. academic culture and academic success strategies.
• Getting Involved in Campus Life: Hear from The Kimmel and current students about ways to participate in campus life.
• Succeeding Socially: Learn more about maintaining healthy relationships on and off campus.
• Employment Opportunities: Receive Information on employment options for international students, including Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

Schedule of Events:

The sessions will begin the first week of September and will continue for six weeks, with four sessions each week.

Location and Time:

• Location
  • Student Success Center (SSC), Room 0200
• Time
  • Mondays: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
  • Tuesdays: 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM & 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Thursdays: 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM