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International
Students
 

International Faculty
& Visiting Scholars
 

Study Abroad
& National Student
Exchange

Management
Development
International (MDI)

International
Linkages
 

About
Our
Office

Your International Student Advisors

Betsy Drillon for F-1 Visa Students

Stephanie Gonzalez for J-1 Visa Students

Sarah Jome for H-1B and other visa types

You may schedule an advising appointment by calling (309) 438-5276 or emailing one of the advisors above.

ISU's International Student Advisors can help you with a wide variety of Immigration, social, academic and cultural matters.

You've Just Graduated, Now What?

Congratulations on completing your studies! Now that you have graduated, there are some things you should do before returning to your home country. Several of these include:

• Closing your local bank accounts
• Returning library books
• Paying university and other bills
• Getting your graduation certificate and copies of your ISU transcript
• Saying goodbye to friends and professors, and getting email addresses and phone numbers so you can keep in touch
• Packing and selling your belongings. If you wish to donate items that you think other international students could use (pots and pans, bedding, lamps, etc.), please contact the International Studies Office (438-5276).

 

Prepare for Re-entry Culture Shock:

• You may be surprised to learn that just as you experienced culture shock when you first came to the United States, you may also experience culture shock when you go back home! This is actually very common among those who have lived abroad for a considerable time. During your time here, you may have acquired different attitudes, behaviors and skills. Your family and friends may notice that you have changed, and at first, you might feel like you don't "fit" in your home culture and country. Rest assured that you will just need time to adjust to people, systems, and customs again.
• Here are a few tips to help yourself adapt to life at home:
  • Try to meet people in your country who have studied abroad, too. They may have experienced, or may be experiencing re-entry shock themselves and you can help each other. It will help you to have friends who understand what you are going through.
  • Keep in touch with friends whom you have met here. They will be a good source of encouragement and support.
  • Do things that you enjoy (for example, playing tennis, listening to music, praying, etc.).
  • Contact your old international advisor at ISU! We enjoy hearing from former students and may be able to offer a bit of advice, too!
  • Join the International House Alumni Group. This is a great way for you to keep in touch with friends and to learn about reunion events at ISU. For more information, please contact Sarah Jome at sjjome@ilstu.edu.