The Racquette

Issue date: 2/8/08 Section: College Life

The International Education & Programs Office sponsors study abroad programs for SUNY Potsdam students wishing to spend part of their academic career abroad, serves as host to international students who come to SUNY Potsdam, and provides advice and assistance to students, faculty, and staff who are interested in an international dimension to their study, teaching, or research.

There are a few new developments within the International Education & Programs (IEP) Office - the first being the International Education and Programs Office has moved! The new office space is now located on the first floor of Sisson Hall.

Along with the new offices, staffing responsibilities have changed and shifted as well. Krista LaVack, Associate Director of International Education and Programs, is now primarily responsible for assisting faculty in developing study abroad experiences, as well as facilitating faculty exchange. If students wish to participate in one of over 400 study abroad program offered through the SUNY system or participate in National Student Exchange (NSE), they should contact Bethany Parker-Goeke, Student Study Abroad and Exchanges Coordinator. International students studying at SUNY Potsdam are now being served by Jessica Thomas, International Student Services Coordinator, who is dedicated to providing advisement on students' personal, cultural, health and immigration transitions to the Potsdam community.

There is still time to apply for study abroad experiences during the summer or fall 2008 semester as most application deadlines fall mid-February through early April. Students should begin researching their study abroad opportunities by visiting www.potsdam.edu/international.

Currently enrolled international students who are completing degree requirements in May and are considering living and working in the U.S. after graduation, must apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorization BEFORE they graduate. For a current schedule of OPT workshops to learn more about the application process and OPT itself, please visit the International Student Services webpage at www.potsdam.edu/iss.

For more information about the International Education & Programs Office function and staff members, feel free to call 315.267.2507 or email international@potsdam.edu. The IEP Office is located in Sisson Hall, first floor, and the website can be found through www.potsdam.edu/student_success.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools