Building Trust and Visibility in Student Services for International Student Success
Tuesday March 3rd, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (EST)
With Jodie Tadlock & Elizabeth Bowers, Indiana University Bloomington
International students often navigate unfamiliar academic, cultural, and institutional landscapes, yet many do not view student services professionals as primary sources of expertise. This session addresses that disconnect by equipping professionals with the tools to build trust, communicate value, and foster meaningful engagement.
The session will introduce practical strategies for building visibility and credibility. Attendees will discuss actionable plans for outreach efforts that position student services professionals as trusted guides. By the end of the session, participants will be empowered to foster stronger connections with international students and enhance their access to holistic support.
Brave Spaces: Designing Safe Storytelling Channels for International Students
Thursday March 5th, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (EST)
With Hailey Autumn Hesseltine, Ordu University
International students often navigate academic, cultural, and emotional transitions in isolation—caught between systems that don’t always reflect their lived realities. Yet their stories hold immense potential not only for individual healing, but also for reshaping the way institutions support their journeys.
This session explores how storytelling can serve as both a tool for resilience and a method for building community, advocacy, and belonging among international students. We will explore strategies for designing safe, intentional storytelling spaces and examine ethical considerations around consent, representation, and vulnerability.
This session will cover post-study work and long-term residence options in Europe. With a special focus on Germany and selected other EU countries, the speakers will explain the key visa and employment pathways available after graduation. The session will also cover how international graduates can build a future in Europe, including job mobility, family reunification, and pathways to permanent residence and citizenship. Whether you’re planning your next step after graduation or thinking long-term, this webinar will help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
The $100K H-1B Pathway: Landing Your Role in BigTech
Wednesday March 18th, 2026 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm (EST)
With Leland
Breaking into Big Tech on an H-1B can feel overwhelming, but the right strategy can dramatically increase your odds. In this session, we’ll break down how candidates successfully land six-figure roles at top tech companies while navigating visa considerations, recruiting timelines, and employer sponsorship realities.
You’ll learn how to position your skills for high-impact roles, target companies and teams that regularly sponsor, and avoid common mistakes that limit international candidates’ opportunities.
Storytelling Across Cultures: Building Authentic Professional Narratives
Tuesday March 24th, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm (EST)
With Nourine Bhimani, New York University
Stand out by telling your story your way. This workshop helps students turn their unique experiences, values, and cross-cultural perspective into authentic, memorable narratives that resonate with employers. Learn how to connect your personal “why” to professional impact—perfect for interviews, networking, and building a compelling personal brand.
Siskind Susser Q&A: International students in a Time of Change
Tuesday March 31st, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (EST)
With Suskind Susser
Join Adam Cohen, immigration attorney with Siskind Susser and author of The Academic Immigration Handbook, 4th edition, for an open Q&A session addressing timely student immigration developments and resulting concerns and considerations.
Join career experts, international alumni, and employers on April 2nd for a dynamic virtual event designed to empower international student careers in the US. Explore career tips, job search techniques, visa pathways, work authorizations, industry trends, and more.
U.S. Workplace Culture: A Guide for International Students and Alumni
Thursday April 9th, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm (EST)
With Starra Priestaf & Kris Romero, Northwestern University
What does it mean to be a good employee and a good communicator? Navigating US workplace communication and dynamics can be challenging for international students. This workshop equips students with the tools to thrive in the US workplace. Through self-assessments and case studies, participants will explore topics, including communication styles, leadership expectations, and decision-making processes
CPT to FTE: Building Your Career. Pipeline During Your U.S. Studies
Wednesday April 15th, 2026 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm (EST)
With Leland
Turning a CPT opportunity into a full-time role requires early planning and a clear strategy. In this session, we’ll break down how students can use internships, part-time roles, and on-campus opportunities to build a strong pipeline toward full-time employment in the US.
You’ll learn how to choose roles that maximize conversion potential, build relationships with managers and recruiters, and position your experience for return offers or future sponsorship.
CPT, OPT, and On‑Campus Employment: Staying Compliant While Gaining Experience
Tuesday April 28th, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (EST)
With Suskind Susser
This presentation breaks down the rules and opportunities around F‑1 on‑campus work, Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and Optional Practical Training (OPT) explaining eligibility, hour limits, and how to ensure your job is “integral” and "directly related" to your academic program.
Attendees will gain clear, practical guidance to use CPT, OPT, and on‑campus employment strategically to build experience, avoid status violations, and protect long‑term options like STEM OPT and future work visas.
Your Story, Your Wellbeing: Mental Health and Empowerment for International Students
Wednesday April 29th, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm (EST)
With Hailey Autumn Hesseltine, Ordu University
International students often experience academic pressure, cultural adjustment, and emotional stress at the same time, often without spaces that feel safe to talk about it.
This webinar focuses on mental health and emotional wellbeing through the lens of storytelling and self-reflection. Drawing from real experiences shared by international students, the session explores how acknowledging and naming personal challenges can support resilience, reduce isolation, and strengthen a sense of belonging.
Career Paths in Europe: Study, Research, and Work Opportunities with a Focus on Germany
Thursday May 14th, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (EST)
With Jessica Schüller
Interested in taking your career across the Atlantic? This one-hour workshop offers an overview of emerging labor market trends across Europe and dives into the various pathways for studying, researching, and working abroad—with a particular emphasis on opportunities in Germany.
You’ll gain a clearer understanding of the European job landscape, what employers look for in international candidates, and how to navigate the practical steps involved in launching your career overseas.
Beyond the GPA: How to Secure the Best Letters of Recommendation (LOR) from U.S. Professors
Wednesday May 20th, 2026 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm (EST)
With Leland
Strong letters of recommendation can significantly elevate your application, especially when they go beyond grades and rankings. In this session, we’ll break down how to build meaningful relationships with US professors, choose the right recommenders, and guide them to write letters that highlight your intellectual curiosity, initiative, and impact.
You’ll learn what admissions committees actually look for in LORs, how to prepare your recommenders effectively, and common mistakes that lead to generic or weak letters.
