USI » International Programs and Services

Programs and Services for International Students

The IPS Office provides information and assistance with:
• Immigration policies and procedures
• Academic concerns international students photo
• Personal problems
• Financial emergencies
• Professional concerns
• Orientation and adjustment
• Reentry issues
• Culture shock
• Employment
• Friendship Partners Program
• International Outreach Program
• Conversation Partners Program

Programs for the entire international community are designed to enhance each student's academic experience and to help us all learn more about each other and the world in which we live.

Ongoing programs
International Connections, our International Orientation Program, is designed to assist new international students in their initial adjustment to the campus and the Evansville area. Offered prior to the beginning of each term, orientation provides an opportunity for international students to get settled into their new surroundings, to plan their academic program and register for courses, to meet other internationals and American students and to become more familiar with the surrounding community.

Friendship Partners Program provides a cultural link between international students and American families in the Evansville community. We hope that this type of interaction will be beneficial to the students and families alike. Casual social occasions (dinner, sports activities, holiday visits, etc.) are perfect times to get together with each other, for friendship and relaxation. (Please note: this is not a homestay program.)

The International Outreach Program, coordinated by the IPS Office, provides international students with the opportunity to share their culture and language with American community groups, school children and area business persons.

Small World is a program that matches American and international students to interact one on one. Participants may sign up to be either Conversation Partners or Peer Assistants. Conversation Partners will meet in order to practice English in a natural and relaxed environment. Peer Assistants simply act as friends to one another helping out with simple things like shopping or learning to use the bus. This program is a bridge between cultures, and often, long lasting friendships develop. Applications may be picked up in the International Programs and Services Office.

International Programs. Many programs, such as the International Week festivities and other events are sponsored in cooperation with the International Club and other campus organizations. These events are publicized in the monthly IPS newsletter, which is distributed to all international students at USI.

Global Community Programs. Global Community’s weekly programs provide students with a diverse view of different countries, cultures and customs. Programs include country, culture and activity nights, along with international fun nights, when residents of the Global Community floor are given the chance to plan and organize a program of their choosing for everyone to enjoy. The majority of these programs are open to the entire USI community. Those interested in presenting a program for the Global Community should contact the Office of International Programs and Services Office.

The Global Community Theme Floor is an opportunity for American freshmen and international students who are interested in living in an international living/learning environment. Residents can learn more about the world through the exploration of cultures and global issues by interacting with one another on a daily basis. The Global Community allows friendships to develop along with respect and appreciation for the world at large, while celebrating our colorful diversity. The Global Community is sponsored by the Office of International Programs and Services in cooperation with the Office of Residence Life. Please visit the Global Community Floor.

The International Club
Any student at the University of Southern Indiana can be a member of the International Club for a membership fee of $20 for the first semester, $15 for the second, or $30 per year. The club sponsors trips, dinners, outings, international programs and other interesting and fun activities.

8600 University Boulevard - Evansville, IN 47712-3596 - 812/464-8600

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