Welcome Week
Presented by the International Student Services (ISS) Office, the Welcome Week for new international students is the ISS version of orientation. It occurs the week before the start of the semester, and consists of information sessions and social opportunities, leading up to a "The Welcome Orientation and Reception." All events are optional, but you are highly encouraged to participate and get the chance to gain important information and meet other international students and the ISS staff before school starts.
Coffee Socials allow new students to meet each other informally during the week. Come in for some coffee, tea and other refreshments (food!), and stay for the conversation. There is no specific program, just a relaxing time for introducing, sharing, and de-stressing.
Topical presentations or workshops provide information that may be useful for adjusting to the campus and the local community. Starting after the Coffee Socials, these sessions will continue to offer coffee, tea and refreshments.
The Welcome Orientation ("The Welcome") is a full morning or afternoon that brings all new international students together. During this time, they will be introduced to International Student Services staff, student resources, cultural and safety issues, clubs and activities, and most of all, other students.
The Welcome Reception (limited seating) follows the orientation. The day ends with a reception of food and other refreshments. Here you may meet new students like yourself and make new friends from all over the world. A limited number of tickets will be available to get in.
- How to get a seat? You must complete Visa Clearance (including watching the video, taking the quiz, submitting documents, and updating US address and phone number) and sign up to attend the Welcome Orientation. The first 40 students to complete everything will be contacted by the ISS Office to confirm their seat and to pick up their ticket. More information about the reception will be communicated at that time.
- Update 8/15 - Due to circumstances beyond our control, reception information and confirmation will be obtained at the Welcome Orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Fall 2023 (August 15-17)
NOTE: Not all sessions may be available. Check the Welcome Week Schedule for up-to-date information.
| SESSION | CATEGORY | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Social | Social | Start your morning right! Grab some coffee and meet other new international students in a relaxed atmosphere. Coffee, tea and other refreshments provided by ISS. |
| Living Local: A Newcomer's Guide to Hawai'i | Presentation | This session will provide some insight on Local culture and language unique to Hawai'i. |
| Tips for Living in Hawai'i | Presentation | Learn about where to shop, how to save money, local secrets, and many other things you should know to live in Hawai'i. |
| Building Healthy Relationships in the U.S. | Presentation | Forming relationships in the U.S. often looks different from other cultures - whether that's friendly, academic/professional, or romantic. Learn how to get a better understanding of what to expect, or where to go when you need help. |
| International Student Panel: Share Your Experiences | Panel/Discussion | Current international students will answer your questions about life in Hawaii. |
| The Welcome Orientation | Presentation | This session brings together all new international students, and provides them important information on campus resources as well as opportunities to meet each other in structured activities. RSVP required (see schedule) |
| The Welcome Reception | Social | This is the finale to the Welcome Week. End the week at this special reception for new international students. Food will be served! Limited seating. |
| Monday (8/14) | Tuesday (8/15) | Wednesday (8/16) | Thursday (8/17) | Friday (8/18) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No activities | Coffee Social 9:00 - 9:30 am QLC Room 412 | Coffee Social 9:00 - 9:30 am QLC Room 412 | STATE HOLIDAY ISS Office Closed |
|
| Living Local: A Newcomer's Guide to Hawai'i 9:30 - 10:30 am QLC Room 412 | Tips for Living in Hawai'i 9:30-10:30 am QLC Room 412 | The Welcome Orientation 10:00 am ~ 12:30 pm Crawford 105 Sign up here (required) |
||
| Building Healthy Relationships in the U.S. 10:30 - 11:30 am QLC Room 412 | International Student Panel: Share Your Experiences 10:30 - 11:30 am QLC Room 412 |
|||
| Welcome Reception 1:00 ~ 2:30 pm Limited Seating! How to get a seat? Read about the Welcome Reception above. |