Welcome to International Graduate Student Orientation! As you look at the schedule, you will notice that some sessions are required. Others are optional. We encourage you to attend the optional sessions to learn more about UVM and Burlington and how to make the most of your time here. We look forward to seeing you in the sessions!

Reminders for this week:

  • Most graduate programs have their own orientations in addition to International Student Orientation. Contact your department for requirements this week and next.
  • Wondering where a building is? Find it here on the campus map.
  • Not sure where to eat? Find out what's open now
  • Emergency? If you need the police, firefighters, or immediate medical attention, call 911. Otherwise, talk to an OIE staff member during the day or call UVM Police Services at +1-802-656-3473.

Top New Student Tasks

This week, make sure you:

Tuesday - August 15

New Student Check-in (Required)
9:00AM-5:00PM 
Office of International Education (OIE), Living/Learning B-101

Visit the Office of International Education (OIE) to pick up your orientation folder and get questions answered by OIE staff.

Campus Tour
1:00PM-2:30PM
Meet at the Office of International Education (OIE), Living/Learning B-101

This is a walking tour of campus – dress for the weather (and wear comfortable shoes).

Shopping Trip
2:30PM-4:30PM
Meet at the Office of International Education (OIE), Living/Learning B-101

Join other new students to get the things you need to start your life in Burlington. There will be the opportunity to set up cell phones on this trips as well - bring your immigration documents if you wish to do so.

Wednesday - August 16

Welcome Event (Required)
10:00AM-11:00AM
Aiken 102

Come ready to get to know new students, learn about UVM, and start your orientation week with lots of energy!

Your Immigration Rules (Required)
11:00AM-12:00PM
Aiken 102

Learn about the rules of F-1 and J-1 status, including enrollment requirements, work options and how to re-enter the US after traveling internationally.

Mosaic Center for Students of Color (MCSC) Tour
1:00PM-2:00PM
Meet at Office of International Education (OIE), Living/Learning B-101

This is an opportunity for international students of color to get to know the MCSC space, meet the staff, and learn more about their work. Bring your questions!

Being a Graduate Student in the USA (Required)
2:00PM-3:00PM
Aiken 102

Going to university in the US is different than going to university in other countries. Come learn about expections for graduate students at UVM and get some tips for success. Plus, think about how to get involved outside of your academics to keep a balanced life. For students with GTA appointments, we will also touch briefly on a few tips for success specific to international students.

Creemees by the Lake
3:00PM-4:30PM
Depart from Aiken 102 (after session)

A first week in Burlington is not complete without a visit to the lake. Head to the lake to enjoy a "creemee" ice cream for free with other new students. Spouses and children welcome.

Thursday - August 17

Library Tour & Graduate Writing Center
10:00AM-11:00AM
Howe Library

Tour the library and learn about how librarians and the Writing Center can help with your schoolwork, including starting your research and properly citing your sources. See resources like printing, scanning, and study spaces.

Health and Safety (Required)
11:15AM-12:00PM
Aiken 102

Learn about how to stay healthy and safe, including where to go when you're sick, how to use UVM health insurance and who to call in an emergency.

Cultural Life in the USA (Required)
2:00PM-3:30PM
Aiken 102

Let's talk about the unwritten rules of living in the US, and tips for success living away from your home country.

Orientation Closing Event
3:30PM-5:00PM
Living/Learning Fireplace Lounge

Connect socially with other international graduate students - both new and returning - the OIE will provide light refreshments. Spouses and children welcome.

Friday - August 18

OIE Advisor Drop-in Hours

1:00PM-4:00PM
Office of International Education (OIE), Living/Learning B-101

Stop by the Office of International Education for quick questions and support from our advising staff.

Next Week - August 21 and Onward

President’s Reception
Wednesday, August 23, 4:00PM-5:30PM
Sugar Maple Ballroom, Davis Center

This is a social event. Dress is casual, but you will have opportunities to meet senior UVM staff, so many students decide not to wear jeans. Family members welcome, but you should respond to the invitation from the President’s office (sent in early August) to tell us who is joining you.