ISSS Media Vault

ISSS produces a variety of webinars, workshops, and videos on immigration- and integration-related topics. This page is updated regularly as new videos become available. Please note that some of the information contained in webinar and workshop recordings may have changed by the time you view them.

Follow ISSS on Social Media:

Instagram
Facebook
YouTube

We are Penn: Beyond Borders

The University of Pennsylvania is home to a vibrant global community with over 130 countries represented. Penn prides itself on the innumerable achievements and contributions of our international students, scholars, faculty and staff that make “The Red & Blue” a song for all.

🎥: Nexo Productions

Integration Events & Programs

Forerunner

A recap summary of Forerunner 2024 – a series of events to welcome new international students, including sessions in São Paulo, Brazil, Singapore, Mumbai, India, and Shanghai, China.

These events provided incoming students and their parents with opportunities to connect with Penn staff, faculty, current students, and alumni, offering insights into university resources and facilitating the building of their Penn network.

Learn more about forerunner

Penn Global Mosaic

Penn Global Mosaic 2024 built upon its successful foundation, offering incoming undergraduate students an immersive pre-orientation experience focused on global leadership and intercultural connection. Through a dynamic three-day retreat and interactive sessions, participants engaged with peers, mentors, and faculty to explore diverse perspectives and strengthen their sense of belonging in Penn’s global community.

Inaugural thoughts and reviews of the Penn Global Mosaic Pre-Orientation Program from attendees and Student Leaders in 2023.

Learn more about pgm

Adapt-To-Penn Today

Pathways to Academic Support & Resources: Unleash Your Potential at Penn

It’s time to get beyond just getting by with your academics. The Weingarten Center’s academic support resources will help you develop effective learning and productivity strategies for the spring semester.

Your Guide to Thriving at Penn as an International Student

Learn more about Penn’s Office of International Students and Scholar Services and what we do to help you successfully navigate your time at Penn and beyond. We will share important immigration reminders, how to work with ISSS, and have time for a Q&A.

Safety First: Navigating Penn with Confidence

Your well-being is our top priority! Join Penn’s Department of Public Safety to explore cutting-edge safety measures, campus security protocols, and essential tips to stay safe on campus.

Voices of Success: International Student Panel Shares Tips and Triumphs

Hear from your peers! Gain firsthand knowledge, insights, and practical advice from a diverse panel of current students who have successfully adapted to life at Penn.

Wellbeing Matters: Prioritize Physical and Mental Health

Join Mia Tian, International Specialist for Student Health and Counseling to learn about the services offered at Wellness at Penn, including resource, support, and treatment options of both physical and mental health that are available to you. You will also be given guidance on navigating healthcare and health insurance during your academic journey.

Immigration Sessions & Webinars

On-Campus Employment and Social Security Number (SSN)

Recorded September 30, 2024

This webinar will provides an overview of the requirements for on-campus employment at Penn and the process for obtaining a Social Security Number (SSN).

Optional Practical Training OPT for F 1 Students

Recorded October 2, 2024

In this recorded webinar session, the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) team provides a comprehensive overview of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) application process for F-1 students. OPT is a form of work authorization available both before and after graduation.The session covers key topics such as eligibility requirements, application timelines, and types of employment permitted under OPT. The ISSS team also answers participant questions in real-time, providing valuable insights and clarifications.

Please note: Prior knowledge of OPT is recommended for viewers. For more information, visit the ISSS OPT page: https://global.upenn.edu/isss/opt

Overview of Hiring H 1B Employees

Recorded October 7, 2024

In this recorded webinar, participants gained a thorough understanding of the H-1B Specialty Occupation Worker status, focusing on its requirements and internal procedures. The session provided detailed insights into the H-1B visa process, including eligibility criteria, the application workflow, and necessary documentation. Additionally, the webinar discussed the internal steps organizations must take when sponsoring an employee, emphasizing compliance with U.S. immigration laws and best practices. This recording serves as a valuable resource for both employers and employees looking to navigate the complexities of the H-1B visa process.

Overview of J 1 Exchange Visitor

Recorded October 9, 2024

In this recorded webinar, participants received an in-depth overview of the various J-1 Exchange Visitor categories available at Penn, including research scholars and visiting professors. The session covered the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for each category, as well as the procedures for hosting international scholars under the J-1 program. Attendees also learned about the responsibilities of both the hosting institution and the J-1 visitors, ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration laws. This recording is a valuable resource for departments and individuals involved in bringing international scholars to Penn through the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program.

F-1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Recorded October 11, 2024

In this recorded webinar, participants received an in-depth overview of the various J-1 Exchange Visitor categories available at Penn, including research scholars and visiting professors. The session covered the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for each category, as well as the procedures for hosting international scholars under the J-1 program. Attendees also learned about the responsibilities of both the hosting institution and the J-1 visitors, ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration laws. This recording is a valuable resource for departments and individuals involved in bringing international scholars to Penn through the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program.

Immigration Alternatives at Penn Beyond J and H Status

Recorded October 21, 2024

This workshop offered a thorough overview of the H-1B Specialty Occupation Worker status, while also discussing various other U.S. employment-based visa options and pathways to permanent residency. The session began by outlining the H-1B visa, explaining the eligibility requirements, application process, and internal procedures. This provided attendees with a solid understanding of how to navigate the H-1B process for employment in the U.S.In addition to the H-1B, the workshop covered several other visa categories. It detailed Optional Practical Training (OPT), a work authorization that allows F-1 international students to gain practical experience related to their field of study, as well as the STEM OPT extension, which provides an additional 24 months of work authorization for students in qualifying STEM fields. The TN visa, available to Canadian and Mexican citizens under the USMCA, was also discussed, along with the E-3 visa, a special category for Australian nationals in specialty occupations.The workshop also explored temporary visa options, including the B-1/B-2 visitor visa for business and tourism, and the WB/WT visa waiver for citizens of specific countries, allowing short-term visits for business or pleasure without a visa. Additionally, it examined the O-1 visa, designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, education, business, or the arts.Lastly, the session touched on pathways to permanent residency (Green Card), offering insights into how individuals can transition from temporary work visas to permanent status in the U.S. Whether attendees were interested in short-term employment, extended work opportunities, or permanent residency, this workshop provided essential information to help them navigate their options. The recording of this session is now available for those looking to explore these visa categories further.