Programs and Events
The Office of International Students and Scholars offers various cross-cultural programs and activities in which you can be involved. Don’t miss these opportunities to make your learning experience at WVU a most memorable one. The OISS is a symbol of the diversity at WVU and of the opportunity that WVU students have to expand their knowledge about the world.
Get involved! While you’re here, have some fun – tell us what activities you’re interested in as a participant or as a volunteer.
OISS Events and Community Programs
- New Student Orientation Program, held each spring and fall semester, introduces new students to the University and the community. Students receive information ranging from immigration regulations and course selection to housing advice. Student assistants lead small groups of new students at orientation and remain in contact to offer assistance and friendship throughout your stay at WVU. During orientation, you may find information on health care, insurance coverage, driver’s licensing procedures, and English language program referrals for spouses. WVU requires all international students to obtain health insurance coverage.
- Friends of International Students is one of several community programs for international students and scholars sponsored by our office. This program offers friendship, hospitality and a chance to learn about American life outside the classroom. Although this is not a housing program, American hosts invite their students and scholars at least once a month to participate in typical activities such as informal meals, holiday celebrations, sports events and short trips.
- Women Across Cultures is open to spouses of students, scholars and faculty as well as community members who share a common interest in learning about other cultures. The group meets every week during the academic year to socialize, visit places around the Morgantown area and practice English. Transportation, parking and babysitting may be available to participants.
- Family Programs. In cooperation with the President’s Office for Social Justice, OISS also organizes trips and activities for families several times a semester. For current information, contact liz.finklea@mail.wvu.edu
- International Student Organization – Social club for international students and all students interested in international affairs. The ISO holds regular meetings during the academic year. Check the website for more information.
- The International Dinner is an annual event organized by the International Student Organization. The community is invited to enjoy the cuisine and performances from different parts of the world. This event is held in early Spring.
- The International Cultural Education Program has developed over the years through the requests of public schools, academic departments and community organizations for speakers from different countries. Through this program, you will have a unique opportunity to share information about your culture, as well as personal experiences, with local children.
- The Mentoring Program provides an opportunity for new international students to learn more about American culture and improve their English and to contact WVU alumni for career coaching.
- The International Tea is a monthly event, sponsored by various campus and community organizations in the Morgantown area, that provides a special opportunity for faculty, staff, and local residents to meet people from other cultures. These teas are held in the lounge of E. Moore Hall, usually on the third Thursday of each month. The teas are free and open to the public. If you or your student organization would like to sponsor a tea, please contact us at oiss.mail.wvu.edu.
- The International Festival is an all-day event held in the early Fall for the entire community. It is a great opportunity for you to be an ambassador of your own country. Students have cultural displays and items/food for sale, there is entertainment throughout the day, and the festival is visited by hundreds of public school children. It is one of our best attended events.
WVU Cross-cultural Organizations
There are many other cultural and social organizations on campus. This link lists most of them.
