ISSS Programs

English Conversation Partners Program
We connect the University of Maryland community for authentic cultural exchange through English conversation. For ten weeks during the semester, participants meet with their fluent English speaking volunteer in one-on-one or group sessions. During conversation sessions participants practice their oral English through discussions on various topics and other activities planned by the volunteer. More information can be found at go.umd.edu/isss_ecp.

Global Spotlight Program 
Global Spotlight gives visiting international scholars at UMD the chance to give a short (~20 minute) presentation about your research to UMD students, staff, and faculty. The program is designed to give our diverse international scholar community an opportunity to practice presenting in front of non-specialist audiences their complex research. Participants receive one-on-one coaching and constructive feedback both in advance of and following their presentation.

International Coffee Hour
International Coffee Hour is a weekly event (during the Fall and Spring semesters) where students, staff, and the Maryland community can get together and socialize.

International Orientation Leaders
Learn about International Orientation Leadership program, an exclusive group of student leaders was chosen to facilitate the transition and welcome of new international students to the UMD community.

​International Scholar Orientation
Orientation for J-1 researchers, short-term scholars, professors, interns and trainees is held Thursday mornings from 10:00am - 12:00pm. Attendance at orientation is required as soon as possible after your arrival at the university. 

International Student Orientation
International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) organizes the International Student Orientation to answer questions that may arise as you make your transition to the University of Maryland.

International Student Advisory Board  (ISAB)
The ISAB at UMD is a group of international student representatives selected to serve as a sounding board for ISSS and other campus units. Members foster and maintain strong relationships with international student organizations and UMD international students to understand their lived experience and challenges. The board is solutions-oriented and seeks to empower students to develop solutions to the identified challenges of international students on our campus.

SLLC-ISSS-EA Language Partner Program
Students who are majoring in any SLLC program can meet with international students outside the classroom and practice their target language in an informal, structured way. More information is available for SLLC majors and international students who wish to participate.