Message to international students
During these tension filled times, International Education Services
(IES) would like to remind students that you are always welcome at Iowa
State University (ISU). Also, the ISU administration is committed to
providing a safe and nurturing environment so you can achieve your
educational and career goals. More than ever, it is vital that you continue
to share your culture and serve as ambassadors for your country. We believe
education plays a defining role in bringing world peace.
If you experience difficulties due to the war with Iraq, we
encourage you to talk with an International Student Adviser. IES keeps
students abreast of important events through electronic letters and updates
on our website. Recently, at the request of IES, the campus and Ames Police
have visited the local mosque to assure individuals that they would be
protected in Ames. The Division of Student Affairs at ISU has a Crisis
Response Plan and a Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) to respond to
emergencies.
When traveling outside of Ames in the U.S., we advise all
internationals to carry with them their passport, original I-94, and
original DS-2019 or I-20. You should carry photocopies of these documents
when traveling even in Ames. The Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration
Services (BCIS) in Omaha, Nebraska, confirmed that internationals must have
their immigration documents with them at all times.
Should you have problems, we ask you to consider the following
suggestions.
- Visit with your major professor or academic adviser if
you experience difficulties with your
classes due to the political climate around the world.
- Have a contact list available in case of emergencies (i.e.
Dean of Students (515) 294-
1022, Student Counseling Service (515) 294-5056, Department
of Public Safety (515)
294-4428, and Ames Police Department (515) 239-5133. The
emergency number is
911.
- Stay current on information regarding travel outside the
U.S. on the IES website.
Before you travel outside the U.S., please make an
appointment with an International
Student Adviser.
- Maintain your F-1 and J-1 immigration status.
- Establish support groups in your home country
organizations and with other students.
The staff of IES wants you to successfully obtain your educational
objectives, feel welcome, and be safe in the community. Please let us know
if we can assist you. Have a good semester.
Brenda Thorbs-Weber, Ph.D.
Assistant Director
International Education Services