Studying abroad for higher education can be exciting and overwhelming. This is especially true for Indian students. They face a different culture and education system. The Indian Student Association (ISA) at George Mason University helps Indian students adapt to their new environment. This blog will discuss how the ISA at GMU can help you succeed on your journey overseas.
Pre-arrival and Arrival Support
Answering Questions
Before you come to George Mason University, ask ISA members about college life or travel plans. One source of info is ISA. It covers the academic calendar, airport transport, and what clothes to bring.
Temporary Housing
International students fear finding a place to stay in the US. ISA could give new arrivals temporary housing until they find a place. This service removes the pressure of searching for a home. It lets students focus on adapting to a new environment.
Orientation Sessions
The International Student Association runs long orientations for freshers. They learn about the school grounds and facilities. These sessions explain everything. This includes campus navigation, library use, and local social norms. Also, at least 20 pages are needed. This is to avoid feeling unready upon starting at GMU.
Cultural Events and Celebrations
Festivals
While studying abroad, it’s important not to forget where one came from. It seems unbelievable, but celebrating Holi and Diwali is comforting. It gives people a taste of home and shows others India’s culture. These festivals remind everyone of their roots.
Cultural Activities
Besides festivals, ISA holds cultural events. They showcase traditional songs, dances, and cuisines, among others. These activities are vital for uniting Indian youth as a family while studying. Also, there is much pressure from studies and work that makes them nostalgic.
Academic and Professional Support
Workshops
ISA has academic and career success-themed workshops. These workshops discuss resume writing, interview prep, and career planning. These workshops equip students with knowledge for school and future jobs. This makes them more competitive.
Networking
Members are offered networking opportunities by joining ISA. Job advice can be acquired by talking to students, alumni, and professionals. This acts as a bridge between the student population and the public sphere.
Social Integration
Events And Activities
ISA organizes many social events, like movie nights and sports games. Through such activities, young people find friends who may help them with their studies. Research has shown that going through loneliness in college can lead to depression and anxiety disorders.
Exclusive Resources
Newsletters
ISA members receive regular newsletters from this organization. They contain info on events, resources, and important announcements. All members should know this. They stay updated on issues, including the association’s operations, through this group. It avoids omissions.
Connections
ISA helps students connect over shared interests. This can create support systems. Sometimes, it is about business links. Other times, it is about students’ cultural interests. So, it must cover such gaps. At times, they encounter various schools for exchange programs.
The Indian Students Association (ISA) at George Mason University is for Indian students. It helps them make peace with being away from home. It also provides all possible forms of help to them. ISA meets many needs of Indian scholars. It provides pre-arrival help, cultural events, academic workshops, and social gatherings. Being part of this community will make your time at GMU satisfying and fulfilling.
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FAQs:
What is the Indian Students Association (ISA) at GMU?
It’s a student-run group at George Mason University. It’s called the Indian Student Association (ISA). It brings together people from India through culture, academics, and social activities.
What type of support does ISA give to new students before they come to GMU?
ISA answers questions about college life, travel, and other issues. They help new students to America. They provide temporary housing and orientation sessions.
Does ISA celebrate any Indian festivals?
Yes, ISA observes some major Hindu festivals in India, like Diwali and Holi. They help members connect with their culture while living abroad.
What kind of academic services does ISA offer?
The ISA-Indian Students Association runs career social rings, resume clinics, and interview workshops. Also, young alumni seeking jobs may find links through contacts in the alumni associations of the above organizations.
How does ISA contribute to its members’ social integration?
The organization usually hosts movie nights and sports games for students. These events help attendees connect with other students.
Do their resources only cater to ISA members?
ISA members receive periodicals. They update members on events and the organization. They also help members connect with others who share their interests.
Can ISA help me find a house permanently?
ISA sends out notices that contain housing options for students; most of the time, these are both permanent or temporary places.
Can I join the GMU Indian Student Association?
GMU has an Indian Student’s Association (ISA). You can register, attend their events during orientation, or call our GMU contacts.
