Programs & Events for International Students at UCSD
For more information about programs for international students at UC San Diego, contact iprograms@ucsd.edu.
Get Involved
ACCESS for International Students
ACCESS is a 10-week non-credit course focusing on the life and relationships of international students inside and outside the university classroom. The goal is to help international students become familiar with UCSD resources and the multiple expectations and language required in a variety of university and other social situations in the U.S.
Center for Student Involvement:
UCSD Cultural Organizations
The Center for Student Involvement offers professional advising services, student organization resources, leadership and community service programs, and information on campus-wide events.
Grants for UCSD Student Organizations
Grants are awarded quarterly to on-campus student organizations devoted to creating programs or events that promote international education and exchange. Grants range from $100-200. Apply before the end of week 4 of each quarter. Application coming soon.
I-Club
International Club (I-Club) is a student organization that welcomes and encourages ALL students-international and local to participate. Its mission is to promote cultural and civil engagement within an inviting, relaxed, and enjoyable atmosphere!
i-THRIVE at the Zone (located in Price Center Plaza)
Come to the Zone every Thursday during Winter quarter from 12-1pm and explore cultures through group discussions, activities, and presentations. This series will highlight resources on campus that support cross-cultural exchange and communication. Through cultural connection, together we can THRIVE. Free food catered by Art of Espresso. RSVP to Iris Crowe-Lerma at icrowelerma@ucsd.edu to attend a session. A minimum of 5 students is required for a workshop to take place. View the full schedule.
International Family Orientation
International students and their family members are welcome to attend a special orientation that will provide information on educational and fun activities for families to participate in during their stay in San Diego. Download the PDF flyer for more info.
Intramural sports teams
Looking for a way to interact and connect with international students at UCSD? The I-Center is sponsoring intramural sports teams every season that include at least one study abroad returnee and one international student.
International Education Week
International Education Week (IEW) is an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. Initiated in 2000 by the US Department of State and the Department of Education, the week is dedicated to enhancing international awareness across UCSD campus as well as to reinforcing the importance of the exchange of students and scholars across borders.
Explore
Discover San Diego
Explore San Diego's local attractions and activities during the weekend and academic breaks. Excursions can include San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, Balboa Park, Whale Watching, and more.
International Triton Trekkers
Two events available per quarter. Outdoor events include overnight camping trips, kayaking, surfing lessons, and more. Enjoy the great outdoors with the International Center and Outback Adventures! For upcoming trip information, visit International Triton Trekkers.
Friends' Resale Shop
The Resale Shop, at the UCSD International Center, is an on-campus thrift store. Proceeds from the sale of gently used clothes, books and household items fund scholarships for international education. Volunteers and donation of goods are welcome. Call (858) 534-1124 for more information.
Mentor/Engage
English in Action Tutor Program
The English-in-Action tutor program (EIA) is a volunteer-run program that helps international students/ scholars and their spouses with English language skills. Anyone can volunteer to be a tutor! All you need is interest in learning about new cultures while helping the international community acclimate to their new environment.
International Student Discussion Forums
Come join us on Friday afternoons from noon to 1 p.m. to meet and discuss topics relevant to International Student life. All forum participants receive a free International Café lunch!
- Students Beyond Borders (Fall quarter)
- Steps to Success (Winter quarter)
- International Summit (Spring quarter)
Language Exchange
Help someone learn your language and enjoy conversational practice in their language in exchange. This is a self-run program where you review who is available and choose your partner based on your language preferences.
- Contacts as agreed upon by you and your partner
- Short-term or long term-commitment
- Easy self-registration
- Located in the International Center Main Office
Orientation Assistant (OA) Program
Help our newcomers get acclimated to their new environment New International Student Orientation, held every fall. As a volunteer Orientation Assistant, you will play an integral role in welcoming hundreds of international students, researchers, faculty, and family members to the UC San Diego campus, while learning about different cultures and having a great time!
People to People International
People to People International is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing international understanding and friendship through educational, cultural and humanitarian activities involving the exchange of ideas and experiences directly among people of different countries and diverse cultures.
Triton International Leaders
The Triton International Leaders mentor program provides an opportunity for newly admitted international students to connect with student mentors, communicate, and have fun! Triton Leaders develop strong leadership and communication skills while new international students are given a forum to familiarize themselves with UC San Diego and learn about the surrounding area.
Friendship and Food
Coffee/Tea With a Professor
Get to know your professors outside of the classroom! Invite them to coffee/tea time at the International Center. Free beverages and snacks provided. More information coming soon.
Friday International Café
Interact with members of the UC San Diego community from all over the world while eating a delicious meal during our International Café held every Friday during the academic year (weeks 1-10) from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the International Center. Everyone and anyone is welcome!
Friends of the International Center
International visitors are welcome every Wednesday morning for coffee, conversation and friendship. 10 a.m. to noon in the International Center.
See the current schedule of activities.
Thanksgiving Exchange Program
International students can spend the Thanksgiving holiday with UC San Diego and local San Diego families to enjoy the Thanksgiving meal together and engage in cultural exchange. To participate as a student or host family, email iprograms@ucsd.edu.
Highlights from the 2011 Exchange Program
Wednesday Morning Coffee
International visitors are welcome every Wednesday morning for coffee, conversation and friendship.10:00 to 12:00 in the International Center.
See the current schedule of activities.
Internationalize your experience!
JOIN I-Club for dynamic cross-cultural exchange!
ENGAGE in dialogue by meeting people from all over the globe.
MENTOR our international newcomers by becoming an Orientation Assistant.
VOLUNTEER to become an English language tutor.
EAT delicious international cuisine every Friday at International Café!
Contact Us
International Students & Programs Office (ISPO)
Phone: (858) 534-3730
Email: iprograms@ucsd.edu
Monday through Friday
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
