ISP MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

The Official Newsletter of SRJC’s International Student Program

International Education Week: November 17-21

Are you looking for more cultural events and opportunities to connect with others? Join us in celebrating international education and exchange at SRJC and SSU! Below are a few highlights — for the full schedule and event details, visit international.santarosa.edu/iew.

Language Bites

Monday 11/17 @12-1PM on Zoom

Help us kick off IEW by sharing your language and culture through fun, 5-minute mini-lessons — greetings, slang, songs, or expressions. Want to teach a language "bite"?

Sign-Up Here

RECA Chinese Culture Presentation

Tuesday 11/18 @12-1PM in Intercultural Center

Join the Redwood Empire Chinese Association (RECA) for an engaging presentation on Chinese history and culture. Discover the traditions, stories, and influences that continue to shape Chinese society today. FREE FOOD!

IEW Fashion Show

Thursday 11/20 @5:30-6:30PM in Bertolini SAC

Walk the runway and show off your culture! We're looking for students to model traditional clothing from their home countries. No experience needed!

Sign-Up Here

OPT Alumni Panel

Friday 11/21 @12-1PM on Zoom

Hear from SRJC and SSU international alumni who successfully applied for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and are now working in the U.S. They’ll share insights and advice about applying for OPT, finding jobs, and building professional experience after graduation.

Friendsgiving Dinner

Friday 11/21 @5-7PM in Polly Hall Great Room

Join students and staff for a cross-cultural Friendsgiving meal! Enjoy traditional Thanksgiving favorites while making new friends. RSVP by 11/6.

Sign-Up Here

Spring 2026 Schedule & Registration

Schedule of Classes

The Spring 2026 class schedule will go live on Tuesday 11/4.

Priority Registration

F-1 visa students have Priority 2 status and can register as early as Monday 11/17.

Counseling Hours

Plan ahead and meet your ISP Counselor during their drop-in hours for support:

Chris Grant: Weds 9:30AM-5PM

Amanda Mansfield: Thurs 10AM-1PM

Final Semester RCL

F-1 visa students may enroll part-time if they need less than 12 units to graduate. Request a Reduced Course Load (RCL) if Spring will be your final semester at SRJC.

Fast Facts

Travel Authorization

Remember to have Page 2 of your Form I-20 signed before departing the U.S.

If your I-20 is expiring in December, watch for an email about your options.

Daylight Savings

Don't forget to turn your clocks back one hour after 2AM on Sunday 11/2.

Spring forward, Fall back!

11/11 Veterans Day

DISTRICT CLOSED

11/27-11/28 Fall Break

DISTRICT CLOSED

Meet Lauren Doan!

Hi! My name is Lauren, I'm from Vietnam and I’m studying Business. My goal is to keep learning, growing, and one day work in international business or brand management. Outside of school, I enjoy watching movies and learning new languages. They both help me understand diverse cultures and see the world from different perspectives.

Studying abroad has been both challenging and rewarding. Being far from my family is not always easy, but it has taught me independence, resilience, and gratitude. I’ve also met amazing friends here who make this place feel like a second home. Just remember that support and kindness can be found anywhere in the world. I’m grateful for the opportunities and experiences I’ve had at SRJC, and I look forward to continuing this journey of learning and growth.

SANTA ROSA JUNIOR COLLEGE | international.santarosa.edu