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The Weekly Wrap by Dashew - February 11, 2026

Upcoming Dates & Updates


Scams and Fraud:
Learn How to Spot Them



Immigration Updates PageFind recent and important immigration related information

(visit the webpage)


New to Westwood? Check our some "fun things to do in and around Westwood,

Bruin approved" See the full post on Instagram

DASHEW PROGRAMS & RELATED EVENTS



Need to File your Taxes?

We have partnered with Sprintax!

Deadline is April 15, 2026



Take advantage of this resource and make tax time stress-free! To get your discount on the cost of tax-filing, simply enter F25UCLA1000 when you begin filing. Discount codes are distributed on a first-come first-serve basis. Once you complete the preparation process in the Sprintax software, you may need to print, sign and mail your documents to the IRS. *This will depend on certain eligibility criteria.


J-1 Academic Training Workshop

Thursday, Feb 12 at 1pm PT

Via Zoom


Join the Dashew Center on our next Academic Training Workshop for J-1 Students.

In this workshop we will cover academic training eligibility requirements, the application process, and deadlines

Attendees must register in advance.


Financial Wellness Tax Education Workshop

For International Students

Wednesday, February 18 • 5:00PM PST

Via zoom


Tax season is here, don’t stress it alone! Join UCLA’s FREE Tax Education Workshops hosted by UCLA Financial Wellness, VITA, Wescom Financial and Dashew Center. Learn how to file your taxes with confidence and ask your questions live!



VITA Tax Education Workshop

Feb 25, at 5pm PT Via Zoom


UCLA International students, learn how to file your U.S. taxes with UCLA’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. Join us on February 25th at 5pm via Zoom. This is a free workshop for Bruins!


Register in advance




Need to Open a U.S. Bank Account?

Wescom Financial is Here for You!


Wescom Financial and UCLA Dashew Center have established a partnership to support the international community at UCLA. International students & scholars can now start to open an account with Wescom even before they arrive in the U.S.. Contact Wescom for details.



Learn More & Start Banking




English Language Circle

(January 14 - March 11)  From 12:00PM - 1:00PM


Looking for a supportive space to practice your English conversation skills? Join Dashew Center’s English Language Circle, led by an experienced facilitator who can help with grammar, culture, and confidence in speaking. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunch, and registration is required for each circle you plan to attend.


Check the different sessions Here.



Weekly CPT & OPT Webinars - Wednesdays via Zoom


Interested to know more about off-campus employment as an international (F-1) student? 

 We are hosting live sessions to prepare F-1 students to understand the process of applying for off-campus work authorizations known as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). See upcoming webinars here

Events & Resources Around UCLA Campus


UCLA Career Center Upcoming Events

Week 6


Week 6 Overview is here! Visit the post and check out all the exciting events we have upcoming. More information and event registration is on Handshake! See more information or visit their website.

Bruins Abroad Panel: A Study Abroad Webinar

Wednesday, February 11 • 6:00PM–7:00PM PT

Virtual via Zoom


Thinking about studying abroad but unsure where to start or worried about finances? This interactive panel will feature Latinx UCLA alumni sharing their transformative study abroad experiences, alongside UCLA International Education Office staff explaining program options and the application process. The session includes a live Q&A and student sharing portion, making it a great opportunity to ask questions and gain clarity. Registration is required to attend.


Register HERE

2nd Act | Networking for Your Next Chapter

Thursday, February 12 • 12:00PM PT

Zoom


This interactive session reimagines networking as an authentic and energizing human skill. Led by executive and career coach Liz Mohler, participants will learn how to build meaningful relationships aligned with their current values and goals. Through practical tools, real-world examples, and networking scripts, attendees will gain confidence in connecting with intention and ease. Ideal for those considering a career pivot or expanding their personal and professional impact.


More Information

Meeting of the Minds: Self & Community Care in Troubling

Political Times

Thursday, February 12 • 12:15PM–1:45PM

Ashe Center, Large Conference Room, Suite 414


This thoughtful conversation brings together expert perspectives on sustaining mental health and strengthening relationships during challenging political moments. Hosted by UCLA Semel HCI Center MindWell and EngageWell, the session will share practical strategies for individual and collective well-being. Participants will explore ways to foster community connection and resilience. RSVP is requested.


Event Website


GSRC x GSA Study Jam

Thursday, February 12 • 2:00PM–6:00PM

Student Activities Center, Conference Room 4


Looking for a focused study space outside the library? Join the GSRC and GSA for an afternoon Study Jam featuring quiet study time, pizza, and snacks. This event offers a relaxed but productive environment to help you power through coursework. Drop in anytime during the event window.


More Information HERE


Casablanca: Valentine’s Day Screening

Thursday, February 12 - Doors 7:30PM • Show 8:00PM

James Bridges Theater


Experience Casablanca on the big screen in this special Valentine’s Day screening hosted by UCLA CEC. A timeless romance set in a world at war, the film explores love, sacrifice, and impossible choices. Tickets are required, and RSVP does not guarantee entry. This event is open to UCLA undergraduate students only.


Screening Information

Contemplative Art Viewing

Friday, February 13 • 11:00AM–12:00PM

Fowler Museum


Enjoy a rare, quiet hour in the galleries before the museum opens to the public. Mindfulness educator Mitra Manesh will guide participants through contemplative art viewing in the exhibition Intersections: World Arts/Local Lives. Through mindfulness practices, attendees will deepen their connection to the artwork and to themselves. This program is offered in partnership with UCLA Mindful.


Event Information

Artist Workshop: Finger Knit Dumpling Bag

Saturday, February 14 • 1:00PM–3:00PM

Fowler Museum


Celebrate Lunar New Year with a hands-on fiber arts workshop led by artist Nancy “Nensh” Lee. Participants will learn to finger knit a dumpling-shaped bag using jumbo yarn, no needles or prior experience required. Inspired by dumplings as symbols of abundance and good fortune, this workshop offers a cozy and creative experience. Space is limited and registration is required through the Fowler Museum Store.


RSVP Now!


AAP Peer Counselor Applications

Application Deadline: Sunday, February 16 • 11:59PM


Interested in giving back to the AAP community while supporting fellow students academically? Apply to become an AAP Peer Counselor for Summer FTSP 2025 and or the 2026–2027 academic year. Peer Counselors play a vital role in mentoring and supporting AAP students. Info sessions are available both on Zoom and in person.


Apply now!

Leadership Series: Uncovering the Hidden Curriculum

Tuesday, February 17 • 5:00PM–6:00PM

Zoom


Graduate school success extends beyond coursework, and this workshop helps unpack the “hidden curriculum” of academia. Participants will explore strategies for building relationships, navigating funding and employment roles, communicating with advisors, and fostering resilience. Whether early in your program or approaching candidacy, this session offers practical tools to help you thrive.


Workshop Information

Bruin Affiliates February Luncheon

Wednesday, February 18 • 11:30AM

James West Alumni Center


Join Bruin Affiliates for a luncheon featuring guest speaker Alex Korb, Ph.D., neuroscientist and author of The Upward Spiral. Korb will discuss how small, actionable steps can positively influence brain function and emotional well-being. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event.


Event Website

LGBTQ CRC Inclusive Excellence Training: Know Your Rights

Wednesday, February 18 • 2:00PM–4:00PM


This training provides an overview of current laws, policies, and guidance affecting LGBTQ communities. Participants will gain practical skills to support students and understand the evolving legal landscape. The session is designed for professionals seeking clarity and actionable recommendations to share on campus.


More Information

Safety and Respect on Campus

Wednesday, February 18 • 4:00PM–5:00PM

Zoom


This workshop supports graduate students in recognizing early warning signs of boundary violations and power imbalances in academic settings. Participants will learn about their rights, self-advocacy strategies, and available campus resources. A CARE Advocate will provide guidance through discussion and scenario-based learning.


Learn More Here


How-To-Housing Workshop

Wednesday, February 19 • 6:00PM – 7:00PM

Hedrick Hall, Movement Studio


Have questions about housing? This workshop will cover everything from leases and commuting to transportation options and housing logistics. Whether you are navigating off-campus housing for the first time or just want clearer guidance, this session offers practical tips and resources to help you feel more confident about your housing decisions.


See More Details

Bruin Dine: Free Late-Night Meals

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays • 10:00PM

Student Activities Center (SAC), Basement


Bruin Dine is a student-run organization that works to eliminate food waste and reduce food insecurity at UCLA by recovering unserved, hot food from the dining halls and redistributing it for free. Everyone is welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own container to help reduce waste, though limited containers will be available if needed. Follow @uclabruindine on Instagram for event updates and questions.


More Information

Recommended Resources


Filing Taxes as an international Student?

Learn More Today


It’s important to be aware that, as a nonresident student in the US, you’re legally required to file a tax return if you received US income during 2025.  

 In fact, even if you didn’t work or receive income in the US, you’re still obliged to file a Form 8843 with the IRS. Need to learn more about filing your taxes? Visit our Tax Resources Page and attend the upcoming workshops!


What is Togetherall?


Togetherall is an anonymous online community where members can support each other, share experiences, and seek guidance. It’s a safe, supportive space monitored by licensed clinicians to ensure a positive environment. Check out a quick look. How do I join? Signing up is easy- go to togetherall.com and use your UCLA student email address to register as a member of a university or college.


Healthcare at UCLA Guide & Ashe Center Quiz


UCLA Ashe Center has creative a helpful guide to students to learn more about how you can use the healthcare services on campus and with your health insurance. See the Healthcare guide here. F1 and J1 visa students are covered by the UC Student Health Insurance Plan (UC SHIP) while enrolled at UCLA.

Location: 106 Bradley International Hall

417 Charles E. Young Drive West, Los Angeles, CA 90095


Phone: +1-310-825-1681 (voicemail only)

 www.internationalcenter.ucla.edu


General Inquiries: oissassi@saonet.ucla.edu

F-1 Visa Students: dcissf1unit@saonet.ucla.edu

J-1 Visa Students and Scholars: dcissj1unit@saonet.ucla.edu

Programming: intlprograms@saonet.ucla.edu 


More Ways to Contact Us