Mission of the International Center
The mission of the International Center (IC) is to provide immigration and support
services to international students, scholars, faculty and staff. The IC provides a
wide range of programs and services to international students and their families. In
addition, the IC administers the university's J-1 Exchange Visitor Program. The
director coordinates Beyond Borders: International Service and Cultural Exchanges.
Major areas of activity are the following:
- Provide information and assistance to international students and J-1 scholars before their arrival in Tallahassee, and special orientation sessions and materials for students upon arrival.
- Provide programs and activities that help students and their families adjust to Florida State and to the U.S.
- Advise students and scholars as to their obligations under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement /State Department rules, and serve as liaison between them and these agencies.
- In cooperation with University Personnel Services and the Dean of the Faculties Office, provide immigration assistance and process paperwork associated with employment of international faculty and staff in H-1B visa and Permanent Residency applications.
- Create opportunities for international students and scholars to share information about themselves and their cultures with the university and greater community.
- Sponsor programs for the general community that encourage learning about and association with people of other cultures and ethnic groups.
- Advocate on behalf of international students and scholars, by monitoring enrolled student profiles and conducting periodic needs assessments and satisfaction surveys.
- Maintain the IC facility and promote its use by international student groups.