International Student Services

We take a proactive approach to student services from start to completion of a degree. Opportunities for community volunteering, student employment, internships and cooperative experiences add value to your educational experience. Student health and counseling services are available, along with a variety of fitness facilities. We have an impressive library, 15 residence halls, and an unlimited dining/meal plan with special arrangements for international students or those with unique dietary needs.

Student Life

SUNY Oneonta recognizes the unique needs of international students. We provide a variety of services to enhance your academic, social and cultural life, including:

• the Office of Global Education (OGE) hosts on and off-campus activities such as field trips, shopping, special events, social gatherings and guest speakers;
• the International Student Organization (ISO), a broad-reaching community of domestic and international students is one of more than 150 student clubs and organizations; and
• American Discovery class (GEOG 1020, 3 s.h.), a course offered to new international students as an introduction to the culture and history of our upstate New York region. This extended orientation to SUNY Oneonta is designed to assist new international students with your academic and cultural acclimation to U.S. geographies and environments. This course incorporates field trips to culturally and geographically significant sites such as Niagara Falls, Boston, and local sites such as Howe Caverns. Note: sometimes the course does not run in the spring semester, as it depends on the number of new international students, but the excursions are offered every semester.

Services

Our knowledgeable OGE staff are a resource center for international students—we provide the highest quality of guidance for non-immigrant visa holders authorized to engage in scholarly activities or academic studies.

We offer comprehensive assistance on campus and community internationalization, academic success, and immigration guidance, including specialized workshops of significance to students on topics such as health insurance, maintaining F1 and J1 status, optional practical training/work permit information, advice on student visas and regulations, as well as information on community service.

English Language Learners (ELL)

Our faculty understand that language learning is a difficult and cumulative process, and our ESL curriculum allows students whose English skills are already good enough for admission to SUNY Oneonta to be able to polish their skills even further. Our ESL courses enhance the learning process and can also provide an avenue for conditional admission to SUNY Oneonta, as supplemental ESL work might be necessary for a successful transition and integration into classes with native speakers. Admission dossiers of new degree-seeking or exchange students are reviewed by our ESL team, and placement testing upon arrival to campus may be required to determine whether ESL classes will be necessary. SUNY Oneonta offers a flexible curriculum in ESL to meet the individual needs of each of our students.

Peer Mentors

Peer Mentors help new international students adjust to U.S. culture and university life, utilize campus resources, and get involved in SUNY Oneonta's university living environment. Peer Mentors help with airport pickups, new international student orientation, culture-focused events, and provide guidance to new students throughout the first semester.

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Meet The Office of Global Education (OGE) Peer Mentors

Kim Catalan

OGE Peer Mentor
Email: CATAKD590@oneonta.edu
Year: Second Semester Freshman
Major: Fashion Design

About Me: I am Guatemalan, and I am an aspiring fashion designer who is hoping to make a change in the fashion industry. My hobbies are reading, dancing, and listening to music!

Something on my bucket list: Traveling around the world and attending many fashion shows.

Why I wanted to become a Peer Mentor: I was friends with the peer mentors and became friends with some of the international students as well. I found it interesting how they had a big impact on the lives of the mentees, and how the position of a peer mentor is to help others and be a guide for them. I loved the idea of being able to help others and introduce them to a new culture.

Advice to international students: Focus on your goals and create a mindset where you feel comfortable with yourself and being open minded. Also enjoy the time for present you and prepare yourself for FUTURE you.

Moe Figueroa

OGE Peer Mentor
Email: figug578@oneonta.edu
Year: Junior
Major: Media Studies

About Me: I have traveled around to PR, GUATEMALA, El Salvador, Canada & more. I can speak 3 languages. I’m also a Dragon Guide for this Fall semester and I love being involved around campus!

Something on my bucket list: I would love to try and achieve to produce and write in my future career an animated movie for kids.

Why I wanted to become a Peer Mentor: My friends who were mentors, encouraged me to apply. I was always told that I am a reliable support for individuals who are new to the country I can also relate to them as a person who has experience with moving to a new country. I believe assisting these upcoming students means that they can feel comfortable to share their experiences and obstacles together.

Advice to international students: ASK QUESTIONS!! if you ask questions i can be a helpful guide for you and don’t be shy to get out of your comfort level and try new things!

Tess O’Driscoll

OGE Peer Mentor
Email: odrita937@oneonta.edu
Year: Senior
Major: Communication Studies

About Me: I'm from Westchester, NY. I have studied abroad in Spain and Greece! I have two cats and a dog. I love to read, draw, and run.

Something on my bucket list: Skydiving!

Why I wanted to become a Peer Mentor: I want to be able to help international students feel comfortable at Oneonta. I want to make their transition smooth and help them meet new people and have a great experience.

Advice to international students: Don't be afraid to try new things! Go to a variety of events and join clubs that you are interested in.

Sabrina Sholes

OGE Peer Mentor
Email: sholsl639@oneonta.edu
Year: Sophomore
Major: Anthropology

About Me: I was born in Northern California and grew up between the beautiful states of Nevada and California. I’ve had the opportunity to explore Santa Catalina Island and Mexico. In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, practicing archery, and experimenting with creative makeup looks.

Something on my bucket list: I want to become fluent in two other languages and write a complete book series!

Why I wanted to become a Peer Mentor: I wanted to become a peer mentor because some of my friends from other countries have shared their struggles with adjusting to life in America. They’ve told me how having a supportive friend really helped them through the culture shock. When I found out about the peer mentor program for international students, I got excited about the opportunity to help others going through similar experiences. My goal is to create a welcoming environment for international students, so they can explore the beauty of our country and connect with people from all over the world. I also can’t wait to learn about their home countries and cultures, which will enrich my knowledge too!

Advice to international students: Don't hesitate to reach out for support whenever you need it! Remember to practice self-care and take time to do something that brings you a sense of home. This will help feel less home-sick! Explore and make new friends!

Grace Song

OGE Peer Mentor
Email: songgh871@oneonta.edu
Year: Junior
Major: Childhood Education (B-6): Concentration in Liberal Arts

About Me: I was born in South Korea; I can speak Korean and English fluently. My hobbies are; listening to music, traveling to Korea, and trying new food.

Something on my bucket list: Traveling around Asia and learning a new language

Why I wanted to become a Peer Mentor: After meeting the former international students, I learned about their culture and enjoyed being around them. I wanted to learn a lot more, so when I got the opportunity to be a peer mentor I applied.

Advice to international students: Join clubs and get involved in different activities/events. Grab some coffee from Starbucks and hang out with friends at the OGE lounge.

Meet Our Staff