Mission Statement and Director's Welcome

Mission Statement

The mission of ISSS is to support international student and scholar success and retention through immigration advising and compliance, individual support services and collaboration with departments, faculty and staff across campus in a manner that strengthens and broadens the intercultural and international dimensions at Georgia State.

Welcome to Georgia State!

Welcome to Georgia State! We are so excited to have you join the State family. You are joining an incredibly special community that currently represents over 3300 international students and scholars from more than 120 countries. The International Student and Scholar Services staff, an office in the Division of Student Affairs, is eager to meet you and to provide any assistance and support you may need as you navigate your experience at this outstanding, urban, research university! We strive to provide friendly, quality service and support to all international students and scholars on campus and to remain up-to-date on the ever-changing regulations that affect your immigration status. Come to us with any questions or concerns that you have and expect us to inform you of any relevant updates or opportunities. ISSS will keep in touch with you through our website, monthly newsletters to your Georgia State e-mail account and our ISSS Facebook Page, so check your account regularly for these important updates and announcements. Our website will be a key tool in answering many of your questions, but we welcome you to come by our office during advising hours or to call if you need any assistance. Weekly workshops and special events/seminars are offered throughout the semester as well.

Here at Georgia State, we do things differently. We do things #THESTATEWAY. I encourage you to think beyond a traditional method of pursuing your studies while here. Get out and get involved. There are numerous ways to do so, including joining an ISAC (International Student Association Council) group, becoming a V.I.S.A. Leader or joining any of the 400 student organizations on campus. This type of involvement and engagement will enhance your experience here and demonstrate to you how unique and special #thestateway truly is. You are so fortunate to be studying in downtown Atlanta, one of the most dynamic and evolving cities in the United States and given our strategic location in the southeast, the city provides amazing access to many other parts of the country (which I also encourage you to explore, but only during official university breaks!).

Once again, welcome to Georgia State and we look forward to working with you.

 

Sincerely,

Jody Pritt

Director, International Student & Scholar Services