It can be difficult to leave your family and friends behind to live in another country. However, most international students make new friends through activities, clubs, and organizations on campus. Explore some of the many ways in which you can get involved on campus. The Visit Springfield Illinois website also has excellent information on great restaurants, sites and attractions, arts, culture, history, shopping, and the Illinois Times is a great resource local upcoming events! You can visit Outdoors Adventures website for more fun as well!
Events
Fall 2026 events, activities, and workshops:
| DATE & TIME | Event/Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, August 20 All DAY | Fall 2026 New International Student Orientation | Student Union - Center Ballroom |
| Friday, August 28 5 - 7 pm | International Student Welcome Party | Student Union Ballroom |
| Friday, September 11 2 pm – 4 pm | OPT Workshop for Fall 2026 graduates | Brookens Auditorium |
| Friday, November 13 2 pm – 4 pm | OPT Workshop for Spring 2027 graduates | Brookens Auditorium |
*TBA= To Be Announced
Holidays
International Education
Local Organizations Supporting International Education
- Chicago Council on Global Affairs
- Indian Association of Greater Springfield
- Interfaith Coalition
- Islamic Society of Greater Springfield
- NPR Illinois
- Peoria World Affairs Council
- Sister Cities Association of Springfield, Illinois
- Springfield Commission on International Visitors
- The Hindu Temple of Greater Springfield
- World Affairs Council of Central Illinois
- World Business Chicago
Newsletters
- April Newsletter 2026 (PDF)
- March Newsletter 2026 (PDF)
- February Newsletter 2026 (PDF)
- January Newsletter 2026 (PDF)
- October Newsletter 2025 (PDF)
- September Newsletter 2025 (PDF)
If you have any questions about the events, please contact:
Erika Suzuki, Program Coordinator
217-206-8164
esuzu2@uis.edu
