TUKOLE International Student Services Office
The TUKOLE International Student Services Office (TISSO) is support and programming available to undergraduate and graduate international students provided at the institution and immediate geographical area in which they are studying.
We have services developed to meet international students' specific needs during their post-secondary studies in order to make their international learning time a wholesome experience.
HELP IS AVAILABLE
International students can experience challenges in a number of areas, including language barriers, academics, social and cultural differences, discrimination, financial stressors, and mental health concerns.
These are not easy problems to overcome, and there is so much we all can do to help.
Click below to find help if you or an international student you know needs help
The TUKOLE International Student Services Office is a collaboration effort by African Student Organizations (ASO) in colleges and universities around the United States and the TUKOLE Foundation in Dallas, Texas.
We work with the institution's international office or student affairs professionals from other departments along with alumni and current students to create a network of partners willing to make sure that the international student is well equipped to be a good student and have a successful time in the United States.
Large universities and those with large populations of International students may offer counselling or offices (often part of the institutions' student affairs or student services department Institutions) to cater to these students. However, colleges with smaller student populations may not have a dedicated international office but should still have student affairs professionals dedicated to working with international students.
We have developed strategies and programs to support all students and create a path for international students to be successful in their studies in the United States.
Orientation and transition
It is common for international students to experience culture shock when moving to a new country to participate in higher education. They are often met with having to adjust to new cultural norms of the country as well as a new academic setting.
Orientation and transition programming allows international student to adjust to their new surroundings and begin meeting their fellow classmates
Immigration Advising
Immigration advising for international students includes advising on all questions by immigration attorneys that work with international students.
Permits allowing students to work in the country where the student is studying, both during their time as a student and after graduation
Documentation and paperwork required for travel within the country where the student is studying as well as to other countries
Academic and language support
International students can experience academic challenges if they are studying in a country where the language of instruction is not the student's first language or when the classroom style is different from the student's home country.
TISSO provides counselling and translation services in to make sure all important information is received timely, and is explained and delivered to guardians and parents.
Post-graduation planning support
After graduation, international students can return to their home country. However, they may also want to stay in the country where they are studying, to work and become a permanent resident or to continue their education. These options require additional immigration authorizations that TISSO can provide information and support on.
Social and Cultural Programming
TISSO seeks to help international students adjust to their new academic setting and build their interpersonal skills by introducing them to social and cultural programs with other student services departments at the institution. We also encourage the creation of peer-to-peer programs for international students where they do not exist.
Residential and Housing Support
Many international students are unfamiliar with the area and we help in securing affordable suitable housing that fits into financial constraints created by high tuition costs and work limitations. Information about housing processes and costs are not as readily available, creating additional challenges when deciding on housing options.
And many more services such as:
Employment Guidance and Support
Religious Service information
Legal aid and services
Academic Learning and Tutor Aid
Health and Wellness support
Ready?
Contact us today to see what your options are
