International Student Council Application
Mission
The International Student Council (ISC) at UMD is a group of international student representatives selected to provide insights on pressing student issues to the International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) office and other campus units. Members are expected to foster and maintain strong relationships with international student organizations and the UMD international student population to understand their experiences and challenges. In turn, members can collect and share information as necessary. Grounded in improving international student support on campus, this board seeks to empower students to develop creative solutions to the identified challenges.
General topic areas that ISC members may consider
- Career Development offerings
- Navigating a large campus
- Academic success
- Social and cultural adjustment
- International Community: academic and social needs
- Other topics raised by council members and the international student community
Summary of Timeline
- August 25, 2025 - Applications open
- September 12 - Applications are due
- September 25 - ISC Applicants will be notified
- October 7 - First Meeting
Representation
Twelve (12) council members should represent F-1 status international students in the following categories: first-year, transfer (SEVIS*), undergraduate, professional master, academic master, and Ph.D. students.
Council Member Responsibilities
- Attend a retreat at the beginning of the fall semester
- Actively participate in monthly ISC meetings
- Be active in the international student life community
- Reach out to international student peers to hear about their experience
- Learn about ISSS and other campus resources/outreach for international students and share this with peers
- Develop and present an “Annual Council Report" to ISSS staff each year
Meeting Dates and Times
- TBD
Selection Criteria
The selection committee seeks candidates representing the UMD international student body under F-1 or J-1 status. This includes actively engaged students from all academic disciplines, countries, and degree levels. Holding a student leadership position is not a prerequisite for participation in the ISC. In addition to meeting the representation requirement, applications will be assessed using the following overarching criteria.
The applicant is a good candidate for:
- Building meaningful relationships with international student organizations and UMD international students.
- Serving as a leader by sharing resources and programs that support international students.
- Listening to and seeking to understand the challenges faced by the international student community.
- Developing creative and analytical solutions to improve the international student experience.
Application Process
Information on how to apply will be updated in August.