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 who represent the diversity of the UMD international student body under F-1 or J-1 status. This includes students actively engaged across all academic disciplines, countries, and degree levels. Prior leadership experience is not required to be part of the International Student Council (ISC).

In addition to meeting the representation requirement, applicants will be evaluated on the following criteria:

• Demonstrated ability to build meaningful relationships with international student organizations and fellow international students at UMD.
• Interest in serving as a peer leader by sharing campus resources and promoting programs that benefit the international student community.
• Willingness to listen to and understand the diverse experiences and challenges of international students.
• Capacity to develop creative, collaborative, and analytical approaches to enhance the international student experience.
• Commitment to actively contribute to ISC initiatives by co-leading a working subgroup (e.g., outreach, assessment, or social media marketing) that supports the council’s goals.