Faculty, Scholar & Family Programming

The ISSC Faculty and Scholars Team is dedicated to enhancing the experience of international faculty, scholars and their families at ASU. Through social gatherings, cultural celebrations and family‑friendly activities, we create opportunities to build community, exchange cultures and feel at home in Arizona. Below you’ll find our main program areas and upcoming events designed to support you throughout your ASU journey.

Program types

Through welcome programming, signature experiences, and community-based events, these programs foster connection, cultural engagement, and a strong sense of belonging for international students.

Welcome Events

Held at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, the Scholar & Family Welcome Orientation offers a warm introduction to ASU for incoming international scholars and their families. During this session, you will learn about immigration regulations, U.S. customs, ASU and Arizona resources, healthcare and tips for settling into life in the United States. Continuing scholars are invited to complete a brief survey to share insights and advice that can help new scholars navigate their ASU journey. Selected responses may be highlighted during the Welcome Event to support incoming scholars as they get started at ASU.

Share your advice as a continuing scholar

Signature Events

Signature Events are distinctive, recurring gatherings that bring faculty, scholars and their families together throughout the academic year. These programs blend seasonal celebrations with scholarly showcases, creating space to connect socially and highlight international research. Examples include our Fall Thanksgiving Gathering, Winter Holiday Celebration, International Scholar Research Showcase, ISSC Chef’s Table and the International Research Poster Session.

Learn about upcoming signature events

Coffee & Explore Series

The International Scholar Coffee & Explore Series is a casual, recurring program designed to support scholars’ well‑being and sense of belonging at ASU. Each gathering offers a relaxed space to connect over coffee while discovering a new place or experience on campus or in the local community. Past activities have included a hike to “A” Mountain, a guided visit to the ASU Art Museum and a special “hidden gem” outing in Tempe. Check out the upcoming Coffee & Explore dates.

Get involved beyond events

There are many ways to share your experiences, showcase your work and stay connected with the ISSC community beyond events. Browse our newsletters, highlight your research and contribute to our international scholar cookbook to help fellow scholars feel informed, inspired and supported.

Be featured in Scholar Spotlight
Share your academic and personal story through our Scholar Spotlight so other scholars can learn from your journey; selected spotlights may also be featured on our LinkedIn page.
- Complete the Scholar Spotlight form
- Visit our LinkedIn page
Share a favorite recipe
Explore the ISSC International Scholar & Family Cookbook, which features dishes and recipes shared by international scholars and their families. If you would like to contribute, you can submit a recipe that reflects your culture, traditions or family memories.
- View the cookbook
- Submit a recipe