Greetings from the International Student Organization (ISO)

Dear International Class of 2015,

Congratulations and Welcome! Each year Yale opens its doors to fresh young people from all continents and they walk through Phelps Gate carrying with them not only their rather heavy bags but also a huge variety of languages, culture, cuisine, dresses and lots more. And as you bask in the warm glow of your achievement at having made it to the best university in the world (no exaggeration!), as an international student you have yet another reason to rejoice.

At Yale you are part of a select, and often envied, group that helps this University celebrate the diversity of its student community and makes it the most wonderful place for any foreign student to be. Not only does this special association provide us the opportunity of meeting others from completely different parts of the world, but it also gives us a chance to show the rest of the university just how cool and fun it is to be international. It is all of us that that contribute immensely towards the diversity at Yale and help make it such an awesome global experience for all. Some truly memorable times await you all.

Reputed as the largest cultural organization at Yale, the International Students’ Organization (or ISO) is extremely prominent on campus. With its four councils; Cultural, Financial, Political and social, the ISO has a strong presence in all major facets of undergraduate campus life. From hosting relevant panel discussions on current political issues to organizing the largest cultural show at Yale to helping you get your drivers’ licenses, social security and tax returns to throwing massive parties and raves at exciting venues on and off campus, quite simply ISO is where its at. With some really cool ideas for new projects, this year’s ISO board hopes to extend its scope and broaden its horizons as we look to take ISO to the next level. It is indeed an exciting time for the Organization, and we hope all of you can be an active part of this evolution. (Information about how to be a part of the ISO and its four councils will be divulged in due time).

From experience I know the summer before college can be best described by a feeling of nervous excitement. At times, the prospect of being an international student can be slightly daunting. Rest assured, you have nothing to worry about. Soon the bonds of friendship that you will form and the relationships that you will develop will foster such a strong sense of community within you that Yale will become like your new home. It is my hope that the International Students’ Organization can be that family for all of you, just as it has been for all of us in the past. But for now, just cherish your achievements and enjoy being in the same fortunate positions that we all found ourselves in, after getting accepted at Yale.
Looking forward to seeing many of you at OIS and later during Freshmen Bazaar.

Best,

Sikander Ali Khan
President, 2011-2012
International Students’ Organization

 

Orientation for Yale College Students (OIS)