International Student & Scholar Services University of Miami

International students! If you are a degree-seeking international student who is interested in OPT and/or STEM OPT authorization to engage in off-campus training or employment after completion of your studies, join our live OPT and STEM OPT session on Friday! We will discuss eligibility and the application process for OPT, after which we will hold a question-and-answer session. See you there!

We’re so proud to spotlight Vinay Dharmik, one of our incredible international students from India, whose innovative spirit is taking sustainability all the way to space. 🚀


A sophomore at the College of Engineering, Vinay discovered that cow dung, traditionally used in his home village for insulation, can be transformed into affordable, eco-friendly panels that shield astronauts from harmful radiation. His groundbreaking research shows these materials can rival high-tech composites like Kevlar at a fraction of the cost!


Vinay’s journey embodies the power of global perspectives driving innovation and change. We can’t wait to see where his curiosity and creativity take him next! Link to the article in our story!

Are you a degree-seeking international student in F-1 status interested in engaging in a paid or unpaid off-campus internship or employment during your studies? If so, join us for our upcoming CPT Session!

During the session, we will discuss eligibility and the application process for CPT employment authorization and will hold a question-and-answer session at the end. The link to register can be found in our bio. See you there!

It’s that time of the year again! The ISSS team is looking for team-oriented ISO Fellows who are eager to help welcome their fellow incoming international students. You must be a current sophomore, junior, or senior to apply. Submit your application by 5:00PM EST on Friday, October 31st for consideration!

Join International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) & the Toppel Career Center for an upcoming virtual session covering job search strategies for F-1 & J-1 students. Link 🔗 in our IG bio to register!

‼️Calling all first year international students at UM! You’re invited to an event specifically for you on Wednesday, October 8th at 6:00pm in the Shalala 3rd floor terrace. Connect with your peers, our Fellows from orientation, and share how your first semester is going at the U! 🔗 in bio to register 🙌

We’re back for another OPT session- in person this time! If you are a degree-seeking international student who is interested in OPT authorization to engage in off-campus training or employment after completion of your studies, join our live OPT session on Monday! We will discuss eligibility and the application process for OPT, after which we will hold a question-and-answer session. See you there!

If you are a degree -seeking international student who is interested in OPT authorization to engage in off-campus training or employment after completion of your studies, join our Virtual OPT session next week! We will discuss eligibility and the application process for OPT, after which we will hold a question-and-answer session. See you there!

Have questions about CPT eligibility requirements and the application process? Join ISSS for an in-person CPT information session next week. We hope to see you there!

Special student spotlight- our very own COISO President! This summer, Vrinda was selected as one of just 36 fellows—out of more than 1,800 applicants—for the prestigious 2025 IRTS Foundation Summer Fellowship Program.

This highly competitive, all-expenses-paid experience in New York City offers unparalleled access to the media industry through mentorship, company visits, and networking opportunities.

As part of the program, Vrinda has had the chance to learn from top media professionals and visit industry giants like NBCUniversal, Paramount, FOX, and The Trade Desk.
Currently, she is interning at Carat USA, a dentsu company, where she is gaining hands-on experience on the Procter & Gamble account as a media intern.

As an intern in the Research and Development Department at Intelligent Hearing System (IHS) Corp., Xinyu was involved in software and device testing. IHS specializes in the development of brain signal acquisition software and related equipment. Xinyu’s primary responsibility was to test the performance of a newly developed multi-channel signal acquisition board using the company’s acquisition software. This included measuring EEG signals from subjects, using simulated signals to evaluate the reception ability of each channel, and testing for cross-channel interference.


Wow, Xinyu!