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International Students and Scholars

Office of International Students and Scholars Services

The ISSS provides advising services to CMU students and scholars on F-1, J-1 and other non-immigrant visas. We also provide programming and events for new student orientation, cultural awareness and student success.

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    About the ISSS team

    Our mission

    The International Student and Scholar Services unit (ISSS) within the Office of International Affairs and Graduate Recruitment is here to support and guide international students, scholars, faculty and staff. We work hard to make sure international students and scholars have a smooth transition to life at CMU.

    Our dedicated staff provides personalized advising appointments to help with immigration questions, supports visiting scholars and faculty and connects you to our vibrant international community through cultural programs and events. 

    ISSS provides advising services to students and scholars at CMU on F, J and other nonimmigrant visas. In addition to advising on immigration matters, we provide programming and events for new student orientation, cultural awareness and student success.

    We provide:

    • Immigration advising.
    • Visiting scholar or professor advising.
    • New student orientation.
    • Oversight for international student organizations.
    • Cultural programs and events.

    Six people stand in a line in front of a maroon and gold backdrop that says Welcome Home, with the state of Michigans outline replacing the O, and smile for a group picture in an office building. Maroon and gold balloons decorate the sides

    Central Michigan University students on campus

    CMU by the Numbers

    2,423

    students guided by our office

    64

    countries’ students call CMU home

    902

    alumni advancing their careers through OTP

    LING ZHANG

    EXEC DIR/­GRADUATE & INTERNATIONAL RCMT

    Office of International Affairs & Graduate Recruitment

    KIM MORRISON

    DIR/­INTERNATIONAL STDT/­SCHOLAR SRVS

    Office of International Affairs & Graduate Recruitment

    LUKE MCCARTHY

    COORD/­SEVIS

    Office of International Affairs & Graduate Recruitment

    REANNA AVERILL

    INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVISOR

    Office of International Affairs & Graduate Recruitment

    LAURIE YOST

    ADMIN OFFICE ASSISTANT III/­PT

    Office of International Affairs & Graduate Recruitment

    DAMIEN DEARMENT

    INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVISOR

    Office of International Affairs & Graduate Recruitment

    During business hours
    (Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.)

    • Contact the ISSS Front Desk at (989) 774-4308 and ask to speak with an advisor.
    • Contact an ISSS Advisor via email at isss@cmich.edu (this is the best option if you have Wi-Fi access on a flight and cannot make a phone call)

    After business hours

    If you experience one of the immigration emergencies outlined above after business hours, contact the CMU Police at (989) 774-3081. Let them know that you have an emergency and need to speak with an ISSS advisor.


     

    Emergency contacts

    For medical emergencies or if you feel that your safety or the safety of others is at risk, please call 911. This number works anywhere in the United States and will connect you with local public safety officials.

    The following are immigration emergencies which require immediate attention:

    • Being denied entry into the United States.
    • Being otherwise detained at a U.S. Port of Entry.
    • Being arrested for any reason while in the United States.

    If you experience any of these issues, please follow the steps above, depending on the time of day.

    11th Annual CMU Alumni Weekend on Mackinac Island

    Details:

    Enjoy an unforgettable getaway at the 11th Annual CMU Alumni Mackinac Island Weekend!  

    In partnership with the Island House Hotel, proudly owned by a CMU alumnus, we are thrilled to offer you an unforgettable getaway. With breathtaking waterfront views and easy access to hiking trails and downtown shops, it’s the perfect place to relax, explore and connect. All alumni and friends are invited to attend!

    🌟 Weekend highlights

    • Two fun-filled alumni socials (Friday evening and Saturday afternoon)
    • Connecting with alumni and friends around the island
    • Time to explore the beauty and charm of Mackinac Island!   
    • Whether you're returning or joining us for the first time, this weekend promises fun, friendship and CMU Chippewa pride for all ages. Space is limited – don't miss your chance!  

    ⏰ When 

    Friday, October 10 – Sunday, October 12, 2025 

    📍Where 

    Island House Hotel 
    6966 Main St. 
    Mackinac Island, MI 49757 
    906-847-3347 

    💲 Cost and package details 

    All bookings are made through The Island House Hotel. This exclusive CMU Alumni Weekend package is available in your choice of a Traditional or Deluxe Room (based on double occupancy). 

    🌟 What’s included

    • Two nights lodging
    • Cocktail receptions on Friday & Saturday 
    • $80 meal voucher per room - Redeemable at The 1852 Grill Room (on-site) or Mary’s Bistro (downtown)
    • One complimentary beer per person and Saturday night entertainment at The Draught House
    • 50% off Island House Bike Rental 
    • Round-trip ferry aboard Arnold Transit Company 
    • ½ lb of fudge from Ryba’s Fudge Store 
    • 2 complimentary drink vouchers at Starbucks  

    📦 Package pricing 

    • Rates are per person, for the full two-night stay. All packages are subject to tax. Enjoy a 25% total savings with this exclusive CMU Chippewa bundle. 
      • CMU Alumni Weekend Package + Traditional Room Per Person | $425.00 
      • CMU Alumni Weekend Package + Deluxe Room Per Person | $475.00 
      • Single Room Package | $747.00 (Will receive a $40.00 meal voucher) 
      • Minors (14-20 years) | $55.00 
      • Children (13 years and younger) | $40.00

    🏨 Booking and guest room policy 

    Ready to book your room? Please call 906-847-3347 and speak with any of our staff for assistance, or use this link to book online! 

    Important Notes:

    • Be sure to mention the CMU Alumni Weekend when making your reservation.
      Full payment is required at the time of booking. 

    Cancellation Policy:

    • A $50 fee applies to all cancellations. 
      Cancellations made within 7 days of arrival are non-refundable. 

    Room Block Release:

    • All unbooked rooms will return to general inventory 30 days before arrival. 
      The discounted CMU rate is available through September 13, 2025, and may be extended beyond that date based on availability. 

    We can’t wait to see you on the island! Fire Up Chips! 🔥⬆️

    Date: -
    Time: -
    Location: 6966 Main St.
    Mackinac Island, MI
    Sponsor: Alumni Relations
    Contact: Alumni Relations alumni@cmich.edu 989-774-3312