Welcome to the Fall 2020 semester at Santa Monica College! In this unusual semester
when all classes and activities are online, it’s exciting to think that we have students
studying literally all over the world!
There are many ways to connect and get support at the college this semester. Please
join the International Education Center for our weekly Open House on Zoom every Tuesday
from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This is an unstructured time when you can drop in to
chat, ask a question of your fellow students, or share a great tip. Join us for our
Weekly Mingle every Friday from 2-3 p.m. There is a topic for each Mingle, and often
a game. This is another opportunity to meet other students, make friends online,
and get your questions answered. Check your SMC e-mail each week for the links to
these events.
Check out the Student Support section of our new website to find helpful links to
the Library for assistance with your online classes, to Health Services for ways to
stay healthy and calm during these challenging times, and for a wide variety of other
services available to you as an SMC student.
We look forward to seeing you in class, and during our events outside of class, but
safely online this semester. Please reach out to the International Education Center
at IntlEd@smc.edu anytime with your questions. We are looking forward to helping you!
All the Best,
Pressian Nicolov, Dean, IEC
Denise Kinsella, Associate Dean, IEC
Important reminders for new and continuing students:
Wear your mask, wash your hand, and practice social distancing.
Check your SMC email daily
Join IEC and other campus virtual meetings. It is a great way to connect with friends
and get your questions answered.
Personal Information Update
The International Education Center is required to have current information on F1 students.
This includes address, phone number, and email address. If you have not provided IEC
with your current contact information, please email us IntlEd@smc.edu. You may still update your information on Corsair Connect, but you must also notify
the International Education Center.
F-1 Students Continuing Studies Outside the U.S. in Fall 2020
In order to maintain your F1 status from your home country, you must complete the
semester with 12 units. If you are below 12 units and are not approved for a reduced
course load, your I-20 will be terminated at the end of the semester, and you will
need to apply for reinstatement.
Health Insurance
A referral is required any time the SHSC or the CWW is open. Due to COVID-19, the referral is not required for fall term only. Effective 8/25, all students are required to obtain a new insurance ID card.Get your insurance card at the Wellfleet websiteFind an In-network provider at the Cigna website
New Dial Care Service
DialCare Physician Access connects you with state-licensed, fully credentialed doctors,
via phone and video chat, to provide treatment and advice for common ailments. No
referral or co-payment required.DialCare Mental Wellness connects you with a mental
health professional. It is safe, secure, and confidential.Learn more about DialCare.
Talk through feelings of anxiety, loneliness, stress, or just to have someone supportive
to talk to. Center for Wellness and Wellbeing.
The pop-up drive thru food pantry is available on Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. Be prepared to show your current SMC ID
or proof of enrollment. For more information or update, follow SMC on Instagram.
A good way to get involved at SMC and get to know like-minded students, is to join a club that shares your interests! This is also a nice way to explore new interests!
Let's Be Social!
Connect with other F1 international students via Zoom.
Weekly Mingle
Fridays, 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm PST
Join the IEC Team for a social hour of games, conversation and fun. Connect with
IEC Peer Mentors, SMC students and staff to explore different themes. Check your SMC
email for the weekly zoom link.
IEC Peer Mentor Open House
Tuesdays, 11:15 am PST
Take a break and connect! IEC Peer Mentor Open House is a great opportunity to hang
out, reach out, or just chill out with IEC Peer Mentors. Share what’s on your mind,
gripe about homework, ask questions, or meet new friends. Check your SMC email for
the weekly zoom link.