Greetings, Students & Scholars!

The sun is shining, and spring break is here! Whether you feel like you could use more support this semester or want to get out and explore Pittsburgh this week, exciting things are happening all over the city. Whatever your plans for the week might be, enjoy this well-deserved break! We hope you enjoy this issue of the OIE "Friday Greetings" email.

OIE & CMU News & Events

Office Closure

The Office of International Education will be closed Friday, March 11, for the University's recognition of Staff Appreciation Day. Please plan accordingly, and we wish you all a happy spring break.

CPT Off-Campus Summer Work Authorization

If you are an F-1 student who is planning to apply for CPT off-campus work authorization this summer, self-enroll in our new CPT Canvas Course. The earliest date to apply for CPT is March 23, which coincides with the first day of summer registration. Students who previously completed the e-learning course last year will need to complete this canvas course. If you completed the e-learning course earlier this semester, you may use your quiz results.

Tax Season Reminder

Decorative graphic is red background, graphic of money and magnifying glass, and text Tax Season

Tax season is here, and the deadline to file taxes in the U.S. is April 18. Be sure to check your email for an important tax update we sent, and 2021 tax filing resources for students and scholars.

Pittsburgh Double Bass Symposium

Music lovers unite! Carnegie Mellon University School of Music is proud to present the Pittsburgh Double Bass Symposium on Sunday, March 6, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. This year's event will be streamed live on Carnegie Mellon's YouTube Channel. This year's symposium features classes and performances from some of the most talented double bass players from across the country. Learn more about the performers and register online.

Asian Voices Support Group

Sometimes you need a little extra support and a space to feel truly heard. Consider joining the Asian Voices Support Group, which meets virtually on Tuesdays from 4 to 5 p.m. This group aims to provide a supportive and safe space for students who identify within the wide spectrum of Asian/Asian American backgrounds. Students can connect with other Asian American/Asian diaspora students at CMU over a broad range of topics, including, but not limited to, identity, cultural values and expectations, academics, racism, and any other issues that participants find relevant. Learn more about the group.

Anxiety Support Group

Anxiety can affect us all, and it's ok to ask for help. The Anxiety Support Group meets on Tuesdays, from 1:30 to 3 p.m., and is an opportunity for students with anxiety to gather together for support, validation and connection. This group is a great fit for students who are aware of their anxiety, have a sense of how anxiety impacts their lives, and have some coping skills to manage anxiety already. More mental health resources are available through CAPS, along with group registration information.

Connect with us on Social Media

Join us on LinkedIn and Twitter! OIE has officially made the switch to Twitter and LinkedIn. Follow us on Twitter to stay up to date with the latest announcements and all things OIE related. Join our LinkedIn group, and get connected with the OIE community! You can expect the same great content, including all things OIE, news and events, our Friday Greeting round-up, and more. As always, you can reach out directly to OIE by emailing us at oie@andrew.cmu.edu. We hope to see you there!

Our Pittsburgh Picks

Guided Tour: Women Forging the Way

March is women's history month! Learn about the fascinating stories of women who shaped Pittsburgh's history. On Saturday, March 5, join an hour-long guided tour exploring important themes in Western Pennsylvania history. This week's tour will include a closer look at the Heinz History Center's Pittsburgh: A Tradition of Innovation exhibit. From Nellie Bly and Daisy Lampkin to Lois Weber and Mary Lou Williams, you will learn all about the history-making women of Pittsburgh who have forged the way for future generations. Tours are included in the price of admission, and you can purchase tickets in advance.

Painting with a Twist

Painting of a cherry blossom tree in front of water

Show off your creative side! Painting with a Twist offers take-home art kits and on-demand step-by-step instructions to paint a masterpiece all from the comfort of your own space. Kits include your painting surface, paint, brushes, a cup for water, napkins, a paper-plate palette, a disposable apron, printed instructions, and access to an online video; everything you need to accomplish your masterpiece! You'll receive an email once your kit is ready for pick up. Just stop by their South Side studio on a Monday or Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. Check out all the options you can choose from and sign up online.

The Science Center's 18+ Night: EDM Block Party

Colorful event poster with text 18+ night EDM block party Friday March 4

Experience the Science Center after dark! On Friday, March 4, from 6 to 10 p.m., party with your friends while experiencing the science behind neon lights and more. Uncover the science of black light and learn how invisible ultraviolet light makes things glow. See how elements like nitrogen and hydrogen absorb energy and emit light through spectroscopy. Explore the science of studio recording and audio engineering with local Producer, Recording, and Mix Engineer Jon Miller. Plus, an EDM Block Party with a full lineup of DJs across multiple stages. Tickets can be purchased in advance; you must be at least 18 years old to attend.

Steel City Improv Theater

Have you ever tried to write your own puns? It's a fairly difficult pun-dertaking! Whether you want to leave the jokes to the pros or maybe take a few improv classes, Steel City Improv Theater has you covered. Located only a few blocks away at 5950 Ellsworth Ave, all shows are only $5 through the end of March. Check out "This Just In," a humorous sketch drawing from the weirdest and funniest headlines, or "Field Mouse Bone House," an audience-driven narrative story that's different each time you see it! More information is available.

Best Breakfast in the 'Burgh

Picture of blueberry tart and coffee cup

Staying in Pittsburgh for the break? Check out some of these unique spots to grab breakfast! Whether you prefer the classics like Pamela's, or you want to try something new like Waffles, INCaffeinated, which specializes in stuffed waffles, Pittsburgh is a foodie's dream. Find your new favorite breakfast spot today!

Have an Event or Announcement for Friday Greetings?

If you have an event or announcement that you wish to submit for inclusion in OIE's Friday Greetings newsletter, please submit it to ES-Communications@andrew.cmu.edu. Information should be submitted by Wednesday at 5 p.m. EST for inclusion in the following Friday's newsletter.

CMU's Office of International Education distributed this email. You are receiving it because of your status as an international student or scholar.

Carnegie Mellon University
Office of International Education
5000 Forbes Ave, Cyert Hall, Suite 101
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
www.cmu.edu/oie