Carnegie Mellon University

Feb. 17, 2023

Greetings, Students & Scholars!

February might be the shortest month of the year, but it's also the month you can experience summer and winter weather all in 24 hours! If you're feeling a little down with changeable weather, check out this week's lineup of events, which are sure to brighten your days! We hope you enjoy this issue of the OIE "Friday Greetings" email.


OIE & CMU News & Events

CMU OIE & CPDC Employment Authorization Overview

Are you a new international student in the U.S.? This presentation is for you! On Wednesday, Feb. 22, from 12 to 1 p.m., join OIE and CPDC staff to learn the basics of employment authorization. This presentation will cover a variety of topics, including what employment authorization is and when you need it. J-1 and F-1 students can learn what is needed to work on and off campus during their time at CMU. We will also cover the basics of OPT, STEM OPT Extension, and Cap-Gap Extension and learn to identify the difference between employment and volunteering. Register in advance for this session.

Learning to Thrive as BIPOC Students at CMU

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You are not alone. Every Thursday at 12 p.m., you can join fellow BIPOC Tartans (Black, Indigenous and people of color from both US and international backgrounds) for this unique lunch series. Being directly impacted by racism, discrimination, and/or systematic oppression can feel like an added pressure you have to deal with on top of the stress of being a student. If you are feeling that way, know you are not alone. Join the CaPS team for a restorative lunch series to understand how racial and ethnic discrimination impacts your mind, body, and feelings and find ways to work through them in a supportive and healing space. A brief pre-group orientation is required; please contact Dr. Mengchun Chiang for more information.

International Student Support Group

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We are all stronger in a community. On Wednesdays, from 3:30 to 4:40 p.m., join the International Student Support Group. This group is for students who identify with an international background and are interested in seeking support within the context of community. Adjusting to a new cultural environment, school, and status can be exciting and stressful. This support group offers a safe and supportive space where international students can connect and share their success, difficulties, and growth as they navigate CMU, Pittsburgh, and the United States. A brief pre-group orientation is required. Learn more about the group.

Substance Use Harm Reduction Network Office Hours

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Every Friday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., feel free to stop by the Substance Use Harm Reduction Network (SUHN) during open office hours. This is CMU's umbrella community for substance use supporters. SUHN aims to support the Collegiate Recovery Community and those with loved ones affected by Substance Use Disorder. They are also a resource to learn about harm reduction tools, support, and advocacy for and with people who use drugs. During these open office hours, you're invited to SUHN to build leadership, provide input & direction, and connect to resources. SUHN is located in the Health Promotion office (1060 Morewood Avenue - D Tower), and the entrance is behind the shuttle stop across from the Greek quad. Learn more about the program.

Rise Against Hunger

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Come join the CMU community as we all work towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #2: Zero Hunger. On Saturday, Feb. 18, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the CMU community will package 100,000 meals for distribution worldwide. This event is open to partners, families, and children as young as 4. Rise Against Hunger will be a fun, high energy, and rewarding experience. Please register in advance.

Connect with us on Social Media

Join us on Twitter! Follow us on Twitter to stay up to date with the latest announcements and all things OIE related. 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

The Epic Story of Basketball's Forgotten Era with Claude Johnson

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On Friday, Feb. 17, at 5:30 p.m., hear about the epic story of basketball's forgotten era with Claude Johnson. Discover the lesser-known history of Black basketball's trailblazing teams, players, and coaches at the History Center's ninth annual Black History Month lecture. This is a free in-person event, but advance registration is required.

Pittsburgh International Auto Show

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Start your engines for the Pittsburgh International Auto Show! This annual event features a wide selection of cars from around the world, with fun interactive exhibits for the whole family. The Auto Show runs from Feb. 17 to 20, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday. More information is available, and tickets can be purchased in advance.

Arcade Comedy Theater Bracket Night

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On Friday, Feb. 17, at 8 p.m., watch Arcade Comedy Theater's Bracket Night, an interactive comedy game show. Bracket Night @ Arcade returns for a monthly interactive game show where the audience and panelists get to decide the best stuff. Six comedians duke it out each month in a battle of opinions as pop culture, food, and other stuff move through a competitive bracket. You're in on the act too, as the audience votes from their seats until a winner is determined! Learn more and purchase tickets in advance.

The Collaboration Festival

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On Saturday, Feb. 18, check out two special public performances of the Collaboration Festival program! This dynamic performance follows the journey of a solo artist who learns about the power of collaboration and community. As they prepare for The Festival, the artist begins to feel that "something is missing." Luckily, they encounter other artists with the skills and knowledge needed to create a truly collaborative and thrilling performance for The Festival. This performance engages the audience with a variety of opportunities for interaction throughout and features professional African American artists from the Pittsburgh region. All ages are welcome! Learn more and purchase tickets in advance.


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