Information for International Students

April 4, 2025

Dear International Students:

Recently several of you have reached out to express concerns about your immigration status as international students. We understand that these worries stem from reports about recent actions, which have impacted colleges and universities nationwide, as well as from rumors circulating within our community. We sincerely appreciate the trust you’ve placed in us by sharing your concerns about the uncertainties you are facing. The Office of Study Abroad and International Programs (SAIP), the Division of Student Affairs (DSA), and College leadership are closely monitoring developments and want to reaffirm our unwavering support and commitment to you during this time.

Many of you have asked for guidance on how to proceed. Since each situation is unique, we won’t provide generalized advice. However, there are a few key points we believe are important for you to be aware of and consider:

• We will continue to monitor local, state, and federal policies and guidelines very closely and ensure that relevant updates are communicated with you directly.
• We have been monitoring reports of possible travel bans and restrictions from specific countries and staff in SAIP and DSA are reaching out directly to students from countries that are reportedly at higher risk. Recent news reports indicate that the proposed travel ban has been delayed.
• Students who are planning to travel outside of the US this summer, including for study abroad, internships, or to return home, should consult with Todd Sasaki on your travel plans. Todd will not offer specific advice on your decision to travel but will provide resources and relevant information that may help you as you consider and plan your travels and return to Pitzer.
• Students who have specific questions about their F1 immigration status may qualify for a consultation with an immigration attorney at no cost or a reduced fee depending on financial need. If you are interested in this or learning about other legal resources, please contact Todd Sasaki or Tasmia Moosani.
• We are investigating housing options and support for a limited number of students who may need to remain in the country over the summer. We are still working through these details but please connect with Alayna Session-Goins or Tasmia Moosani regarding individual situations.
• Nationally, there have been some reports of individuals and AI bots posing as government officials to collect information and payment from international students. If you receive any outreach that seems out of the ordinary, do not engage and feel free to reach out to any of us and we can help you try to clarify or connect with experts if needed.

We understand that during uncertain times, being together and connecting with others can provide comfort and support. Starting next week and continuing throughout the rest of the semester, we invite all international students to join Todd, Tasmia, Grace and other members of the SAIP and DSA teams for casual conversations and snacks on Friday afternoons between 2:00 – 4:00 pm in the SAIP Conference Room in West Hall, Q100. This will also be an opportunity to complete your travel signatures if you have plans to travel during the summer.

Additionally, we want to acknowledge that this situation may provoke anxiety and stress. As such, Monsour Counseling will be on our campus April 9 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. (Broad Center, 207), April 15 from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. (Broad Center, 207) and April 18th from 1:00-2:00 p.m. to provide an opportunity for students to gather in community and provide emotional support.

Please feel free to pass this message along to your parents or family members who might have concerns about your current situation. As always, if you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. For any visa-related inquiries, please make sure to contact Todd Sasaki directly.

Sincerely,

Division of Student Affairs
Study Abroad and International Programs

Contact Information

Todd Sasaki, Office of Study Abroad and International Programs (todds@pitzer.edu) West Hall Q #105

Tasmia Moosani, Office of Student Affairs & Student Success Initiatives (tasmia_moosani@pitzer.edu) Mead Hall #107

Grace Castillo, Office of Student Affairs & Student Success Initiatives (grace_castillo@pitzer.edu) Scott Hall #122

Karey Fuhs, Office of Study Abroad & International Programs (kareyf@pitzer.edu) West Hall Q #102