May 3, 2021
Support for our international students
Submitted by Richard Myers and Thomas Lane
Dear students,
K-State has been closely watching the situation in locations around the world currently experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths, such as parts of Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Central and South America. Our heart goes out to our international students who may be experiencing stress or anxiety about how the pandemic may be affecting their home country. We see our students trying to finish strong this spring semester while they are understandably worried about their loved ones' health and safety, and we wanted to make sure you were aware of supportive university and community resources.
- Counseling Services will be offering counselor-facilitated drop-in support times that will provide a space to process with other international students concerns you may have about dealing with COVID while away from home and discuss potential coping skills.
- Virtual offerings will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays, May 3 and May 10; and 2-5 p.m. Thursday, May 6, and Wednesday, May 12, via Zoom
- In-person offerings will take place from 8-10 a.m. Wednesday, May 5; 8-11 a.m. Wednesday, May 12; and 8–11 a.m. Fridays, May 7, and May 14, in the Kramer Dining Center Tallgrass Room.
- We may have additional offerings as the weeks progress, please check the Counseling Services website for updates.
- Additionally, individual counseling sessions are available by contacting Counseling Services at 785-532-6927.
- Housing and Dining Services will be offering emergency housing at the end of the semester for international students whose travel plans are altered by COVID-19. The reduced rate is $22.85 daily with an additional $7 per day for meals, if requested. Students who need this assistance should contact Housing and Dining at 785-532-6453 or email housing@k-state.edu.
- International students with financial concerns should reach out to the Office of Student Financial Assistance to discuss their individual situation. Please also be aware of the university's Emergency Referral Application and the K-State Proud Student Opportunity Award application.
We also want to remind all students about the importance of getting vaccinated to help stop the spread of COVID-19. While Lafene Health Center will be concluding their vaccination clinics as the semester ends, we encourage any student who has not been vaccinated to contact Riley County Health Department to schedule an appointment. The county is conducting vaccine clinics multiple times per week that students may participate in. They will have an ample supply of vaccine, potentially including the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which has been approved for use again.
As always, please know International Student and Scholar Services and the Office of Student Life are resources for you when experiencing any barrier to your success. Your well-being is important to us and we encourage you to reach out for care and assistance from your K-State family. Wishing you a strong finish to your semester and safe travels this summer.
Sincerely,
Richard B. Myers
President
Thomas Lane
Vice president for student life and dean of students