Last Updated 08/21/2015
Navigating Your Graduate School Experience
American University and the School of International Service offer a range of services and opportunities that can help you make the most of your experience in a graduate
program. Below you will find a sampling of important individuals, offices and organizations that can contribute to your success as a student and a professional.
ACADEMIC
RESOURCES
PROGRAM
RESOURCES
BEYOND-THE-CLASSROOM
RESOURCES
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
RESOURCES
Academic Advisors
Program Coordinators
Office of Merit Awards
SIS Career Advising
•
•
•
•
Advise on overall program of study
Assist with course selection
Explain graduation requirements
Serve as resource guide/University
navigator
• Help students make connections between
academic and professional goals
www.american.edu/sis/gradadvising
• Connect you with faculty who share your
interests
• Expose you to extra-/co-curricular
opportunities
• Act as a resource during your transition
back to school
• Provides information to students through
a national directory of scholarships
• Works with students through
competitive processes for Fulbrights,
Boren Fellowships and other awards
• Includes staff dedicated to SIS Graduate
students
• Offers self-assessment tools, resume
review and interview prep
• Available via walk-in hours, workshops,
and networking events
www.american.edu/careercenter/meritaw
ards/index.cfm
www.american.edu/careercenter
SIS Office of International Programs
Faculty
• Hold office hours where you can explore
your path in the field
• Speak at events on campus and in D.C.
related to their areas of expertise
• Provide intellectual guidance and
professional support
International Student & Scholar
Services Office (ISSS)
Skills Institutes
• Provides information on study abroad
programs
• Guides students participating in dual
degree and exchange programs with
international partners
• Offers international internship
placements
Check your program’s homepage for
Program Coordinator contact information.
• Provides information and support for
international students
• Offers community building programs for
international students to engage with
each other and with American students
• Intensive 2-3 day workshops designed to
introduce students to professional skills
relevant to careers in international
affairs.
www.american.edu/sis/skillsinstitutes
The Center for Teaching, Research and
Learning (CTRL) Lab
www.american.edu/sis/sisabroad/Index.cfm www.american.edu/sis/faculty/
www.american.edu/ocl/isss/
• Provides students with the tools needed
for research and learning.
www.american.edu/ctrl/index.cfm
Library
Program’s Student Organization
Academic Support Center
Student Organizations
• Offers classes and workshops on a range
of research skills
• Provides assistance through online chat
function
• Includes social science research expert
available for one-on-one appointments
• Houses the Graduate Resource Center
www.american.edu/library/
• Provides students opportunities to take
on leadership roles, initiate projects and
build community.
• Offers academic skills workshops,
individual appointments, peer tutoring
and academic writing assistance.
• Office of Disability Support Services:
Ensures that students with disabilities
have equal access to university services
and programs
www.american.edu/ocl/asac/
• Gain practical experience by getting
involved with organizations like AU
Negotiation Project, etc.
Check your program’s homepage for
program-specific organizations
www.american.edu/sis/resources/index.cfm
• SIS Graduate Student Council: promote
the interests of SIS graduate students
through advocacy and programming
www.american.edu/sis/graduatestudentcouncil/in
dex.cfm
Other Resources:
AUCentral (Financial Aid, Student Accounts):
www.american.edu/aucentral
Graduate Academic Regulations:
www.american.edu/provost/grad/2015-grad-academic-regs.cfm
Health / Wellness / Counseling Resources:
www.american.edu/ocl/dos/Health-and-Wellness.cfm
Office of Graduate Studies Useful Links for New Students:
www.american.edu/provost/grad/continuing-students.cfm
AU CONTACTS AT A GLANCE
University Main Number 202-885-1000
Emergency Closings
202-885-1100
Public Safety Emergency
202-885-3636
Public Safety Non-Emergency 202-885-2527
SCHOOL OF INTERNATIONAL SERVICE
Deans Office
202-885-1603
sisdeansoffice@american.edu
SIS Office of International
202-885-1606
sisabroad@american.edu
Programs
SIS Hub
202-885-6101
sishub@american.edu
SIS Graduate Student
202-885-2699
ausisgsc@gmail.com
Council
SIS Career Advising
202-885-1804
siscareeradvising@american.edu
John Charles
charles@american.edu
Marc St. Hilaire
marcsth@american.edu
Graduate Advising
202-885-1690
sisgradadvising@american.edu
Marley Crutcher, Director
crutcher@american.edu
Natural Resources and Sustainable Development
Mike Rosenberger, Assistant Director
rosenber@american.edu
Global Governance, Politics & Security
Ethics Peace and Global Affairs
PhD
Mary Barton
mbarton@american.edu
Master of International Service
Social Enterprise
International Development/Development Management
Annie Belott
abelott@american.edu
International Peace & Conflict Resolution
Intercultural and International Communication/
International Media
Kaitlin Capobianco
capobian@american.edu
JD/MA
U.S. Foreign Policy and National Security
Marisa Rivero
mrivero@american.edu
Comparative & Regional Studies
Global Environmental Politics
International Economic Relations/International Economics
SIS 100
SIS 112
SIS 116
SIS T4
Butler 5th Floor
SIS 250
MA PROGRAM DIRECTORS & COORDINATORS
Comparative & Regional Studies
Director
Dr. Jessica Trisko Darden
Coordinator
Marianne Menius
Ethics, Peace & Global Affairs
Director
Dr. Jeff Bachman
Coordinator
Griff Ashooh
Global Environmental Politics
Director
Dr. Simon Nicholson
Coordinator
Carolyn Turkaly
trisko@american.edu
crs@american.edu
bachman@american.edu
epga@american.edu
simon.nicholson@american.edu
gep@american.edu
SIS 335A
SIS 335B
SIS 213
SIS 220 Lounge
SIS 303
SIS 312
Global Governance, Politics & Security
Director
Dr. Mike Schroeder
schroede@american.edu
Coordinator
Morgan Seiler
ggps@american.edu
Intercultural and International Communication and International Media
Director
Dr. Amanda Taylor
ataylor@american.edu
Coordinator
Karen Ives
icsis@american.edu
International Development and Development Management
Director
Dr. Louis Goodman
goodman@american.edu
Coordinator
Emilie Cooper
idpsis@american.edu
International Economic Relations and International Economics
Director
Dr. Arturo Porzecanski
aporzeca@american.edu
Coordinator
Cameron Noël
ier@american.edu
International Peace & Conflict Resolution
Director
Dr. Anthony Wanis-St. John
wanis@american.edu
Coordinator
Nicole Smith
peace@american.edu
Master of International Service
Director
Dr. Claudia Hofmann
hofmann@american.edu
Coordinator
Brandy Pech
mis@american.edu
Natural Resources & Sustainable Development
Director
Dr. Judy Shapiro
shapiro@american.edu
Coordinator
Carolyn Turkaly
gep@american.edu
Social Enterprise
Director
Dr. Robert Tomasko
tomasko@american.edu
Coordinator
Griff Ashooh
socialenterprise@american.edu
U.S. Foreign Policy and National Security
Director
Dr. Shoon Murray
smurray@american.edu
Coordinator
Sarah Riley
usfp@american.edu
SIS 331A
SIS 331B
SIS 235A
SIS 235B
SIS 228A
SIS 228B
SIS 220
SIS 331B
SIS 206
SIS 235B
SIS 248
SIS 214
SIS 308
SIS 312
SIS 222
SIS 220 Lounge
SIS 307
SIS 312
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Financial Aid
Merit Awards
Student Accounts
202-885-8000
202-885-1854
202-885-8000
financialaid@american.edu
Asbury 201
meritawards@american.edu Letts Lower Level 6
aucentral@american.edu
Asbury 201
HEALTH AND FITNESS
Counseling Center
Wellness Center
Student Health Center
Cassell Fitness Center
Jacobs Fitness Center
202-885-3500
202-885-3276
202-885-3380
202-885-6655
202-885-6267
www.american.edu/ocl/counseling/ MGC 214
www.american.edu/ocl/wellness/ McCabe 123
shc@american.edu
McCabe 1st Floor
recfitness@american.edu
Cassell Hall
recfitness@american.edu
Bender Arena
RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY
Bender Library
202-885-3232
Blackboard Support
202-885-3904
Campus Bookstore
202-885-6300
OIT Help Line
202-885-2550
CTRL (Center for Teaching, 202-885-2117
Research & Learning)
http://www.american.edu/library Bender Library
blackboard@american.edu
Bender 321
american@bkstr.com
Butler 3
helpdesk@american.edu
-CTRL@american.edu
Hurst 214
FACILITIES
AU One Card Office
Parking and Traffic
202-885-3775
202-885-3111
idcards@american.edu
parking@american.edu
Anderson 1st Floor
Letts Lower Level 1
OTHER RESOURCES
ISSS (International Student
& Scholar Services)
Writing Center
CLEAR (Center for
Language Exploration,
Acquisition & Research)
202-885-3350
isss@american.edu
202-885-2991
202-885-2357
wcenter@american.edu
clear@american.edu
Butler 410
Bender Library
Asbury Hall B36
8/28/2015
Welcome to the School of
International Service
Role of Graduate Academic Advisor
o Assist with course selection
o Explain graduation requirements and academic
STRATEGIC
ADVISING
regulations
o Advise on overall program of study, including integrating
academic and professional goals and planning
o Serve as resource guide/University “navigator”
•
Referrals to other campus offices
•
Suggest relevant faculty and opportunities
Graduate Advising Website
Accessing your Advising Resources
o SIS Graduate Advising website:
www.american.edu/sis/gradadvising
o Weekly Bulletin
o Express Advising (phone, in-person)
o Appointments (phone, in-person, skype)
o Email
o sisgradadvising@american.edu; 202-885-1690
Key Academic Regulations
Your Role as a Professional Graduate Student
o Take a proactive approach to your academic and
professional goals while at SIS
o Be your own advocate
•
•
•
Ask questions
Build relationships with faculty
Use campus resources
o Continuous Enrollment/Temporary Leave
o
Students must maintain enrollment each semester (excluding
Summer) until graduation
o
Students who do not maintain enrollment will be
automatically separated from the University and will need to
reapply to their degree program
o
If you anticipate being away from school for a semester, please
notify your advisor in advance of the start of the semester to
arrange for a temporary leave
o Work collaboratively with your academic advisor
•
Seek assistance early
o Accountability and timeliness
•
•
•
Be attentive to deadlines
Be aware of degree requirements and Academic Regulations
Filter and prioritize information, including listserv messages
1
8/28/2015
Key Academic Regulations
o Good Academic Standing/Satisfactory Academic
Progress
o
o
o
o
Key Academic Regulations
o A-F v. Pass/Fail Grades
o
In addition to maintaining continuous enrollment, graduate
students must maintain at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA
Graduate students must also receive credit in at least twothirds of all attempted courses. Withdrawals from courses
with a grade of ‘W’ count as attempted courses
Graduate students must complete all degree requirements no
later than 6 years from the first date of enrollment
Students who fail to make satisfactory academic progress will
be given an academic warning or placed on academic
probation
o
o Transfer Credits
o
o
o
Academic Requirements
o Required Courses
o
o
o
Theory/Core
Methodology
Economics
o Concentrations
o
o
o
Practicum
SRP
Thesis
Tool of Research (TOR) MA Language Requirement
o MA students must demonstrate that they have non-
Graduate students may apply to transfer up to 6 credits of
graduate coursework towards their MA program
Transfer requests must be completed during a student’s first
semester and require program director approval, syllabi and
original transcripts
Additional information available on Course Transfer Approval
form (located on Forms page of Grad Advising website)
Professional Experience Requirement
o MA students must demonstrate that they have
professional experience relevant to their MA program
o Can be satisfied by one of the following:
•
Internship during the MA program
• Must be registered at beginning of semester in which internship is
completed; zero/no-credit or academic credit
•
Prior Internship (within 2 years of admission)
•
Job, Current or Prior (within 2 years of admission)
o Elective
o Capstone
Graduate students must take all courses counting towards
their academic program for the letter grade (A-F) option.
Excepti0ns include Skills Institutes and non-credit internship
(must be P/F)
Additional information available on the SIS Graduate Advising website
Important Fall 2015 Dates
o Friday, Aug 28 Last day to initially register without a late fee
English language reading skills at or above the
intermediate level
o Language skills can be demonstrated by
o Aug 31– Sept 18 Add/Drop Express Advising, booked at:
Passing the Tool of Research exam at the Center for Language
Exploration, Acquisition and Research on campus
• Fall Dates: Sept 28-Oct 2; Nov 16-20
• A BA major in a non-English language (completed within three years
of matriculation into the MA)
• For other options see Grad Advising website or discuss with your
advisor
o Optional TOR exam for new students on Friday (can sign up through
today online at: http://www.american.edu/cas/clear/tor.cfm)
o Monday, Sept 21 Advising appointments resume, booked at:
•
https://sisgraduateadvising-expressadvising.youcanbook.me/
o Monday, Sept 14 Last day to make changes to fall schedule
with no financial penalty; Beginning of withdrawal period
https://sisgraduateadvising.youcanbook.me/
o Oct 16 Midterm - Last day to withdraw from a course or
change grade-type
o Oct 26 Spring 2016 Registration begins
o Advisors will hold Express Advising for advance registration
o Students do not have to meet with advisors before registering
o New Registration System
2
Language Resources
This resource guide is designed for SIS graduate students who need to improve their language skills to
fulfill the Tool of Research language requirement and/or for students who wish to further develop their
language skills for professional development.
On-Campus:
Center for Language Exploration, Acquisition & Research (CLEAR)
Located in Asbury Hall at AU, CLEAR has multiple spaces integrated with multimedia and computer
equipment to facilitate technology-enhanced language instruction, and the hosting of language-related
events. In addition to administering the Tool of Research exam, CLEAR offers coaching in the following
languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian,
and Spanish.
Phone: 202-885-2357
Email: clear@american.edu
Web: http://www.american.edu/cas/clear/
Location: Asbury Hall, North Wing - Lower Level, Room B36
Graduate Audits of Foreign Language Courses
Current graduate students in good academic standing at American University are permitted to audit AU
foreign language classes for a substantially discounted rate in order to support their development of
research related to their chosen program of study. Please note this program will be discontinued
effective Summer 2016. Audits earn no academic credit and may not be used as a substitute for a Tool
of Research examination or to fulfill any degree requirement. Interested students must follow the
registration process found at: http://www.american.edu/sis/gradadvising/upload/Fall-2015-GraduateLanguage-Audit-Registration-Process.pdf. Students should not register themselves online for
undergraduate language courses. Doing so will result in full tuition charges.
Global Languages Network
AU has partnered with The Global Language Network (GLN) in previous semesters to offer reduced-cost
language classes on AU’s campus. These classes are independently run by GLN and are not being offered
as AU courses. GLN courses earn no academic credit and may not be used as a substitute for a Tool of
Research examination or to fulfill any degree requirement. Visit the GLN website for more information,
including fees and how to register.
Web: http://thegln.org
Language Exchange Program
International Student Scholar Services (ISSS) runs the language exchange program, which matches AU
students who want to practice their language skills. Language partners meet on AU’s campus at least
once a week to practice. ISSS matches partners and accepts all applications.
Web: http://www.american.edu/ocl/isss/LEP.cfm
Abroad:
Critical Language Scholarship
The U.S. Department of State's Critical Language Scholarships provide funding for intensive overseas
study of "critical need" languages, including Arabic, Azerbaijani, Bangla/Bengali, Chinese, Hindi,
Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Punjabi, Russian, Turkish, and Urdu. Critical Language
Scholarships will provide funding for students to participate in beginning, intermediate and/or advanced
level summer language programs at American Overseas Research Centers and affiliated partners. All
program costs are covered for participants. All applicants must be U.S. citizens. The application deadline
is in early to mid-November.
Please contact the Office of Merit Awards at 202-855-1854 for the dates and times of
information sessions, or e-mail meritawards@american.edu to be added to the Critical
Language Scholarship Blackboard site.
Web: http://www.clscholarship.org/
Boren Graduate Fellowship
The Boren Graduate Fellowship supports students pursuing the study of languages, cultures, and world
regions that are critical to US interests. Most students use a Boren Graduate Fellowship to fund
international study of a foreign language within a country or region. The Fellowship excludes the
countries of Western Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. The
university deadline for this award is in late January, but students begin the application process in the fall
semester. Counselors in the Office of Merit Awards work closely with applicants throughout the
application process.
Please contact the Office of Merit Awards at 202-885-1854 to learn about additional campus
deadlines and to schedule an appointment with a Merit Awards advisor. Also, e-mail
meritawards@american.edu to be added to the Boren Graduate Fellowship Blackboard site.
Web: https://www.borenawards.org/
DC Metro Area:
Tenley-Friendship DC Public Library
DC Public Libraries offer Powerspeak Languages, a free, online language-learning program, accessible
using your D.C. public library card. Language lessons available include: Spanish, French, German,
Mandarin, and English. Tenley-Friendship Library also offers free ASL instruction.
Phone: 202-727-1488
Web: http://www.dclibrary.org/tenley
Location:
4450 Wisconsin Ave NW
Washington, DC 20016
Other Resources
Below are some local schools and institutions where SIS graduate students have taken language courses.
(This list is not intended to be comprehensive nor serve as an endorsement.)
Alliance Francaise: http://www.francedc.org/
Goethe-Institut: http://www.goethe.de/ins/us/was/enindex.htm?wt_sc=washington
Middle East Institute: http://www.mei.edu/
Spanish Now: http://www.gospanishnow.com/
Graduate School USA: http://graduateschool.edu/
Last updated 8/28/15
Within SIS, the Office of International Programs (OIP) seeks to develop and
enhance the international opportunities available to the SIS community through meaningful programs and partnerships. On average, the OIP sends close to 300 graduate students abroad each year and hosts around 25 international students on campus through
its institutional partnerships. SIS actively pursues new programs and partnerships
abroad that will meet the needs of our diverse and highly motivated graduate student
population. Below is a current list of our programs:
Semester Programs
Germany: Freie Universität Berlin
Costa Rica: UN University for Peace
Russia: St. Petersburg State University
New Zealand: Victoria University of Wellington
Colombia: Pontificia Universidad Javeriana
Egypt: The American University in Cairo
Switzerland: The Graduate Institute
Peru: Peruvian Diplomatic Academy
France: Sciences Po
China: Peking University
Japan: Ritsumeikan University
Canada: University of Toronto
Norway: University of Life Sciences
Turkey: Koç University
South Korea: Korea University
Dual Degree Programs
South Korea: Korea University
Costa Rica: UN University for Peace
Japan: Ritsumeikan University
Short-term Programs — Sample List —
Malaysia/ Indonesia: ASEAN Studies - Globalization, Governance and Security in S.E. Asia
Switzerland: The Graduate Institute - WTO, International Trade and Development
Georgia: Geopolitics and Security- Case of the Black Sea Caspian Region
South Africa: Democracy and Development in South Africa
Kenya Practicum: Leadership Development, Program Design and Assessment in Int’l Ed
Brazil Practicum: Forests and Livelihoods- Rural Development in Brazil
Israel Practicum: Water, Cooperation and Peace in the Middle East
How To Plan For Your Study Abroad:
1. Review the below website for information on all international opportunities.
2. Contact OIP to schedule an appointment or ask specific questions.
3. Meet with your Academic Advisor to fit your study abroad goals into your degree plan.
Short-term Programs:
Matt Sacco, Director of Int’l Programs – sacco@american.edu
Semester Abroad & Dual Degree Programs:
Melissa Chapman, Int’l Programs Manager – mchapman@american.edu
General Inquiries: sisabroad@american.edu
www.american.edu/sis/sisabroad
2015 SCHOOL OF INTERNATIONAL SERVICE
GRADUATE ORIENTATION SCHEDULE
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27TH
TIME
8:30 to
9:00 AM
9:00 to
10:15 AM
10:30 to
11:30 AM
11:30 AM
11:45 AM to
1:00 PM
1:15 to
2:00 PM
SESSION
Registration:
Comparative and Regional Studies; JD/MA; U.S. Foreign Policy and
National Security; Exchange Students
Global Governance, Politics, and Security; Intercultural and
International Communication/International Media; International
Economic Relations/International Economics
International Development/Development Management; Global
Environmental Politics/Natural Resources and Sustainable Dev.
Ethics, Peace, and Global Affairs; International Peace and
Conflict Resolution; Social Enterprise
Master of International Service
Welcome:
JAMES GOLDGEIER, Dean, School of International Service
MICHAEL KEYNES, Associate Dean, Office of Graduate Studies, AU
LUCAS OLSON, President, SIS Graduate Student Council
Keynote:
PAUL WILLIAMS, Professor, School of International Service
Career Advising for Entry-Level Professionals (See descriptions on page 3)
Career Advising for Mid-Career Professionals and Career Transitions
Break and lunch pick-up
Luncheon with Program Directors and Faculty:
Comparative and Regional Studies
Ethics, Peace, and Global Affairs
Global Environmental Politics
Global Governance, Politics, and Security
Intercultural and International Communication/International Media
International Development/Development Management
International Economic Relations/International Economics
International Peace and Conflict Resolution
Master of International Service
Natural Resources and Sustainable Development
Social Enterprise
U.S. Foreign Policy and National Security
*JD/MA and exchange students should attend the lunch of the program in
which they wish to concentrate.
Concurrent Session I (See descriptions on page 4):
Strategic Advising (mandatory):
Global Governance, Politics, and Security
Comparative and Regional Studies
Natural Resources and Sustainable Development
Social Enterprise
Other Options (optional):
Career Development Roadmap
Networking, Social Media, and Job Search
Study Abroad and Scholarship Opportunities
Library Orientation
AU Campus Tour
SIS Sustainability Tour
AU One Cards
1
LOCATION
Ward 102
Ward 103
Ward 104
Ward 105
SIS 355
Ward 1
Ward 1
Ward 2
Ward 5, 6
Ward 303
Ward 202
Ward 205
Ward 106
Ward 204
Ward 104
Ward 101
Ward 4
SIS 355
Ward 205
Ward 203
Ward 302
Ward 4
Ward 5
Ward 101
Ward 203
Ward 104
Ward 106
Ward 6
Bender Library
Ward Steps
SIS Atrium
McDowell 1st Fl
2:15 to
3:00 PM
3:15 to
4:00 PM
4:15 to
5:00 PM
5:00 to
6:30 PM
Concurrent Session II (See descriptions on page 4):
Strategic Advising (mandatory):
Ethics, Peace, and Global Affairs
Global Environmental Politics
Intercultural and International Communication/International Media
International Development
U.S. Foreign Policy and National Security
Other Options (optional):
Career Development Roadmap
Networking, Social Media, and Job Search
Study Abroad and Scholarship Opportunities
Library Orientation
AU Campus Tour
SIS Sustainability Tour
AU One Cards
Concurrent Session III (See descriptions on page 4):
Strategic Advising (mandatory):
International Peace and Conflict Resolution
International Economic Relations/International Economics
JD/MA
Development Management
Other Options (optional):
Career Development Roadmap
Networking, Social Media, and Job Search
Study Abroad and Scholarship Opportunities
Library Orientation
AU Campus Tour
SIS Sustainability Tour
AU One Cards
Faculty Chats (see Faculty Chats handout for session descriptions):
Careers in National Security: Two Perspectives
Presented by LT. GEN (RET) DAVID BARNO & DR. NORA BENSAHEL
Behind the Scenes in Field Research
Presented by DR. EVE BRATMAN
The Environment, Peace, and Conflict
Presented by DR. KEN CONCA
Russia, the U.S., and the Crisis in Ukraine
Presented by DR. KEITH TRISKO DARDEN
Peace Practice: New Directions
Presented by DR. HRACH GREGORIAN
Managing Risks and Opportunities
Presented by DR. FRUZSINA HARSANYI
Professional Pathways and Development
Presented by DR. J. THOMAS MORIARTY II
Terrorism and Presidential War Power
Presented by DR. SHOON MURRAY
Challenges for American Diplomacy
Presented by AMB. ANTHONY QUAINTON
The Ebola Response in Sierra Leone
Presented by DR. SUSAN SHEPLER & DR. NINA YAMANIS
Welcome Reception
Information Fair
2
Ward 107
Ward 101
Ward 105
Ward 5
Ward 4
Ward 104
Ward 106
Ward 6
Bender Library
Ward Steps
SIS Atrium
McDowell 1st Fl
Ward 5
Ward 107
Ward 4
Ward 101
Ward 104
Ward 106
Ward 6
Bender Library
Ward Steps
SIS Atrium
McDowell 1st Fl
Ward 5
Ward 101
Ward 102
Ward 303
Ward 4
Ward 103
Ward 302
Ward 6
Ward 104
Ward 106
SIS Atrium
SIS 120
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28TH
Activities on Friday are supplemental in nature and attendance is optional.
Lunch is not provided on Friday. You are encouraged to visit one of the many dining options on or off campus.
TIME
SESSION
Varies by
advisor
9:00 to
10:30 AM
New Student Express Advising (see descriptions page 5)
(Students should pre-register for appointments on Thursday in SIS 250.)
Career Center drop-in sessions (see descriptions page 5)
Program drop-in sessions: Comparative and Regional Studies
Ethics, Peace, and Global Affairs
Global Environmental Politics
Global Governance, Politics, and Security
Intercultural and International Communication/International Media
International Development/Development Management
International Economic Relations/International Economics
International Peace and Conflict Resolution
Natural Resources and Sustainable Development
U.S. Foreign Policy and National Security
9:00 to Library Orientation (see descriptions page 5)
10:00 AM
9:30 to Graduate Research Assistant Orientation (see descriptions page 6)
10:30 AM (Research Assistants only)
10:00 to Library Orientation (see descriptions page 5)
11:00 AM
10:00 AM to Tool of Research Exam Session I (see descriptions page 6)
12:00 PM (Limit 20; students must pre-register online)
10:30 AM to Welcome Brunch for Students of Color and Allies (see descriptions page 6)
12:00 PM (See e-invitation or the NewSISGrads site for details. RSVP is required.)
11:30 AM to
5:00 PM
12:00 to
1:00 PM
1:00 to
3:00 PM
1:00 PM
3:30 PM
AU One Cards (see descriptions page 6)
SIS Graduate Student Council Office Hours (see descriptions page 6)
SIS Office of International Programs Office Hours
Tool of Research Exam Session II (see descriptions page 6)
(Limit 20; students must pre-register online)
SIS Opening Celebration (see descriptions page 6)
Strategic Advising: Master of International Service
LOCATION
SIS 250
Butler 5
SIS 335
SIS 213
Outside SIS 300
SIS 331
SIS 235
SIS 228
SIS 331
Outside SIS 214
Outside SIS 300
Outside SIS 314
Bender Library
SIS 102
Bender Library
SIS 355
SIS Abramson
Family Founders
Room
McDowell 1st Fl
SIS Terrace 4
SIS 112
SIS 355
SIS Atrium
SIS 300
SESSION DESCRIPTIONS
THURSDAY MORNING – CAREER ADVISING SESSIONS
Career Advising for Entry-Level Professionals
This session is aimed at students who have recently graduated from an undergraduate program and/or have
limited professional experience (0-4 years).
Students will learn:
 The important questions to ask themselves in assessing their career interests and relevant skills
 Specific types of SIS career advising, online tools, and programming that support building industry
and employer knowledge in international affairs
 Learn the first steps they can take to begin on their professional path in Washington, DC
3
Career Advising for Mid-Career Professionals and Career Transitions
This session is aimed at students with several years (at least 5 years) of professional experience in any field.
Students will learn:
 Career development strategies that will assess previous work experiences, highlight relevant skills,
and refine career interests
 Specific types of SIS career advising, online tools, and programming that will support making
successful career and mid-level industry transitions
 First steps they can take to either advance in their current industry or leverage previous work
experiences toward a new professional phase in their careers
THURSDAY AFTERNOON – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Please schedule your other concurrent sessions around your program’s Strategic Advising session.
Strategic Advising: Maximizing the Next Two Years
This session is mandatory, so please schedule your other concurrent sessions around your program’s Strategic Advising session.
Meet with your academic advisor to learn about program requirements, academic advising and resources, and
planning strategically to make the most of your time at SIS.
Career Development Roadmap
This session will cover strategies for creating a career development plan to assist students in maximizing
opportunities as SIS graduate students. Participants will leave with concrete tools for assessing their career
interests, professional strengths, as well as areas for further development.
Students will learn:
 Specific ways to create a career development plan that merges academic and career interests
 Approaches to assessing their career-related strengths and weaknesses
 Formal and informal tools and exercises for identifying career interests
Study Abroad and Scholarship Opportunities
The SIS Office of International Programs and the Office of Merit Awards will outline opportunities for
enhancing your SIS degree through abroad experiences and/or nationally competitive scholarships and
fellowships (these competitions are restricted to US citizens only).
Library Orientation
AU Librarian Clement Ho will lead sessions at 1:15, 2:15, and 3:15 PM. Please check in at the Bender Library
front desk.
Networking, Social Media, and Job Search
This session will cover effective ways of networking in DC and how social media can be leveraged to connect
with professionals, market your skills, and gain industry insights. Topics will include informational
interviewing, networking groups, and professional associations. Particular attention will be paid to tools such
as LinkedIn.
Students will learn:
 Effective ways of networking in-person and virtually
 Use of social media tools (i.e. LinkedIn, Twitter) for information gathering, how to market their
skills, and how to connect with industry professionals
 The purpose and etiquette of informational interviews
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
SIS-specific social media tools for connecting students to alumni, industry insights, and
job/internship opportunities
AU Campus Tour
Meet on the steps of the Ward Circle Building facing the Quad. Tours depart at 1:15, 2:15, and 3:15 PM.
SIS Sustainability Tour
Staff from AU's Office of Sustainability will present the innovative ways that the SIS Building, as a LEED
Gold-certified building, conserves energy, water, and other resources while creating a healthy and productive
learning environment. Meet at the main doors opening to the SIS Atrium. Tours depart at 1:15, 2:15, and 3:15
PM.
AU One Cards
Pick up your AU ID card from the One Card Office on the first floor of McDowell Hall. All new cardholders
must present a current government-issued photo ID (e.g. driver’s license, passport) in order to receive their
card. Students who uploaded their ID photo through the myAU Portal prior to August 12th will receive their
ID cards during Thursday morning registration.
THURSDAY AFTERNOON – SESSIONS
Faculty Chats
SIS faculty will present on various topics including their research, career pathways, trends in international
affairs, and how students can best use their time in the program. The Chats provide students with an
opportunity to get a feel for what to expect from their classes, how their studies will apply to their
professional lives, and to utilize the resources of faculty. Please see the Faculty Chats handout for specific
Chat descriptions.
Welcome Reception and Information Fair
Join faculty, fellow students, and staff for light refreshments and conversation. Various offices on campus will
be available to answer questions regarding university programming and resources available to graduate
students including the Office of Financial Aid, Wellness Center, and the Academic Support Center along with
many others.
FRIDAY SESSIONS
New Student Express Advising
Students can meet with their academic advisors to discuss immediate questions related to Fall registration.
Express Advising meetings are limited to 15 minutes in length and students should preregister on Thursday in
SIS 250.
Career Center Drop-in Sessions
Learn more about the resources offered at the Career Center with brief one-on-one sessions with SIS Career
Advisors.
Program Drop-in Sessions
Learn more about programs and resources available at the school through informal discussions with Program
Directors, Coordinators, and faculty.
Library Orientation
AU Librarian Clement Ho will lead sessions at 9:00 and 10:00 AM on Friday. Please check in at the Bender
Library front desk.
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Graduate Research Assistant Orientation
Incoming graduate students with a work assignment as part of their financial aid package will complete hiring
paperwork and will have an opportunity to ask any questions they have about their research or teaching
assistantship. Those who should attend this session will have received an email from Jennifer Napolitano
with instructions on paperwork and documentation to bring.
Tool of Research Exam
Students will have an opportunity to take the Tool of Research (TOR) language exam on Friday to fulfill their
MA language requirement. Students wishing to take the early exam must register in advance for their
preferred exam time (10:00 AM or 1:00 PM) via the Center for Language Exploration, Acquisition and
Research (CLEAR) website at http://www.american.edu/cas/clear/tor.
Students of Color and Allies Welcome Brunch
This event will provide an informal opportunity for new students of color to interact with faculty, staff, and
student leaders in the SIS community. Students will also have a chance to meet fellow new students of color
across SIS programs and those who consider themselves allies in the SIS mission of building an increasingly
inclusive community. Please join for some or the entire event, as your schedule allows. RSVP required.
Office of International Programs Office Hours
Learn more about international study programs and opportunities through informal discussions with staff
from the SIS Office of International Programs.
Graduate Student Council Office Hours
Students will have an opportunity to meet graduate student leaders and learn more about the programming of
the Graduate Student Council as well as opportunities for involvement.
SIS Opening Celebration
Join this school-wide event with faculty, fellow students, and staff to celebrate the start of the academic year
while enjoying snacks and SIS giveaways.
AU One Cards
Pick up your AU ID card from the One Card Office on the first floor of McDowell Hall. All new cardholders
must present a current government-issued photo ID (e.g. driver’s license, passport) in order to receive their
card. Students who uploaded their ID photo through the myAU Portal prior to August 12th will receive their
ID cards during Thursday morning registration. Those who uploaded photos by the deadline, but did not
receive their ID card during Thursday’s registration should go to the AU One Card office on to pick it up.
FOOD OPTIONS NEAR AMERICAN UNIVERSITY
Please note lunch is provided in the Ward Circle Building on Thursday, but not on Friday.
ON CAMPUS
Bene Pizzeria
Davenport Coffee
Einstein Bros. Bagels
Elevation Burger
Freshii
Global Fresh
Mudbox Coffee
Starbucks
Subway
OFF CAMPUS
Mary Graydon Center
SIS Building
Mary Graydon Center
Mary Graydon Center
Mary Graydon Center
Mary Graydon Center
Bender Library
Butler Pavilion, Tunnel
Butler Pavilion, Tunnel
Al Dente
Chef Geoff’s
Shemali’s
Starbucks
Wagshal’s
6
3201 New Mexico Ave., NW
(Italian, sit-down)
3201 New Mexico Ave., NW
(American, sit-down)
3301 New Mexico Ave., NW
(Lebanese)
3301 New Mexico Ave., NW
3201 New Mexico Ave., NW
(sandwiches, salads, deli)
Main Campus
Tenley Campus
Future Home of Washington College of Law
Tenley
Circle
Mass Ave
Field
UNDER
CONSTRUCTION
Dunblane
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Wesley
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Nebraska
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President's
Building
Glover
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Woods - Brown
Amphitheater
Kogod
Ward Circle
Kay
Sports Center
4000 Brandywine Street
4200 Wisconsin Avenue
4620 Wisconsin Avenue
4545 42nd Street
4401 Connecticut Avenue
METRO
Vicinity Map
Bender Arena
Butler Pavilion
Reeves Field
Osborn
Ward Circle
Building
Pa
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Ga
ra
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Battelle-Tompkins
ts
Mary Graydon
Hannay
Gate
Eric Friedheim
Quadrangle
(MGC)
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(closed)
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Media
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Center
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Av
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Main Campus
4400 MASSACHUSETTS
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4200 Wisconsin
Avenue
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Van Ness
Ne
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4401
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ut A
Closed for Construction
Beginning 5/19/2014
SIS
Letts
Tenley Circle
Tenley Campus
4300 NEBRASKA AVENUE
ctic
Anderson
Washington
College of Law
Yuma
4801 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE
nne
Child
Development
Center
Nebraska Avenue
Parking Lot
Bender
Library
Centennial
Tenleytown/
AU Metro Station
Red Line
Co
William I Jacobs
Recreational Complex
(closed)
Ne
East Quad
4000 Brandywine Street
4545 42nd Street
as
Woods
Gate
Van Ness/UDC
Metro Station
Red Line