Padnos International Center Responsibilities

Announce Guest to International Fellows: The PIC Office will announce to the International Faculty Fellows information about a guest, including opportunities for visiting lectures, classroom discussions, receptions etc. It is our hope that the International Fellows will also assist in some mild hosting (such as taking a visitor to dinner.)

Bank Account: PIC will work with Fifth Third Bank in Standale to assist J-1 Scholars in opening a bank account. Bank accounts may be opened without a social security number, but debit cards will not be issued until the Scholar has a social security number. Fifth Third Bank may be reached directly at: 771-5770.

DS-2019: This is the official immigration paperwork issued by Grand Valley State University on behalf of the United States Department of State. The Scholar is responsible to make sure that the paperwork is always current. Scholars will need to check in with the PIC in order to be properly processed. They should plan to bring their DS-2019, Passport, Visa, and I-94 with them for Check-In.

Housing: The PIC office will work with the Hosting Department and the Housing Office to identify appropriate space.

Immigration Advising: The PIC office will provide immigration advising to J-1 scholars. This includes information on maintaining status, accepting employment and authorizing any off-campus opportunity such as lectures

Insurance: J1 Scholars are required to have health insurance. If they cannot obtain a policy that meets the US Government Standards in their country, PIC will assist the Scholars in obtaining insurance. The cost for insurance is varies depending on the length of stay. This is reportable taxable income if it is provided by GVSU. There are occasions where it is appropriate for a department to pay for insurance for the Scholar. Please contact the PIC with any questions regarding insurance. The policy GVSU uses can be found at: www.isis-travelinsurance.com

Social Security Number (SSN): J1 Scholars are eligible to apply for a social security number. PIC will provide a letter from Grand Valley authorizing that the scholar's employment is at GVSU and pertinent to their purpose of stay. The Scholar will need to apply for a SSN in person at the Social Security Administration (located at 500 College Ave). PIC can assist with the actual application process if requested by the Department or Scholar.

Welcome Packet: The PIC office will provide a welcome packet for any J-1 Scholar. This will include a map of campus, schedule of the bus, Catalog of courses, an Admissions Viewbook, and a guide to shopping, doctors, dentists and hospitals.