On January 5, 2026, the International Student Program (ISP) hosted another successful event at the Intercultural Center for the newly admitted international students, marking the start of Spring 2026.
Thanh Nguyen, Program Services Coordinator, started the event by greeting our students. This was followed by speeches from two representatives of our administrations: Dr. Nate Carter, Skyline College’s President, who sent us his welcoming video, and Saroj Quinn, Executive Director of International Education, who delivered a warm speech. In addition, more administrators were introduced: Will Minnich, Dean of Enrollment Services, and Chikako Walker, Director of International Education.
ISP staff were also introduced to the students, who are vital to their journey at Skyline College: Clair Yeo-Sugajski, Program Manager; Thanh Nguyen, Program Services Coordinator; and Carlos Romero, Academic Counselor. This was followed by brief introductions from the student ambassadors: Mabel Lynn, Zoe Mijares, and Ella Yoo.
After brief introductions, participants had the opportunity to walk around and meet their fellow international students through a BINGO game led by Zoe Mijares, an ISP Student Ambassador. Students were given a bingo sheet to mark with hobbies and characteristics, and they asked other students whether they shared the same traits—this filled the room with chatter and laughter. Two bingo winners received the ISP T-shirts as their prize.
Due to inclement weather, the program had to improvise the original campus tour/scavenger hunt plan and organize a virtual campus tour using resource videos that highlight the helpful areas Skyline College offers. Following the virtual tour was another fun game of Kahoot!, led by Mabel Lynn and Ella Yoo – ISP Student Ambassadors. Students learned about the F-1 visa and related immigration topics in a fun and interactive way. The top three winners received either T-shirts or pens as their prize.
After the activities, students were served Chinese food from Mr. Fong’s restaurant, and an Academic Health Plan representative, Kari Mendoza, delivered an important presentation on health insurance for international students. With her presentation, students were able to have their questions about health insurance and how to use it addressed and followed up.
At the end of the event, Chikako explained the Homestay Program for international students, providing practical information to help them adapt more effectively to life in the United States. Should students require housing, the Homestay Program would be a viable option. Students left the event with the knowledge of how to have a successful new semester and hopefully, new friends as well!
The International Student Program is part of the Enrollment Services & Support Programs Division. ISP will continue to provide services and programs for international students and the entire Skyline College community. If you are interested in learning more about future ISP programs and events, contact the ISP office at skyinternational@smccd.edu.
Article by Ella Yoo, Zoe Mijares, and Thanh Nguyen
Photos by Clair Yeo-Sugajski and Mabel Lynn
