Service Letter or Emotional Support Letter: What's the Difference?

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

12:00 PM – 12:50 PM PDT

Location: Port Alberni

Facilitator(s)

Suchavadee Ampaichitt

Senior International Student Advisor
University of Utah

Slides Handouts
Drew Dexter Dexter Ross, EdD

Director, International Student Advising
Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona

Handouts

Presentation Description: International students frequently ask DSO's and academic officials for official letters that they believe they require in regards to a variety of topics. Some common letter requests include late arrival letters, emergency visa appointments, the port of entry experience, employment verification, study plans, and much more.

This open meeting will discuss what letters institutions may or may not provide, what is actually required, best practices for letter templates and a discussion on how to turn these requests into electronic processes to lessen the workload of staff.

Learning Objectives:

Critically identify the needs of students versus the wants of students
Review current office practices and identify campus partners for additional support
Discuss best practices for creating and implementing institutional policies