GENERAL

GSS Onboarding is a one-semester hybrid program designed to successfully transition international students to studying and living in the United States.

It consists of various online and in person workshops, and one-on-one advising sessions with the option to take courses in special topics to meet individual interests and needs for an additional fee. Students take the program in the comfort of their homes BEFORE arriving in the US and receive individualized support services on- and off-campus upon their arrival to the US. 

• Understand the process of adjusting to a new culture and develop strategies in order to better adapt to the challenges of living in a foreign environment.

• Understand academic expectations in the US and how they differ from those in the home country.

• Transition from academic, social, and psychological dependence on others to independence through guided support, engagement, and reflection.

• Become familiar with relevant requirements to maintain one's status and demonstrate satisfactory academic progress.

• Achieve a basic understanding of common legal situations that students will face regarding signing contracts, such as off-campus housing arrangements.

• Increase knowledge of self by exploring and reflecting on interests, values, habits, preferences, and goals.

• Explore the selection of majors by using knowledge of self, culture, and by using university and family resources.

GSS Onboarding is designed for international students who have already received an offer of graduate admission to Wake Forest University, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, North Carolina State University, and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Health Insurance and Immunizations

Understand health insurance rules and regulations as an international student, as well important immunization requirements well in advance. 

Travel Assistance & Welcome

Personalized support on important travel details: when, where, and how to arrive. Once you land, our friendly staff will be available to support you as you make your way to your new home.

Cellphone, Banking, and Newcomer Essentials

Be prepared with the basics! Sim card, US bank account and ID setup, and welcome package are available upon your arrival. 

Campus & Community Housing

Learn about local housing options that will meet your budget and living needs well in advance. Connect with both campus and community resources.

University Tools & Technology

Be ready for your first day of graduate school. Connect and learn about navigating key university technology and tools (e.g., Email, Office 365, COIN, MyCourses, etc.)

Program sign up for Fall 2023 starting May 1, 2023. Online workshops and individualized advising session start mid June.

$525   GSS Onboarding

GSS Onboarding  provides a jumpstart for students who are preparing to study in the US and we walk every step of the way with students from the moment they receive their graduate program offer. The program addresses the unique needs of incoming international students to ensure a successful start to their studies and living abroad. One on one advising sessions address individual needs by giving students the tools not only to adapt to US culture but to also to learn about themselves as individuals.

GSS Onboarding has three primary goals:

• Meet foundational needs of international undergraduate/graduate students before and upon arrival in the United States

• Provide personalized and hands-on support based on individual needs and interests of international students

• Connect students with campus and local resources to ensure a successful integration.

Please contact program staff by emailing gss-onboard@newmind.org

ABOUT NEW MIND

New Mind Education is an accredited post-secondary education institution based in Raleigh, Durham, and Greensboro, North Carolina. 

We partner with leading universities to help first-year international students make successful culture, academic, and language transitions. New Mind's flagship University Performance Program (UPP) is anchored in a research-informed curriculum and 1-on-1 advising, supporting universities partners ' mission to achieve holistic student success.

New Mind has been in operation since 2010 and was founded by Michael Chen, who has managed businesses in North America, Europe and East Asia, giving him keen insight into cross-cultural collaboration. As a graduate of UNC - Chapel Hill and NC State, Mr. Chen is deeply committed to the value of education and meeting the needs of international students where they are in order to inspire and cultivate global talent.

New Mind Education is accredited by Cognia (formerly Advanced ED).

1200+ Students Served

97% 1st Yr. Retention Rate (NC State)

3.62 Avg. 1st Yr. GPA (NC State)

NC State University, UNC Greensboro, UNC Chapel Hill, Wake Forest University, Duke University, UMASS Dartmouth, and the SUNY system.