Office of International Students and Scholars Oversees Immigration Compliance

Office of International Students and Scholars Makes International Community Feel at Home

April 24, 2023
Kyoko Tirado, M.A.
Kyoko Tirado, M.A.

Under the leadership of Kyoko Tirado, M.A., director of international advisement, the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) is responsible for handling immigration documentation for international students, faculty and researchers through the United States Department of Homeland Security Student and Exchange Visitor Information System.

What are the responsibilities of the OISS?
The OISS facilitates New York Medical College’s (NYMC) F-1 program for academics and J-1 program for exchange visitors to bring international students and scholars to our campus. We provide comprehensive information of the F-1 and J-1 program through in-person and Zoom sessions and year-round information sessions. We currently have 97 F-1 holders, students from 12 countries. Twenty-two of them have already graduated and are working on optional practical training, temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student's major area of study. We also have 24 J-1 holders, researchers from 13 countries.

Where is your new office location?
We are located at 19 Skyline Drive, GN-C18.

How would you describe the day-to-day functions of the OISS?
Our main tasks are to respond to inquiries, reach out for upcoming immigration related events and process document requests.

What do you find most interesting or most rewarding about working in the OISS?
It is most rewarding to see our international students and scholars move on to the next chapter of their lives after accomplishing what they set out to do at NYMC.

Is there a fun fact or best kept secret about OISS?
We enjoy meeting people from different parts of the worlds. This is the best way to “travel” without flying.

What is one tip you can give to students or faculty who work with or interact with the OISS?
Plan ahead. Immigration related processes take a long time. You should be thinking about your studies/career/life at least one year ahead.

Contact the OISS:

Kyoko Tirado
Director, International Advisement
Principal Designated School Official (SEVP F-1 program)
Responsible Officer (SEVP J-1 program)
19 Skyline Drive GN-C18
Hawthorne, NY 10532
(914) 594-2812

https://www.nymc.edu/current-students/student-services/office-of-international-students-and-scholars/