Foreign National Committee (FNC)
The University of Pennsylvania has altogether around 800 postdocs working in various schools. Approximately 70% are foreign nationals. Since the issues, requirements and experiences relevant to foreign postdocs are significantly different from those who are US citizens or permanent residents; this committee is actively involved in promoting activities that will enhance training, relocation and social resources available to Foreign National postdocs. The main goal of this committee is to create a general awareness especially for the postdocs coming to US for the first time.
Some of the major activities of the FNC are:
- Organizing seminars on topics that are critical to foreign nationals
Annual Tax seminar informs all postdocs about issues regarding filing of taxes in the US. The talk is given by a tax professional from the University.
- Bi-annual Visa seminar is conducted by a professional immigration lawyer who explain all the details and latest developments regarding H1, J1 and other visas as well as requirements for Green Card.
- We would like to help postdocs adjust to life in the US and at the University
- We provide mentorship in the form of the "buddy trainer system"
- Postdocs can mail anyone in the council for any information or assistance
- We want postdocs to interact and establish networking amongst themselves
- We would like you to enjoy American holidays, sports and other social events
- Look for announcements about upcoming events where you can meet people and share your experiences
- Look for announcements about upcoming events where you can meet people and share your experiences
MINI-ORIENTATION FOR POST-DOCS
The Foreign National Committee organizes mini-orientations for postdocs on last Thursdays of every month. All postdocs are welcome to attend our mini-orientations, give inputs and share their experiences as postdocs at UPenn.
Apart from our activities we also welcome your input and encourage you to contact us at:
bpc.fnc@gmail.com
with any suggestions on how to improve the scientific and social life of foreign postdocs at the University of Pennsylvania.
Christopher Jang, Ph.D.
Perelman School of Medicine
Department of Neuroscience
cjang-at-mail.med.upenn.edu